Diversity is integral to CFAES’ mission of inclusiveness. To incorporate diversity into publications, include images of people from various racial/ethnic groups, people dressed in traditional attire, people with visible disabilities, people of various ages, and people of both sexes. While diversity is not limited to this list, these items are among the most visible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: To be frank, my audience is not diverse. Why should I show diversity in my materials?
A: Although visible diversity might not exist in an audience, this does not mean that materials cannot or should not reflect diversity. As CFAES continues to reach out to new and nontraditional audiences, reflecting diversity in college materials, publications, and websites is a way of increasing awareness of the wide variety of people and cultures in our world. It is also paramount to the college’s mission of inclusiveness.
Q: My organization is not very diverse. Are we pretending to be something we’re not by showing a diverse range of people in our communications and materials?
A: On the contrary, by showing a wide range of people in communications and materials, your organization is affirming its commitment to diversity. People need to see themselves reflected. Showing a wide range of diversity sends the message that although your organization might not be very diverse currently, it does recognize that diversity is an important element of quality programming.
Q: I only have room for one graphic. Does it have to show diversity?
A: Depending on the nature of the program, a graphic of an animal or a generic, modular stick figure might be more appropriate. Use your judgment. Evident, visible diversity need not be reflected on every publication; however, a problem becomes apparent when a wide number of exhibits, publications, and other materials—especially those presented at a single event—shows no diversity at all.
Q: I would like to show diversity, but I don’t have any resources from which to draw. Where can I find some?
A: Check out the CFAES Photo Library and the University Communications' Photo Gallery for diverse resources.