Diversity, equity and inclusion report now available

This notice is from the archives of The Notice Board. Information contained in this notice was accurate at the time of publication but may no longer be so.

Over the course of the past year, the newly-established President’s Advisory Committee on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion has been working to assess the state of diversity, equity and inclusion on campus, its related policies, plans and initiatives, and how the U of L compares to other institutions – with the goal of producing recommendations for action.

We know from an increasing body of research that the barriers of discriminatory beliefs, attitudes, structures and systems found in broader society also exist in universities. Many universities across Canada are taking active steps to address these barriers to learning and working on their campuses. The University of Lethbridge has undertaken sporadic initiatives over the years though not, as yet, an extended, comprehensive approach. By establishing this committee in April 2018, their work is an initial step in the development of a long-term approach to addressing diversity, equity and inclusion at the U of L.

The University of Lethbridge strives to create a diverse and inclusive community where students, faculty and staff feel welcome, are treated equitably, and can thrive in their various endeavours. Achieving this requires intentional and systemic action.

Through the creation of policies, procedures, programs, events and interventions that work to eliminate barriers, the University seeks to establish the conditions that enable everyone to participate fully in campus life. As a place of research, teaching and learning, the full and equal participation of the widest diversity of people is crucial for excellence in creating and sharing knowledge.

As the report notes, “We serve society and ourselves when we create a university that respects everyone’s human rights and promotes diversity, equity and inclusion.”

The President’s Advisory Committee on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion conducted an inventory of current diversity, equity and inclusion-related policies, plans and initiatives throughout the University. It also sought to identify gaps between the University’s stated institutional commitments and those in the Universities Canada Inclusive Excellence Principles. Finally, a survey of nine comparable institutions was undertaken to form a best-practice template, and a series of recommendations were identified.

Read the entire report here: https://www.uleth.ca/president/equity-diversity-and-inclusion


Contact:

Mike Whipple | mike.whipple@uleth.ca | 403-329-2203 | uleth.ca/president