RFF’s Vision for a Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive Future

RFF is committed to being the most widely trusted source of research insights and policy solutions leading to a healthy environment and a thriving economy. Our position as a source of high-quality, innovative research and policy engagement relies on a skilled, diverse workforce and an inclusive, respectful environment. People are RFF’s greatest asset. We value the unique contributions of each member of RFF’s community, and we realize that success comes through teamwork where each individual contributes to our mission.

We commit to fostering an environment that empowers everyone at RFF to thrive. We have a collective responsibility to serve the public good, and RFF’s unique mission guides us in making the positive change we need to see in the world.

RFF is committed to being a diverse community that values all kinds of people with both obvious and subtle differences, including but not limited to age, race, ethnicity, national origin, color, socioeconomic status, gender, physical ability, cognitive diversity, religion, sexual orientation, political affiliation, and personal background. The diversity of the broader public is reflected in our staff, in our leadership, and in the constituencies that we engage. No one is expected to represent the viewpoint of an entire group.

RFF is committed to being an equitable workplace, where colleagues from all parts of the organization work to eliminate systemic barriers. Every member of the RFF community has the support they need to grow, find opportunities, and develop professionally, and no one encounters an obstacle to doing their own work that is not addressed. Colleagues interact first and foremost from a position of mutual respect and positive intent, such that everyone is and feels valued. We hold ourselves and one another to the highest professional and ethical standards and prioritize honesty, transparency, and fairness in sharing access to information and resources.

RFF is committed to being an inclusive environment. Varied backgrounds are respected and actively invited into organizational processes, resulting in innovative, relevant, and high-quality work. Everyone is engaged and knows they have a stake in RFF’s future. No one is or feels overlooked, and no perspective in the community is ignored. Everyone at RFF advocates for one another, especially if they have a position of leadership—active allies foster a safe and productive space for everyone. Members of the RFF community recognize their own privilege and everyone is accountable for overcoming stereotypes, biases, and their consequences.

RFF’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is essential to achieving our mission—and it is simply the right thing to do. It strengthens our organization, allows us to reach a broader audience, and positively impacts the greater community. Achieving these ideals takes a sustained team effort, requiring dedicated resources and investment in people. We commit to continually setting and operationalizing explicit, specific, and achievable goals; adopting timelines and deadlines; monitoring our progress; and reevaluating our vision and goals. We recognize that this is an ongoing journey that requires vigilance in a constantly changing workplace and world.