By the California State PTA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
At California State PTA, we believe every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) aren’t add-ons to our work; they are at the heart of who we are as a statewide family of volunteers. That’s why we’re proud to spotlight the National PTA Jan Harp Domene Diversity & Inclusion Awards—an inspiring opportunity for PTAs across California to celebrate what’s possible when communities come together to champion every child.
Who Was Jan Harp Domene—and Why This Matters
Named in honor of Jan Harp Domene, past California State PTA President and a transformative National PTA President, these awards uplift the PTAs and leaders who are building bridges, breaking down barriers, and ensuring all families have a voice. Jan’s legacy is one of courage, compassion, and conviction—she believed PTAs thrive when every culture, language, and perspective is welcomed at the table.
Jan Harp Domene wasn’t just a leader; she was a listener, a connector, and a relentless advocate for all children. Jan championed the importance of meaningful family engagement across cultural and linguistic differences. She modeled how to build trust with communities historically left out of decision-making and how to turn good intentions into inclusive practices that last.
What the Jan Harp Domene Awards Recognize
The awards bearing her name honor PTAs that embody values that are transforming school climates through inclusive programs, equitable policies, and authentic partnerships with families and students.
The Jan Harp Domene Diversity & Inclusion Awards celebrate PTAs and leaders who:
- Partner with families in culturally responsive ways (think multilingual communication, community liaisons, and welcoming spaces).
- Increase access to programs, leadership roles, and decision-making for underrepresented parents and caregivers.
- Create student-centered initiatives that uplift identity, belonging, and voice.
- Build sustainable inclusion practices, not just one-time events, into PTA culture.
- Use data, listen, and reflect to close participation gaps and improve outcomes for all students.
Why California PTAs Should Apply
California is home to one of the most diverse communities in the world. Our school families span hundreds of languages and cultures. When PTAs lead with inclusion, we don’t just increase attendance—we build belonging. Applying for the Jan Harp Domene Awards provides an opportunity to:
- Celebrate your volunteers and community partners who make your PTA welcoming and accessible.
- Share what’s working so other PTAs can replicate your success.
- Earn recognition that builds credibility with school and district leaders, potential funders, and new families considering membership.
- Inspire future leaders such as parents, caregivers, and students who will carry this work forward.
What Strong Applications Look Like
Ready to raise your hand? Here’s what strengthens an application:
- Clear goals with measurable impact: Did multilingual outreach increase participation? Did you diversify your board? Did your program reach families who weren’t engaged before?
- Student voice: How are students informing decisions, shaping programs, or leading initiatives?
- Collaboration: Partner with school staff, community organizations, and cultural leaders to widen your welcome.
- Accessibility: Transportation, childcare, translation/interpretation, hybrid events—show how you removed barriers.
- Sustainability: Share how you’ll maintain momentum beyond a single event or school year.
Real-World Examples to Spark Ideas
- Multilingual Welcome Series: Host a set of bilingual or trilingual “PTA 101” sessions led by parent ambassadors representing the languages spoken in your community. Provide interpretation, childcare, and food; co-create agendas based on family feedback.
- Cultural Heritage Family Night 2.0: Go beyond performances—set up resource stations staffed by counselors, community health partners, and district reps. Invite student leaders to curate storytelling circles that affirm identity and belonging.
- Inclusive Leadership Pathways: Create a mentorship program that pairs experienced PTA leaders with new parents and caregivers from underrepresented groups. Offer flexible roles, virtual participation options, and micro-volunteer tasks to widen access.
- Student Belonging Projects: Support student clubs and classes to lead projects—murals, podcasts, peer mentoring—that celebrate diversity and build connections across differences.
How Your DEI Committee Can Lead the Charge
California State PTA’s DEI Committee encourages every unit, council, and district PTA to make applying for this award part of your annual planning. Here’s a simple roadmap:
- Audit your welcome: Where and how do families encounter your PTA? Is your language inclusive? Are your meeting times and locations accessible? Who’s missing—and why?
- Set two bold, measurable goals: For example, “Increase participation of Spanish – and Vietnamese-speaking families at general meetings by 30%” or “Add two new board members representing underrepresented communities.”
- Resource your plan: Budget for interpretation, childcare, transportation vouchers, and food. These investments matter.
- Document as you go: Track attendance, collect surveys in multiple languages, and capture stories from families and students.
- Apply and amplify: Submit your application for the Jan Harp Domene Awards and share your journey with photos, quotes, and data.
A Living Tribute to Jan
When your PTA applies for the Jan Harp Domene Diversity & Inclusion Awards, you’re not just completing a form—you are advancing a movement Jan helped build. You’re saying to every child and family, “You belong here. Your voice matters. This PTA is your PTA.”
California PTAs lead with heart. Let’s also lead with action.
Ready to apply or learn more? Visit the National PTA page for the Jan Harp Domene Diversity and Inclusion Awards to learn more.