Disability as a Dimension of Diversity

Wheaton College is a Christian liberal arts institution committed to treating all individuals as equal image-bearers of Jesus Christ. As followers of Christ, we seek to reflect, value, and promote a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language. Consistent with the Scriptures, as well as Wheaton’s Community Covenant, Statement of Faith, and other policies, we believe that making a commitment to affirm diversity, practice inclusion, seek justice, and pursue unity is central to fulfilling the Great Commission, the Greatest Commandments, and our College Mission. We strive to cultivate a grace-filled, Christ-Centered academic community where all members are recognized, loved, and respected [Matthew 22:37-40 and 28:19-20; Revelation 7:9-10].

The Wheaton Center for Faith and Disability’s vision and mission, embraces and adheres to the Diversity Commitment as foundational. Below are segments from the full Diversity Commitment (linked below) with unique relevance to the work of the Wheaton Center for Faith and Disability. 

Diversity

To represent all members in the body of Christ who are uniquely, fearfully, and wonderfully made in the image of God. Diverse characteristics include ethnicity, sex, marital status, socioeconomic status, and the unique gifts of persons with disabilities [Genesis 1:26-28; Psalm 139:14; Galatians 3:28-29].

• Strengthen resources to improve educational and vocational experiences and outcomes for underrepresented students and students with disabilities [Psalm 10:17-18; Philippians 2:4].

Inclusion

To create a campus climate where all faculty, staff, students, and alumni are included as full participants who feel welcomed, respected, valued, and supported [James 2:1-4; Romans 15:7].

• Identify and transform attitudes and behaviors that allow the continuance of racism, classism, sexism, inequality, and division, while cultivating hospitable attitudes and behaviors campus-wide [Galatians 3:28; Galatians 2:11-13].
• To practice hospitality and create a sense of belonging for all members to ensure that no one is treated as an outsider or suffers exclusion [Leviticus 19:33-34; Acts 2:42-47]

Justice

To act for what is righteous, equitable, and fair in our shared life, academic programs, and campus administration [Psalm 89:14; Micah 6:8; Matthew 23:23; Luke 10:25-37].

• Listen to learn and understand the testimonies, stories, and experiences of others—especially those who have been marginalized—to build trust, connectedness, and community [1 Corinthians 12:26; Ephesians 2:14; Philippians 2:3-4].

Unity

To live and strive together in the Holy Spirit to become one in faith, affection and goals to fortify the Body of Christ [1 Corinthians 1:10; Ephesians 4:1-16; Psalm 133:1-3; John 17:20-23].

• Collaborate in scholarship and community to promote and cultivate a deep appreciation for diversity in worship, cultural expressions, and ways of knowing [Acts 2:8-11; Romans 14:6; Colossians 3:15-17].

Read the Wheaton College Diversity Commitment >

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