The Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies (AABB) believes that all people should have the support they need to succeed in a respectful, fair and equitable environment. AABB is committed to our staff, members and the community in embracing Respect, Inclusion, Support and Engagement (RISE). AABB's RISE Action Plan represents our Association’s commitment to these values.
In today's climate certain words can be misunderstood and targeted in ways that can distract and derail from the purpose of our efforts. So, to ensure our focus remains on the inclusion work itself - creating space for every voice to be heard and every member to thrive - we chose a new name for our inclusion values.
Although the terms we use have changed, the Association's commitment to fostering an inclusive, welcoming and respectful community remains unchanged.
AABB's vision, mission, purpose and core values are dependent on the engagement of our global community, which values respect, inclusion and support for all. Our RISE Action Plan provides an initial road map to embrace these values within our workforce and community, with scalable actions toward specific goals and anticipated outcomes. This RISE Action Plan is not intended to be static, but to undergo continual review as we learn and evolve in this space and receive feedback and input from the community, with modifications and updates to be made as needed.
To embrace RISE as an essential value supporting AABB's mission and vision, AABB's RISE goals require tactical action. While activities have already been implemented, action must be consistently implemented throughout the Association. This will require the incorporation of RISE goals into current policies and procedures. It is understood that tactical approaches may require iterations to successfully achieve these goals. Read about our RISE Goals here.
Provide a safe, welcoming environment and cultivate an inclusive culture that respects and supports the contributions of everyone.
Invest in and integrate Respect, Inclusion, Support, Engagement in all aspects of the Association (including through volunteer leadership roles, awards, content and education), and promote pay equity and workforce recruitment and retention practices that consider Respect, Inclusion, Support, Engagement.
Increase inclusive representation among top leadership ranks and recognize individual achievements.
Advocate for more health care research and policies to overcome inequities.
AABB provides an environment in which all members and staff are welcomed and supported, and their perspectives and contributions are sought out and valued.
AABB recruits and engages an ever-more-inclusive membership and equips individuals with the support and opportunities necessary for their professional success.
AABB is vigilant in ensuring that Respect, Inclusion, Support and Engagement are foundational values of our educational program offerings.
AABB increases awareness and recognition of contributions to the profession by underrepresented diverse populations.
Respect refers to the recognition and appreciation of the unique identities, backgrounds, abilities, and perspectives that individuals bring to a group. It encompasses the collective strength found in varied experiences, beliefs, values, and skills, and affirms the importance of each person's contribution.
Inclusion reflects a culture and environment where individuals feel a genuine sense of belonging. It is demonstrated through practices that ensure everyone is valued, accepted, and encouraged to participate fully. Inclusion also involves creating equitable systems - through policies and procedures - that provide fair access to opportunities, resources, and information.
Support acknowledges the need to address and correct historical and systemic barriers that have limited access to opportunities. It involves actively challenging bias, discrimination, and harassment, and promoting actions that foster fairness. A supportive environment ensures individuals can fully participate and thrive, both personally and professionally.
Engagement refers to the freedom and ability to participate meaningfully - whether through communication, collaboration, or access to spaces and resources. It ensures individuals can connect, contribute, and benefit from shared experiences and opportunities.
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