The Think Tank Diversity Action Statement is a grassroots, collaborative letter and list of recommendations written to increase diversity and inclusion in think tanks. This statement was written by a group of employees diverse in race, gender and political leaning from across the think tank community. It was reviewed by over 30 people working in or affiliated with think tanks, including senior leadership from Women of Color Advancing Peace and Security and the Diversity in National Security Network; think tank affiliates in the private sector; sociologists and academics; and junior, mid, and senior-level think tank staff in management, research, programmatic, and support functions.

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Written over a two month period, this statement and accompanying list of actionable recommendations is intended to set standards to keep think tanks accountable as a community, better develop a pipeline of diverse talent into the industry, and increase the integration of people of color and women, especially in positions of authority. The recommendations cover four areas: transparency, access, recruitment and retention, and individual accountability and action.

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Signatories at all levels, from think tank directors and presidents to junior-level staff, signed this statement in their personal capacity. Their signatures indicate support for the action items and sentiments expressed in the letter, and intent to support and pursue these changes at their organizations.

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The statement was published on August 23rd, 2020.