Virginia Credit Union League Signs on to CU Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Collective Pledge

CONTACT:
Nicole Widell
Chief Engagement Officer
800.768.3344, ext. 604
nwidell@vacul.org

Lewis Wood
Vice President, Public Relations & Communication
800.768.3344, ext. 629
lwood@vacul.org

The Virginia Credit Union League Board of Directors has voted unanimously to sign the Credit Union Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Collective pledge, committing the League to meaningful and immediate action toward change by standing against racism and working to further social justice and financial democracy.

The CU DEI Collective believes diversity, equity and inclusion are fundamental to a vibrant, relevant and growing credit union movement.

“We need to be part of the solution in building a more equitable financial system,” noted League President Rick Pillow. “Credit unions were founded as a social movement dedicated to helping people achieve financial stability and improve their lives. Credit unions have remained committed to that mission and our hope is that this will continue to be important to credit unions across the Commonwealth.”

Signing the CU DEI Collective pledge is another significant step in the long-term commitment of the League and its Board of Directors to furthering DEI. Our efforts have included the support of organizations dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion, including the African American Credit Union Coalition and the Global Women’s Leadership Network; ensuring diversity on League Committees and taskforces; an annual scholarship to support African-American credit union professionals’ pursuit of professional development opportunities; and support for forums discussing social justice and DEI initiatives.

The pledge includes a call-to-action that centers on fighting racism, supporting system organizations devoted to social justice and financial democracy, and engaging in conversations to equip volunteers and staff to listen, serve and uplift members’ lives. It also outlines affirmative steps in reviewing and refining products and services, enriching talent, and engaging with communities and organizations working to improve the lives of our most marginalized members.

Learn more by visiting CUDEICollective.org.

About the League

The Virginia Credit Union League is the statewide trade association representing the 116 member-owned, not-for-profit credit unions headquartered in the Commonwealth. The League’s many services include regulatory, political and public advocacy; professional development; and a wide range of informational and operational resources. Organized in 1934, with offices in Richmond and Lynchburg, the League is the voice of Virginia’s credit unions and works to ensure a thriving credit union movement.