ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Feb. 17, 2023) – NCUA Chairman Todd M. Harper today participated in a panel discussion on diversity, equity, and inclusion within the credit union movement. The event was hosted by the African American Credit Union Coalition (AACUC) and titled Celebrating the Intersectionality of Icons in the Credit Union Industry. The panel was comprised of this year’s Wegner Award winners and AACUC Hall of Fame inductees.
“It’s an honor for me to be part of this panel of this year’s Wegner Award winners and AACUC Hall of Fame inductees,” Chairman Todd M. Harper said. “As the first openly gay man to lead a federal financial institutions regulatory agency, I strive to understand the importance of representation in an organization’s words and deeds. My experiences have taught me that working for diversity, equity, and inclusion is more effective when I am the strongest ally that I can be.”
During his remarks before the panel discussion, Chairman Harper stressed the importance of uniting in the cause for diversity, equity, inclusion, and allyship throughout the credit union system.
“Each and every one of us has the power to be that change agent, both in the credit union system and across the nation,” Harper said. “We can stamp out fear, hatred, and discrimination when we realize that we are all allies. It starts with one person, one voice, one gesture in support of others to get the ball rolling for a brighter future for all. In doing so, that inspiration lights the way for others to come forth and do the same. And, in doing so, we build momentum to reach a critical mass of support that can tip the scales toward sustained economic equity and justice. Seeing all the allies here who have led lives dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion makes me more optimistic about our chances for real and meaningful change.”
The African American Credit Union Coalition was created to increase the strength of the global credit union community. It is a non-profit organization of diverse, multicultural professionals and volunteers in the credit union industry. AACUC supports programs that offer benefits for African American credit union professionals and volunteers, credit unions, and credit union vendor partners.