Statement of Diversity and Inclusion

We believe that society thrives when diverse talents, experiences, perspectives, and cultures are welcomed and celebrated.

We envision a world where everyone, especially autistic individuals, can fully participate, contribute and succeed to their fullest potential. We believe in the inherent worth and dignity of all people, and are committed to respecting diversity of identity including neurodivergence, disability, ethnicity, race, religion, socioeconomic status, citizenship, gender identity or sexual orientation. As a part of the Duke community, we share the university’s core values – Respect, Trust, Inclusion, Diversity, and Excellence. More than aspirations, these core values shape the behaviors that we expect of ourselves and our colleagues.

We are committed to act with purpose and intention to:

  • Champion diversity by building a community of researchers, staff, and students who are as diverse as the community we serve.
  • Address the stigma autistic individuals face in society and collabroate with a wide range of stakeholders, including families and the autistic community, to understand and dismantle barriers.
  • Invite open, transparent dialogue among diverse voices and perspectives to shape impactful scientific research, clinical services, and educational opportunities.
  • Commit to equal and open access for all. We seek to provide our services, programs and research opportunities to all who could benefit, regardless of who they are or where they're from.
  • Advocate for an end to disparities in access to diagnosis, interventions and services, healthcare, and community supports in communities of color and in other marginalized communities.

It is with these commitments in mind that we stand in solidarity with those who promote human rights and who work peacefully to end systemic racism, ableism, and social injustices. We acknowledge these systems create unacceptable disparities in education, support, and services for autisti individuals, based on socio-economic factors, race and ethnicity. We pledge to continually celebrate and cultivate a diverse community, while working to ensure that every individual can reach his or her full potential, advocate for themselves, and live a life of meaning and purpose.