What is DEI?
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, or “DEI,” is a term used to describe the values, policies and approach of organizations and communities in respecting and embracing all members, and taking action when there is unfair, inequitable or harmful treatment of some.
DEI draws on policies, practices, knowledge sharing and culture to:
- Show respect for diverse backgrounds and perspectives, spanning ethnicity, gender identity or expression, language, physical and mental health, ability, race, religion, socioeconomic status, gender, age, and sexual orientation (diversity);
- Ensure everyone has fair opportunity to participate, contribute and succeed (equity); and,
- Create an environment in which everyone feels welcomed, supported, valued, like they belong, and that their voice is heard (inclusion).
Oxford County and Area Municipalities have a responsibility to create a culture within their organizations that counters racism and discriminatory behaviors and practices, and to establish a community that is safe, welcoming, and accessible for all citizens and that respects their dignity and independence.
What we are doing
A key responsibility of the DEI Action Coalition is to develop a robust Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy, including an Inclusion Charter, for all communities across Oxford County.
Community resources
An inclusive community is established by different people and groups working together. In Oxford County, there are many groups working together to support our shared DEI goals.
Brantford Regional Indigenous Support Centre - OFIFC
Domestic Abuse Services Oxford County
N'Amerind Friendship Centre (London) - OFIFC
Oxford County Accessibility Advisory Committee
South West Healthline: Ethnocultural Groups and Services
CES Oxford: Welcome to Oxford – Helping newcomers adjust to life in Oxford County
AODA free online Accessibility Training
Government of Ontario - Accessibility training modules
University of Alberta Open Online Course: Indigenous Canada
Project Implicit - Harvard - Implicit Association Test
Unconscious Bias Learning Module V.2 - Video generated with Synthesia
Ontario Human Rights Commission - Human Rights 101 3rd Edition (2020)
The following list of resources offer information and guidelines from provincial, federal and other agency resources. For a more detailed list or for specific information on DEI needs, resources or areas of study, please contact Oxford County’s DEI Officer at deioffice@oxfordcounty.ca or 519-539-9800 ext. 3002
Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
Disability Language Guide-Stanford
Government of Canada - Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan
Ontario's Education Equity Action Plan (2017)
Ontario Human Rights Commission - Policy on ableism and discrimination based on disability
Oxford County Library: Discover Diverse Perspectives
Resource Library for Inclusive Municipal Governance | Federation of Canadian Municipalities
The 519 Media Reference Guide Focus on: Pronouns 101
The 519 - Creating Authentic Spaces A Gender Identity & Gender Expression Toolkit
Contact:
Ayesha Sajid
Chair, DEI Action Coalition
Diversity Equity & Inclusion Officer, Oxford County
1-800-755-0394, ext. 3002
Email Ayesha Sajid