Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
I answered, of course, that I am no critic of skins; that I teach all who come to receive my instructions, and who conduct themselves in such a manner as to promote the ends of the institution; that I never can or will give way to this inhuman and infernal prejudice, — no, not for one hour!
If I am compelled to relinquish my situation here because I cannot sell myself to the skin-aristocrats to help them in heaping contempt upon those whom God loves as well as he does you and me, — why, then so be it, so be it
Frederick William Gunn
Working Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
Our continuous focus on moral character development intentionally engages all members of our school in the work of creating an inclusive and equitable living and learning ecosystem. Community and citizenship are at the heart of our aspiration to both social justice and academic excellence, with individual diversity integral to the strength of that community. When we embrace difference and pursue school life with respect, equity, and compassion, we prepare our students to be engaged citizens, as described in the school’s Character Statement.
In keeping with the tenets of our founder Frederick Gunn, who was himself a prominent abolitionist and progressive educator, The Frederick Gunn School seeks to provide a pluralistic learning environment for all inclusive of (but not limited to): culture, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, national origin, learning differences, physical difference, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic differences.
Our current working groups are comprised of:
- A working group of senior administrators and faculty led by the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, LaDarius Drew
- Board of Trustees Task Force Chaired by Omar Slowe '97
- Current student-led affinity groups such as the Black Student Union, Gender and Sexuality Alliance, and the Asian Student Association
Excerpt from Master of The Gunnery
Inaugural Report on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Head of School Thoughts on DEI Initiatives
