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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
​At Sustainable Stillwater MN, we recognize that environmental sustainability and social justice are deeply connected. Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Team works to bridge climate action with social justice, ensuring that all members of our community—regardless of background, identity, or experience—are heard, valued, and included in shaping a sustainable future.
Our Promised Commitment
Official DEI Statement:
Sustainable Stillwater MN is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. We strive to create a welcoming and safe environment where all voices are valued and equity is prioritized for lasting positive change.
Official Land Acknowledgment Statement:
Sustainable Stillwater MN acknowledges that we reside on the traditional and ancestral lands of the Dakhota and Ojibwe nations, as well as other Indigenous groups. We recognize the injustices Indigenous communities have faced, as well as their continued connection with this land. SSMN wishes to learn from their sustainable practices, and we pledge to actively ensure the protection and preservation of this land for future generations through similar, meaningful action.
2024 Accomplishments
In 2024, our DEI Team made significant progress in integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into our sustainability work. Each month, we incorporated DEI topics into board and project meetings, ensuring that discussions on equity remained a priority.
We worked to enhance accessibility at the Valley Eco Fair, breaking down barriers to participation and making sustainability more inclusive. The Fall Fundraiser Gala provided an opportunity to engage middle and high school students in eco-fashion initiatives, fostering creativity and awareness among youth. We actively participated in the United Way of Washington County DEI Task Force, strengthening our connections with broader community efforts.
Our social media presence celebrated diverse communities by recognizing Juneteenth, Black History Month, Pride Month, and other important cultural events. Additionally, we trained project leaders on using an equity lens in their initiatives and received acknowledgment from the City of Stillwater Human Rights Commission for our commitment to DEI. To deepen our collective understanding of systemic inequities, we hosted training sessions such as Unpacking Your Backpack of Unbiased Privilege.
Looking Ahead: 2025 DEI Priorities
As we move into 2025, our DEI Team remains committed to strengthening and expanding our efforts. Given the politicization of the term "DEI," we aim to shift our focus toward incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion as tangible actions rather than just terminology—ensuring that our mission remains unwavering.
We will continue to collaborate with the United Way of Washington County East DEI Committee, engaging an expert to guide our work through an evolving landscape. Additionally, we plan to meet with individuals who oppose DEI efforts to foster meaningful dialogue and understanding. To broaden leadership perspectives, we will recruit two new board members from diverse backgrounds and seek grant funding to support a DEI professional partnership with a local foundation.
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A key focus for 2025 is building climate-resilient communities by working with our Communications Team and local leaders to create a support network for organizations addressing climate resilience. Internally, we will review policies and procedures to ensure inclusivity, continue celebrating cultural holidays, highlight individuals making a difference, and deepen DEI-focused education and training. Integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into our events and work groups remains at the core of our mission as we strive for a just and sustainable future.
Get Involved
We believe that sustainability is for everyone. If you share our passion for climate justice, social equity, and inclusive community-building, we invite you to join us! Whether as a volunteer, supporter, or community partner, your voice matters in shaping a more just and sustainable future for Stillwater and beyond.
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To learn more or get involved, contact Ami Voeltz, SSMN's DEI Team Leader.