GENDER EQUITY PRINCIPLES: OFFICER*
Gender Equity principles have been updated:
Inclusive Culture: All officers confidently expect to be respected, treated equitably and valued, recognizing we are all made in the image of God.
Sample Actions:
- All officer names are listed alphabetically rather than male first.
- Ensure all policies are gender-neutral (e.g. mission partners), as opposed to only using the male pronoun.
Desired Outcome:
- Morale will be improved when everyone feels they are working within a fair and respectful system.
- Recruitment and retention of officers will increase when everyone feels valued.
- We are reflecting God's original design for shared leadership.
Unique Personhood: The Salvation Army considers each individual officer's unique callings, gifts, skills, passions etc. and provides opportunities in collaboration with officers regardless of gender or marital status.
Sample Actions:
- Consider each officer individually when appointing and developing officers.
- Work towards the elimination of default appointments.
- Each officer receives a job title and description.
- Split personnel expenses between married officers, rather than tethered to the male officer.
Desired Outcome:
- Productivity and a sense of mission will be improved if each officer is able to work from a place of giftedness, strength and passion.
- Recruitment and retention of officers will increase when everyone feels seen and esteemed.
Multiple Views Enrich Us: Both women's and men's voices are expected and acknowledged at all levels of leadership.
Sample Actions:
- Ensure equitable representation of female and male voices on all boards and committees.
- Offer intentional teaching and training opportunities to ensure everyone feels heard, valued and respected.
Desired Outcome:
- Having both women's and men's voices will improve complex decision-making, innovation and productivity.
*including active and officers-in-training (i.e., cadets)
**married and single
