By: Jon Farrow
9 May, 2019
CIFAR supports diversity, endorses the Government of Canada’s Dimensions: Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Charter
May 9, 2019
CIFAR believes that diverse perspectives are essential to understanding and solving science and humanity’s most important questions.
CIFAR congratulates the Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Sport, and the Government of Canada on the launch of the Dimensions Pilot Program and the Dimensions: Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Canada Charter.
The program and charter, inspired by the UK’s Athena Swan program, encourages research institutions across the country to recognize that “equity, diversity and inclusion strengthen the research community, the quality, relevance and impact of research, and the opportunities for the full pool of potential participants.” By signing the charter, institutions agree to take concrete, measurable steps to increase equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI).
“The systemic barriers faced by women and other underrepresented groups in science do exist, and are not limited to research in the context of universities and colleges,” says Dr. Alan Bernstein, President & CEO of CIFAR. “We look forward to continuing our work with the Government of Canada together to further develop Canada’s role as a leading science nation; one that fosters equity, diversity and inclusion in advancing innovation and knowledge creation through targeted investments in breakthrough research.”
After an extensive consultation period to develop the charter, the program will be piloted in 25 universities and institutions of higher learning. While not part of the initial pilot, CIFAR welcomes the opportunity to play an active role in helping the research community progress towards the advancement of equity, diversity and inclusion and help drive deeper cultural change within the research ecosystem.
CIFAR is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. We recognize that bringing together individuals from multiple backgrounds, perspectives and experiences is integral to advancing excellence and increasing the impact of our organization. Ensuring that every person feels valued and welcome is vital to achieving our mission, and embodies our values of diversity, excellence, respect and collaboration. We are conducting a full review of CIFAR’s practices to develop a plan to advance equity, diversity and inclusion, in recognition of the importance of EDI to research excellence and impact.
For more information on CIFAR’s commitment to EDI, please contact:
Jon Farrow, Media Relations Specialist & Writer – jon.farrow@cifar.ca
Kate Geddie, Senior Director of Research and chair of CIFAR’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Working Group – kate.geddie@cifar.ca