The Association Blog

Committed to a more just and equitable animal welfare profession? Then you’ll want to know Jasmin Robinson, who recently joined the team at The Association

The Association: Describe your role at The Association. What are some of your day-to-day responsibilities? 
Jasmin Robinson: I am a diversity, equity, and inclusion thought partner for The Association. My official title is Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Initiatives. My responsibilities are to direct and manage the implementation of DEI strategic plans; support the DEI Committee; develop, disseminate and update learning content and resources to client stakeholders; manage DEI training and facilitation, and manage DEI-related communications.

The Association: What’s the last television show you saw? 
Jasmin Robinson: Truth Be Told 

The Association: Please share a hidden (or not-so-hidden) talent. 
Jasmin Robinson: I enjoy cooking for my family and close friends. 

The Association: You can invite 5 people from all of history to dinner. Who’s at the table, and what are you eating? 
Jasmin Robinson: Toni Morrison, Aaliyah, bell hooks, Prince, and Whitney Houston. We’re eating whatever they want.

The Association: The DEI team has recently put out a call for nominations for the DEI Committee. Can you share a little about what the Committee will do, and what kind of candidates you are looking for? 
Jasmin Robinson: The committee will support The Association’s strategic plan to address diversity, equity, and inclusion. While candidates will vary in professional level and identities, I am equally excited to see folx with the bandwidth and emotional intelligence to continue the work of the current DEI Committee. 

In addition, I’m looking for members who regularly think about and ask hard questions related to equity and inclusion, understand their privilege, and actively seek to dismantle oppressive systems, and contribute to creating a psychologically safe environment in the animal welfare profession.   

The Association: As we move into Black History Month, what resource do you recommend for someone looking to deepen their understanding and knowledge of the history of Black people in the U.S.?  
Jasmin Robinson: I encourage people to visit their local libraries and ask about the literature that explains the multifaceted experiences of people from the Black Diaspora. 

The Association: What can shelters do to honor Black History Month in a meaningful way? 
Jasmin Robinson: I encourage shelters to review their data to see where inequities exist in the workplace. Who sits in leadership? What does the wage gap look like for Black professionals in the field? And identify proactive ways to address the results from the data. Lastly, I encourage shelters to be mindful of only celebrating Black excellence 28 (or 29) days out of the year. Honor your peers beyond February!

Learn More, Do More

Call for Nominations for the DEI Committee
Upcoming DEI Webinars