YMCA value statement on inclusion
Approved on 10 July 2018 at the 19th YMCA World Council in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Diversity around the globe was accepted in the founding document of the World Alliance of YMCAs in 1855, where it is stated that no issues, however important they may be, shall divide the YMCA.
The focus is on unity in Christ – “that they all may be one”.
Therefore – diversity and inclusion are core to the YMCA movement.
Therefore – the YMCA Movement is open and inclusive of all people regardless of their ability, age, culture, ethnicity, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation and social or economic background.
However, – we admit that we are not perfect in demonstrating God’s unconditional love, and that it is an ongoing process to become fully inclusive in order to improve our service to humanity.
Therefore – the YMCA Movement must strive courageously against any discriminatory behaviour, and it will always abide by the UN Human Rights Declaration.