ATA Decision Making Principles and Values

February, 2022

In the values below, the term “we” refers to KRI staff and to all trainers. We are all KRI.

We provide opportunities for input before major decisions are made.
We acknowledge when decisions are being made that may feel challenging to some.
We expose underlying patterns of hierarchy in our history that have privileged certain voices.
We are transparent about the history of our organization.

We demonstrate that we are listening carefully to voices different from ours.
We identify who has been most marginalized and make space to bring them in.
We actively refrain from privileging English-speakers and North American residents.
We actively recognize and celebrate how diversity makes us stronger.

We strive to eliminate all hierarchies except those based on skills and experience.
We show respect for all members of the ATA as peers.
We strive to place decision-making authority at the local level where possible.

We take the time necessary to move forward wisely.
We nurture and maintain our relationships among members of the ATA.
We make space for understanding the impact of trauma (especially sexual trauma) on survivors in our community.

We hold all Academy members accountable to the same standards
We ensure our trainings and communities are safe, especially for those most vulnerable.
We are accurate about the source of our teachings.

We support individuals in their self-actualization and personal growth.
We communicate about what we are learning through this current transformation process.
We create processes for ongoing evaluation of our decision-making outcomes and their impacts.
We invite members of the ATA to honor their own experiences and values related to Yogi Bhajan.

We support Trainers/members of the ATA in cultivating connective relationships with their students during this time of transformation.
We inquire deeply into the meaning of our spiritual teachings and their application.
We support Trainers/members of the ATA in learning about the impacts of trauma and applying this learning.
We evolve our teaching to reflect ongoing learning.
We don’t lose sight of our primary mission – which is uplifting Consciousness – in the midst of bureaucracy.