Values

The core values of The Institute of Cultural Affairs International motivate and define every aspect of our approach, mission, structure, and programs. We value:

  • Accountability. Responsibility and answerability for that to which we have committed.
  • Collaboration. Working together with like-minded partners to expand impact and share responsibility.
  • Communication. Open and direct sharing of experiences and information.
  • Comprehensiveness. Working with the whole system in any situation.
  • Consensus. Decisions made jointly, based upon collective wisdom.
  • Diversity. Respect for all peoples, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, color, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.
  • Equality. Equal treatment and equal opportunity for all peoples, in all situations.
  • Excellence. Utilizing our abilities and resources for optimum results.
  • Global Perspective. An international, multi-cultural context for decision-making and action.
  • Inherent human capacity. The innate ability and responsibility of every person to play a unique and vital role in human history.
  • Integrity. The consistency between what we say, do, and believe in all situations.
  • Intentionality. Making conscious choices and decisions, and placing emphasis where it will make the greatest difference.
  • Interconnectivity. The inherent interconnectedness and interdependency of all living things on Earth.
  • Justice. Fairness, balance, and ethically-grounded solutions.
  • Lifelong Learning. Persistently ask questions and pursue new knowledge and perspectives, recognizing the gifts of all generations.
  • Participation. The right of all peoples to function as protagonists of their lives, by playing a meaningful, effective role in the definition and shaping of their future.
  • Servant Leadership. Choosing to serve first, and then lead, as a way of expanding and deepening service and enabling others to do the same.
  • Sustainability. Solutions, structures, and resources that will last over time.
  • Transparency. Full, accurate, and timely disclosure of all information that affects others.