OCAD U receives federal funding to increase equity, diversity, inclusion among researchers

Thursday, May 9, 2019 - 1:45pm

OCAD University is reinforcing its commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) within research with a grant from the federal government. The university has received $384,700 in funding over two years as part of a new program aimed at helping universities and colleges make the research community more diverse. The pilot program, Dimensions: Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Canada, was launched today by the Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Sport.

The program aims to address systemic barriers, particularly those experienced by members of underrepresented or disadvantaged groups, including, but not limited to, women, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minority/racialized groups, and members of LGBTQ2+ communities.

OCAD U’s project, co-led by Robert Luke, Vice President, Research and Innovation and Amanda Hotrum, Director, Diversity, Equity & Sustainability Initiatives, is titled “Building Institutional Capacity for Research, Equity, Decolonization, Diversity & Inclusion (REDDI).” The project extends the EDI to include decolonization, a key priority of the university’s Academic Plan, Strategic Research Plan, and its commitment to social and academic innovation.

The REDDI project will produce curriculum and training for all faculty and staff on equity issues as it pertains to engaging in research activities. The project will create a more supportive and inclusive research environment for all equity-seeking groups, including Black, Indigenous and People of Colour, people with disabilities, women, the neurodiverse, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual, queer, questioning, and two-spirit.