Reduce inequality within and among countries
Research
Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Decolonization & Indigenous Research
The EDID Indigenous Research program at Western emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in research teams for greater innovation and problem-solving. The program promotes equitable practices and supports Indigenous research and faculty, fostering a respectful and inclusive research environment. Western Research collaborates with the community to advance Indigenous research methods and data, working towards reconciliation, decolonization, and Indigenization.
Enhancing Research on Social Inequality
The Centre for Research on Social Inequality (CRSI) is one of eight research centres within the Network for Economic and Social Trends in Western’s Faculty of Social Science. CRSI promotes and supports innovative research on social inequality by fostering multidisciplinary collaboration on projects and grants, disseminating findings to academics, policymakers, and the public, and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students. These efforts aim to deepen understanding and create impactful solutions to address social disparities.
Teaching
Anti-Racism Foundations Certificate Program
The Anti-Racism Foundations Certificate Program educates participants on the history and dimensions of racism in Canada, focusing on Indigenous Peoples, Black People, and People of Colour. It covers systemic barriers such as biases, stereotypes, and microaggressions. The program builds skills to become anti-racist allies and implements strategies to use privilege and power for creating equitable environments. Graduates will recognize the impact of racism, address implicit bias, and foster inclusivity.
EDI Workshops at Western
The Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) at Western offers various workshops for the campus community. These sessions aim to enhance awareness and equip participants with tools to practice allyship and understand EDI core values. Programs include “Learn at Lunch” workshops for staff and faculty, as well as student-only workshops, fostering a deeper commitment to equity and inclusion across the university.
Anti-Black Racism Education
Western’s Faculty of Education, as part of the Ontario Association of Deans of Education, has launched the Commitment to Anti-Black Racism Education and Black Inclusion in Ontario Higher Education. This initiative aims to dismantle anti-Black racist structures and promote Black scholarship, research, teaching, and learning. Guided by the Scarborough Charter’s principles of Black flourishing, inclusive excellence, mutuality, and accountability, Western Education calls on educators, students, and community partners to address anti-Black racism and celebrate Black excellence year-round.
Outreach
Western Pride: Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion
Western celebrates Pride with various events on campus and virtually, in conjunction with the London Pride Festival. Key activities include Wortley Pride, Western Alumni Pride Month in Toronto, Out at the Atrium, SOGS Rainbow Coffee Club, and the London Pride Fest and Parade. These events honor the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and allies, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion for all participants within the broader community.
Global Health Equity Hub at Western
The GHE @ Western hub connects people, events, research activities, educational opportunities, partnerships, and student organizations dedicated to Global Health Equity. Supported by the Vice-President of Research office, it provides a centralized platform for students, faculty, and community partners to access resources and get involved. The hub includes an archive of curated resources and a blog for reflections on the ethics and challenges of Global Health Equity work. This initiative underscores Western’s commitment to addressing health inequities and promoting health equity globally and locally.
Western Law Advocates for Accessible Air Travel
Western Law’s visiting professor David Lepofsky, along with faculty and students, is championing accessible air travel. Lepofsky, a disability rights advocate, led a group of students to the House of Commons to address accessibility issues in air travel. This experiential learning trip allowed students to engage in the legislative process and propose solutions for improving air travel for people with disabilities. This initiative not only advocates for policy changes but also enriches students' practical skills and understanding of social advocacy in legal education.
Western visiting research professor David Lepofsky brought students to the House of Commons, where he was presenting to a standing committee, as part of an experiential learning trip. (L to R, top) Mikaela Cheslock, Matthew Wronko, Sabrina Gunter; (L to R, bottom) Chloe Holmes, Meghan Hawa, professor Lepofsky.
Operations
Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
The Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) at Western aims to create a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive community by promoting, recognizing, and celebrating diverse voices on campus. The Western Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (WIDE) Survey, updated by the EDI Data Working Group, reflects this commitment. Planning for Western’s EDI Strategic Plan is actively underway, as outlined in “Towards Western at 150", to foster a more just society. Additionally, the EDI PULSE Newsletter keeps the community informed about EDI news, supports, and events.
Commitment to Barrier-Free Accessibility
Western is dedicated to achieving barrier-free accessibility for persons with disabilities who study, visit, or work on campus. A variety of services, groups, and committees are devoted to promoting accessibility and ensuring equitable access to all services and facilities. Efforts include welcoming service animals trained to assist people with disabilities, renovating older buildings for better accessibility, and enhancing campus walkways to provide the best experience for all community members.
Office of Indigenous Initiatives
Western’s Office of Indigenous Initiatives, led by the Vice-Provost & Associate Vice-President (Indigenous Initiatives), drives systemic change for Truth and Reconciliation and equitable outcomes for Indigenous Peoples. It focuses on relationship-building with Indigenous communities and fostering an inclusive academic environment. Key areas include strategic planning, community engagement, policy development, curriculum and training, recruitment strategies, and research, all aimed at implementing Western’s Indigenous Strategic Plan and creating a welcoming university atmosphere.
