As we recently celebrated 2016 drawing to a close, we had no idea what 2017 would bring.  Last month's congress drew more than 550 delegates from 51 countries to New York.  Had the congress been held three weeks later, at least one of those delegates would not have been permitted in the country.  The values of diversity and inclusion are enshrined in ISPA's mission and operations.  As our membership has grown, so has its diversity - not only in terms of national origin but also with respect to: political and/or religious beliefs, gender identity, sexual orientation, socio-economic circumstances, race, age, and disability.

As I have written in earlier posts, recent world events promoting inward looking ideals and policies will not address the issues that are facing all nations and peoples.  Our problems are global and need to be addressed globally, not by single nation states.  Recent actions here in the US and indeed, around the world are not based on solutions to address issues but instead are about fear mongering, discrimination and bigotry.

ISPA will continue to embrace its world view and act accordingly to ensure participation by all.