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 (DEI) 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

To blaze a new trail of diversity, equity and inclusion in real estate that breaks down institutional barriers to entry and advancement within urban development.  By pairing education with deliberate action, the institute will pave the way for new and inclusive pathways, policies and practices in the real estate industry.

Mission

ULI Northwest provides leadership and education in responsible urban development to create thriving communities that are diverse, equitable and inclusive. ULI Northwest will blaze a new trail of diversity, equity and inclusion in real estate that breaks down institutional barriers to entry and advancement within land use and ownership.  By pairing education with deliberate action, ULI Northwest will pave the way for new and inclusive pathways, policies and practices in the real estate industry.

Current Initiatives

DEI Taskforce: ULI Northwest is proud to convene a group of diverse real estate professionals in the DEI Taskforce, whose mission is to set the stage for future DEI efforts for the District Council and the broader real estate community in the Pacific Northwest.

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 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!