Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At Lan Su Chinese Garden, our mission is to cultivate an oasis of tranquil beauty and harmony to inspire, engage, and educate our global community in the appreciation of a richly authentic Chinese culture. This mission drives our daily activities and interactions, creating a welcoming environment for all.

Our vision is to see a world where people of all backgrounds are valued; all cultures are celebrated; and community members have a deeper, more immersive world view. Educating people about Chinese culture is central to this vision. By fostering cultural appreciation and understanding, we are actively building a community.

Why We Teach About Other Cultures

Understanding and appreciating different cultures is vital for fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

1. Learning about diverse cultures helps individuals develop the skills and knowledge needed to interact in a multicultural environment. This competence is essential for fostering mutual respect and understanding among people from different backgrounds.
2. Education about other cultures challenges stereotypes and reduces prejudices. It encourages people to see beyond simplistic or biased views, fostering a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of others. Educating people about different cultures broadens their perspectives and helps them understand the global context of local issues, enhancing their ability to engage with the world in meaningful ways.
3. Understanding and celebrating the traditions, values, and histories of different cultures promotes empathy and respect. It allows individuals to appreciate the richness and diversity of human experiences, leading to more compassionate interactions.

Cultural attire from AANHPI Heritage Month “Threading Together” exhibits

Key Commitments

• We ensure that diverse cultural narratives are represented and respected in our programming. Through education about Chinese culture, we enhance mutual respect and cultural awareness, laying the foundation for a more inclusive community.
• We strive to make our garden a place where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and part of a larger, inclusive community.
• Transparency and accountability are core to our ethos. We invite community input, ensuring that our actions consistently reflect our values.
• We celebrate the diversity within Chinese and AANHPI cultures, creating an environment where kindness and respect are paramount.

We hold ourselves accountable to:

1. Curate and present programs that highlight the diversity within Chinese and AANHPI cultures and their contemporary relevance.
2. Develop partnerships and initiatives that support active involvement from underrepresented groups.
3. Implement programs to reduce economic and physical barriers, ensuring Lan Su is accessible to all.
4. Foster ongoing conversations about cultural heritage, equity, and inclusion within our community and beyond.

At Lan Su Chinese Garden, we believe in the power of learning, kindness and wonder to inspire our community. Through continuous education and celebration of diverse cultures, we are fostering a deeper understanding of what it means to be in a community. By embracing kindness, we create a welcoming environment. The wonder of Lan Su promotes new ways of looking at the world.