Inclusion and Opportunity (IO) is a core value of UIDM. As the largest student organization on campus, we believe it's our responsibility to use our platform to stand against harmful practices and systems of injustice, and to support ongoing learning around identity, perspective, and lived experience. As a group made up primarily of white students at a predominantly white institution, we are actively working to acknowledge our own advantages and the systems that shape our experiences.

Now in our 32nd year, the IO Committee is focused on helping our members grow, advocate, and lead with awareness and accountability, both within UIDM and in the broader campus community.

Each month, the Empowerment Team gathers for meetings that feature guest speakers and interactive activities. These sessions help team members build the skills and knowledge needed to champion IO values within their committees and while supporting dancers and families.

At UIDM, we understand and acknowledge that:

• People bring a wide range of backgrounds, identities, and perspectives shaped by factors such as race, gender, culture, ability, religion, finances, and more.
• Fairness means recognizing that not everyone begins with the same set of opportunities, and that addressing those imbalances requires thoughtful, ongoing work.
• A truly welcoming environment is one where every person feels respected, valued, and able to contribute fully, not just invited in, but supported to thrive.

Links to report and understand discrimination: This link has resources on campus in regards to sexual misconduct, bias, harassment, equity, and discrimination.