Why Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)?

For generations, land use and urban development decisions and policies have contributed to community divisiveness and disparate economic and social outcomes for Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC). ULI Northwest recognizes the role that our industry and organization has played in promoting unjust land use policies and practices, and we are committed to making a change.

The power paradigm is shifting to include voices of BIPOC, people with disabilities, LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) individuals, women and other minorities, however there is still significant progress to be made. The inclusion of diverse populations in the real estate industry results in the development of stronger, more equitable, and thriving communities.  Recent events and a renewed focus on social justice have strengthened ULI Northwest’s resolve and cemented diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential forces in achieving our mission.

District Council leadership is committed to promoting and integrating DEI throughout all levels of the organization. We will implement inclusive ways of operating to welcome and include more people of color in our activities and the broader real estate industry. We will also scrutinize the policies, processes, and structures that may be unintentionally keeping BIPOC from fully participating in and having a voice in the real estate industry. Ultimately, by adopting DEI practices, we will strengthen the quality of our membership, encourage creativity, foster innovation, and facilitate the development of equitable communities in the Pacific Northwest.

Vision

Mission

Current Initiatives

DEI Committee: The Committees will expand on the work of ULI NW’s DEI Taskforce, a group of members that began meeting in May 2020 with a mission to blaze a new trail of diversity, equity, and inclusion in real estate that breaks down institutional barriers to entry and advancement for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).

Interested in joining our DEI Committee? Click here to learn more and apply. If you are not a ULI member and are interested in joining the committee, please email [email protected].

Leadership for Change: A webinar series based loosely on our Center for Leadership program, which will educate mid-career professionals in the history of racial injustice and land use in the Pacific Northwest and provide a space for reflection and personal growth. More information coming soon. Scholarships will be available for BIPOC professionals.

UrbanPlan in Portland: UrbanPlan is a realistic, engaging exercise in which participants—community leaders, university students, high school students, or public officials—learn about the fundamental forces that affect real estate development in our communities. ULI Northwest’s UrbanPlan will focus on reaching community members and students who have not historically participated in land use decisions.

Fee Waivers: ULI Northwest offers fee waivers to BIPOC professionals to join our local Product Councils; please email our team for more information.

National DEI Taskforce: In summer 2020, our staff participated in a national effort to make ULI a more diverse and inclusive organization. Working with ULI staff members from across the country, we provided recommendations to national ULI leadership to center equity throughout the organization. Read more about ULI’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts at the national level.

Interested in supporting our DEI efforts? Contact us!