Houston Eating Disorder Professionals (HEDS) is steadfast in our commitment to fostering a community that supports diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as fundamental principles of our organization. We recognize that eating disorders affect individuals from all walks of life, and it is our duty to ensure that our organization reflects and respects the full spectrum of human diversity.
Our Core Values:
1. Weight Inclusive Care: We oppose any form of weight bias within our organization and our field. We believe in providing compassionate and evidence-based care that prioritizes an individual’s health and well-being, irrespective of their size or appearance.
2. Inclusive Culture/Environment: We strive to create an inclusive culture and environment where every member feels safe, valued, and respected. We are committed to fostering a sense of belonging among all individuals, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, or any other dimension of diversity.
3. Anti-Discrimination: We stand firmly against discrimination in all its forms, including but not limited to discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
4. Amplifying Marginalized Voices: We recognize that marginalized voices are often underrepresented in the discourse surrounding eating disorders. We are dedicated to amplifying these voices, offering platforms for individuals from diverse backgrounds to share their experiences, insights, and expertise.
5. Increasing Member Representation: We acknowledge the importance of increasing the representation of underrepresented groups within our membership, leadership, and decision-making processes. We actively seek to diversify our organization to better reflect the populations we serve.
Through our collective efforts, we aspire to create a more just, equitable, and inclusive world where individuals affected by eating disorders can access compassionate care and support regardless of their background. We understand that the journey towards true DEI is ongoing, and we remain committed to continuous learning, growth, and action to uphold these values in all that we do.Together, we will work tirelessly to build a community that not only acknowledges the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion but actively embraces and celebrates them as pillars of our mission.