TESOL DEIA Initiative

TESOL Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access Initiative

Utilizing recommendations from the TESOL Diverse Voices Task Force (DVTF), TESOL International Association launched an association-wide effort in the Summer 2021 to increase diversity, equity, inclusion, and access (DEIA) in all aspects of its governance and operations. 

What We Have Done

Updated code of conduct to encompass interaction on all platforms and channels and in-person locations with link to an incidence reporting form.  
Provided diversity training for convention reviewers and volunteer leaders.
Considered the demographics of our current volunteer leaders when selecting the 2024 slate.
Included land acknowledgement during opening convention general session.
Requiring new volunteer leaders and myTESOL members to acknowledge code of conduct.
Included global perspectives and resources in the advocacy portal.
Hosted webinars highlighting various cultures.
Organized a global panel during the Advocacy Summit.
Launched enhanced demographic information for members.
Provided DEIA training for Board, staff and volunteer leaders.
Increased outreach to diverse speakers.
DEIA criteria for the executive director search.
Launched inclusive welcome message.
Focused on inclusive invited presentations and presenters at our events.
Applied a DEIA lens and used a facilitator with DEIA expertise to develop TESOL's new strategic plan.
Encourage historically marginalized and under-represented groups to become TESOL leaders. 
Reviewed the TESOL awards to ensure they reflect our values and are inclusive of all.
Recruiting diverse writers and editors for TESOL publications.
Strengthened our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and access.
Established a new process for recruiting a more diverse pool of expert reviewers of TESOL Press book and product proposals.

What You Can Do

  • Educate yourself on diversity, equity, inclusion and access topics.
  • Be an advocate for under-represented groups and marginalized individuals.
  • Complete or update your profile to include demographic information.
  • Spread the word about TESOL's initiative and efforts.
  • Welcome everyone to TESOL, both in-person and online.

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