The American Planning Association is committed to providing opportunities for all to achieve excellence in planning by fostering diversity and inclusion in the organization and planning profession. APA is committed to being responsive to changes in communities and the challenges being faced in achieving a just, equitable, and inclusive communities where the rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are achievable by all.
Diversity is an inclusive concept which encompasses, but is not limited to race, ethnicity, class, gender, age, sexuality, ability, educational attainment, spiritual beliefs, creed, culture, tribal affiliation, nationality, immigration status, political beliefs, and veteran status. With greater diversity, we can be more creative, effective and just, and bring more varied perspectives, experiences, backgrounds, talents, and interests to the practice of planning and to the communities we serve. We recognize that achieving diversity and inclusion is an evolutionary process that requires an ongoing renewal of our commitment.
APA Los Angeles is committed to implementing APA National’s Diversity and Inclusion Strategy in our local section. APA Los Angeles proactively addresses diversity and inclusion by working to ensure that our leadership, programming, and membership are as diverse as the people of Los Angeles County who we serve. This requires ongoing focus and attention and is not an intended outcome, but a consistent process.
Diversity and inclusion efforts by APA Los Angeles
- A Diversity Demographics Survey for past, present, and prospective members to allow APA Los Angeles to better understand the demographics of the planners we aim to serve
- Diversity and Inclusion Focus Groups to better understand how APA Los Angeles can adapt and address Diversity and Inclusion through the composition of our leadership, tailored membership outreach efforts, and the types of programs offered, and venues that offer better access to attendees from various backgrounds
To learn more about Diversity and Inclusion efforts by APA Los Angeles, or to contribute to those efforts, please contact equity@apalosangeles.org.
