The community of UFV has identified inclusivity as one of our core values. We welcome everyone and show consideration and respect for all experiences and ideas. In 2017, we, along with other Canadian universities, committed to implementing seven inclusive excellence principles to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion. These principles include a commitment to develop an action plan and to integrating equity, diversity, and inclusivity into all that we do. This effort has been supported with a five-year action plan developed by Universities Canada.
In fall 2019, President MacLean formed a President's Task Force on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion to provide leadership in creating and fostering an environment that supports and creates best practices, policies, and pedagogy for EDI. The Task Force on EDI focuses on the identification and elimination of barriers blocking career advancement, recruitment, and retention of underrepresented groups in our organization. Over 40 faculty and staff responded to the call and a task force was formed with sixteen people selected to represent the UFV community.
Indigenization and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion:
Indigenization is much more than an equity initiative. We acknowledge it here because Indigenization shares some common principles with Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). Both Indigenization and EDI are concerned with equality, building relationships, and acknowledging the strengths of people. However, Indigenization goals are very specific to addressing the effects of colonialism, supporting Indigenous self-determination and well-being, and educating for reconciliation as defined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. EDI in its wider perspective, including a range of diversity signifiers, cultures, and initiatives is wholly supportive of Indigenization and its initiatives.
For more information, please email Christina Forcier at Christina.Forcier@ufv.ca.