Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The WI was founded on democratic ideals over 100 years ago and this commitment to equality is still central to our ethos today. The WI is an inclusive, supportive and progressive organisation for all women with a diverse membership of over 200,000 members.
The WI is open to all women. It welcomes and celebrates a diverse cross-section of women, offering a space where they can be themselves surrounded by other supportive women.
We do not ask members any personal questions as part of the joining process and are committed to ensuring all members are treated fairly and equally whatever their background or individual circumstances, with equal access to all opportunities on a national and local level.
What is equality?
Equality is the state of being equal, especially in status, rights and opportunity. Practically, this means ensuring all women have an equal opportunity to join the WI and participate as a member.
What is diversity?
Diversity is understanding that each woman is unique and recognising our individual differences. For the WI, this means celebrating the diversity of our members, recognising differences and embracing these differences to inspire, educate, campaign and fundraise.
What is inclusion?
Inclusion is a basic right and its objective should be to embrace everyone regardless of individual differences. For the WI, this means creating a welcoming and friendly environment where every member is included.
Transgender members
Transgender women are welcome to join the WI and to participate in any WI activities in the same way as any other woman. The WI provides women with educational opportunities and the platform to campaign on issues that matter to them and their communities whilst always celebrating what it means to be a woman. Therefore, welcoming transgender women to the WI builds on our ambitions and enriches our membership to ensure we are a place for all women to celebrate who they are and influence positive change in their communities.