By NPCA DEIA Committee
Each October, Global Diversity Awareness Month invites us to reflect on the rich tapestry of cultures, perspectives, and identities that shape our world—and our Peace Corps community. For the National Peace Corps Association (NPCA), this month is a powerful reminder of our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, both in principle and in practice.
As returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs), we have witnessed firsthand the beauty of global cultures and the transformative power of cross-cultural exchange. Global Diversity Awareness Month challenges us to bring those lessons home—to listen deeply, uplift underrepresented voices, and foster belonging across lines of race, ethnicity, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, and more.
This month, we honor the many RPCVs whose identities and experiences have historically been marginalized, yet who continue to lead and serve with courage. From the trailblazing service of LGBTQ+ Volunteers and Volunteers of color, to the leadership of Deaf and disabled RPCVs, our community is stronger because of its diversity.
NPCA’s DEIA efforts aim to make the Peace Corps experience more inclusive from recruitment to reentry. Whether through advocacy for accessible service, supporting affinity groups, or organizing inclusive programming like the Peace Corps Connect conference, we are working to ensure all Volunteers—past, present, and future—see themselves reflected and valued.
We invite you to celebrate this month by learning more about cultures different from your own, engaging with your local RPCV groups, or sharing your own story. Let’s continue building a more inclusive Peace Corps community—one where diversity is not only recognized, but embraced as essential to global peace and friendship.
Together, we are many voices, one mission.