The American Library Association (ALA) continually strives to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all. At a council meeting on June 26, the ALA passed resolutions to further this mission by advancing efforts toward greater diversity, inclusion and equity.
The Resolution to Honor African Americans Who Fought Library Segregation resolved, on behalf of ALA members, to: acknowledge these injustices; apologize to African Americans for the wrongs committed against them in segregated public libraries; commend those who risked their lives to integrate public libraries; and ensure that Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) principles are reflected throughout all libraries.
Additionally, through the Resolution on Gender Inclusive Bathrooms at ALA Conferences and Meetings the ALA will seek to provide a sufficient mix of gender inclusive and gender specific bathrooms at future conferences. As well as require that convention center staff honor ALA policies on gender-inclusive facilities and requests that all attendees be treated with dignity and respect.
As the ALA’s association management partner, MHQ applauds the organization on its efforts to further diversity, inclusion and equity and will work to ensure these standards are met at future conferences and events.
