Why does equity, diversity and inclusion matter?

Next week, UM’s THRIVE learning and wellness event will focus on helping UM faculty and staff thrive individually, professionally and organizationally. But it will do more than that too. Several sessions are designed to address advancing access, equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) at the UM.

It all starts with a special keynote address at noon on May 16 by Dr. Tina Chen, UM’s inaugural Executive Lead (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion). She will be speaking on the topic, “Why does equity, diversity and inclusion matter?”

All faculty and staff are encouraged to join in online at this important virtual event and learn more about how we can all share in making our community more welcoming, accessible and inclusive. Attend as a group and organize a follow-up team forum to discuss actions you can take to help.

This presentation will also be available after May 16 on the THRIVE page on UM Intranet for individuals or teams that could not attend.

Join the Zoom:

Read on for more EDI sessions available at this year’s event.

Learn how to harness the power of inclusion—and other EDI sessions during THRIVE

The Power of Inclusion, presented by Val Williams:

Let’s talk about the power of an inclusive culture where everyone is welcome, respected and valued for their unique contributions! Presenter Val Williams says, “I love this workshop, because I see others become enthusiastic about equity, diversity and inclusion which I see as core values of our university.”

What Does Reconciliation Have To Do With Me? presented by Cary Miller:

This workshop will explore the responsibilities of individual Canadians in the work of reconciliation with Indigenous people.  Topics will include the ongoing impacts of colonialism, upholding treaties as a collective civic responsibility, and what non-teaching units can do to engage in reconciliation in the work place.

Learning, Growing, Affirming: Fostering 2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusive Spaces, presented by Jay Cormack

This workshop will explore how to assess and address the environmental, language, and emotional dimensions of 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion in all settings. Resources for further learning will be shared, as well as practical considerations and takeaways to better foster inclusivity for everyone.  A resource list document is included as part of the workshop to further education on 2SLGBTQIA+ terminology, identities, and experiences.

See times and descriptions for these EDI  THRIVE sessions on UM Intranet.

Want more?

To learn more about, help advocate and help advance access, equity, diversity and inclusion at our university, join the EDI community of practice for monthly meetings that explore EDI best practices, invite guest speakers for specific topics of interest, and facilitate group discussion around difficult issues and adding skills. 

Take time to THRIVE  May 16 to 19: More info

THRIVE has been specially designed to give employees the chance to connect with colleagues across our campuses and discover new resources, tools and supports to enhance our work and to help us stay healthy.

With over 35 sessions to choose from, THRIVE sessions are offered in three streams scheduled from Monday, May 16 to Thursday, May 19: Living, Working and Leading. Sessions offered concurrently starting at 10:00 a.m. and ending at 3:00 p.m. Most will be held online, with select sessions taking place in-person.

Everyone is invited to attend as many sessions as possible during this fun week of events!

For those who can’t attend, check back at the THRIVE site on UM Intranet, or take a look at the session recordings channel, since many sessions will be recorded and can be watched later—even with your whole team.

Read more about this year’s THRIVE week.

See the complete list of THRIVE sessions on UM Intranet.  

Please note, registration is required for some sessions.

If you require an accessibility accommodation to participate in THRIVE, please contact UM [dot] Accommodation [at] umanitoba [dot] ca or 204-474-7195.