An Update on ATA’s Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (JEDI) Work
Each year, all ATA employees set goals to transform our workplace, programs, and the fields of travel and international education to be more just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive. We came together to share our progress at an annual review.
What We Accomplished In 2023
Actions to Transform our Workplace
- We created a paid part-time JEDI Coordinator position.
- We conducted two company-wide pulse check surveys to take stock of how we were adjusting to a reduced-hour workweek and gauge our employees’ sense of belonging.
- We strategically revitalized our mentorship program and elevated our diversity recruiting strategies.
Actions to Transform our Programs
- We updated our company style guide to encourage consistent usage of thoughtful, inclusive language across all teams, websites, and materials.
- We highlighted underrepresented cultures and communities on several trips. Some examples include a culinary trip to France that included the contribution of immigrant communities and new Cuba programs that center the voices and lived experiences of Cubans with particular attention to a younger generation of women entrepreneurs.
- CET Academic Programs continued its Curriculum Review Project that incorporates JEDI concepts into students’ curriculum by identifying and expanding frameworks for difference, power, and equity.
- CET removed unnecessary barriers in its application process and encouraged a wider range of students to apply to study abroad programs.
Actions to Transform our Fields (Travel and International Education)
- We prioritized The Fund for Education Abroad (FEA) as our main philanthropic recipient.
- We supported Tourism Cares’ Diversity in Tourism Fund.
- We worked with several tech vendors to implement the use of gender-inclusive salutations and language on their platforms.
Planning for 2024
Here are some initiatives and goals we are working on in 2024.
Actions to Transform our Workplace
- Increase employee engagement to ensure we are promoting inclusive and welcoming spaces for both U.S.-based and onsite-based staff.
- Promote JEDI-related professional development opportunities.
Actions to Transform our Programs
- Tackle website accessibility to increase compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act and Web Consortium Accessibility Group standards.
- Improve student recruitment methods at CET. Build relationships with Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) and strategically extend our outreach to university multicultural centers.
- Identify gaps in onsite staff JEDI knowledge and implement necessary training.
Actions to Transform our Fields (Travel and International Education)
- Critically assess the JEDI and sustainability goals of vendors we work with.
- Launch a formal volunteer relationship with our long-time philanthropy recipient, Fund for Education Abroad (FEA).
If you’re interested in a full summary of our work, please email us.
