Wikipedia defines DEI as: “a conceptual framework that seeks to promote the fair treatment and full participation of all people, especially in the workplace, including populations who have historically been under-represented or subject to discrimination because of their background, identity, disability, etc.”

While the SCA is not a workplace by this definition, we are a large, diverse and interesting society, with people from all backgrounds, ethnicities, genders and more. This, I feel, is what makes us so great as a group. Everyone is different, everyone has something to offer, and everyone has the chance to learn more about themselves and others in a welcoming environment.

That said, we cannot erase the fact that in the past, various cultures, identities, genders and even sexualities have been discriminated against, both in the mundane world and in the Society. Some of this is due to educational failing, which is not usually intentional. Some of this is due to not being able to access proper materials and research. Some of it is just plain ignorance, with some people not wanting to further better themselves. And even occasionally, this is due to malice, where one says things with the intention of hurting someone.

I have been very lucky- in my barony and kingdom, I have never felt threatened, unsafe, or discriminated against. In fact, I could even say that I know without a doubt that the Outlands has been nothing but welcoming and kind to me, and others like me -regardless of where we fall in the diversity umbrella.

There are always chances to improve, learn, and be better as a whole – and that’s where I come in. My job is to continue to help foster a welcoming and safe environment for anyone – those who have been playing for years and years, and those who have just joined us for their first event ever. But I can’t do it alone!

If your group (whether its a shire, canton, college or barony) has a DEI officer, please have them contact me at dei@outlands.org, so that we can get them warranted as ‘my’ deputies. I can also be reached at the phone number listed below. If you are wanting to become the DEI officer/representative for your group, please have your seneschal contact me as well.

Finally, we will also be creating a kingdom wide committee that will assist myself and the other officers in building and fostering DEI in the Outlands. If you are interested in this, please email me with “DEI Committee” in the subject line, and a few lines about why you would like to join.

For either cause, you can also find me on Facebook as Christian AG Brillante, on Discord at deserttransman#2272, or via text/phone at 575-312-6683 (please no calls or texts after 10 pm).

Thank you for reading this rather long missive, and please feel free to reach out to me even if it’s to chat! I am here to serve you, the kingdom and populace. I look forward to where we will go in the future!