Twenty projects promoting Equity, Diversity and Inclusion receive funding at the U of G

Twenty exciting projects and initiatives promoting equity and inclusion at the University of Guelph are receiving funding from the Office of Diversity and Human Rights. The $200,000 Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Enhancement Fund is an important commitment to building a strong culture of acceptance and belonging on all U of G campuses, outlined in the university’s Anti-Racism Action Plan.

“This fund provides vital assistance to students, faculty, and staff who are working hard to create equitable and welcoming environments for everyone at our university. I am so pleased the Office of Diversity and Human Rights is able to support, empower, and uplift the remarkable members of our community who are enhancing equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts at the U of G,” said Indira Naidoo-Harris, Associate Vice President, Diversity and Human Rights.

Some of the projects funded include student mentorship programs, an Indigenous lecture series, an accessibility-focused podcast, Black History Month celebrations and more.

“There is a deep commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion at the U of G.  It is inspiring to see so many members of our community dedicate their efforts to establishing acceptance and fairness on our campuses,” said Naidoo-Harris.

The next call for funding for the 2021-2022 academic year will be announced in the coming months, with details available on the Office of Diversity and Human Rights website.

The projects and initiatives funded in the 2020-2021 academic year include:

• An EDI audit of the College and Biological Science Graduate Programs
• An Anti-Bias & Inclusion Professional Book Study
• CORE Mentorship Program
• Enhancing Indigenous Research in the Biological Sciences
• Black History Month celebrations
• Anti-Racism Research Study
• A Virtual Exchange Partnership with Farm Radio International
• Four Cities of Love Concert
• Indigenous Art Installation and Welcome Signage
• Indigenous Scholars Lecture Series
• Strategic Planning for the Digital Accessibility Resource Centre
• Development of first-year curriculum for a Major/Minor in Sexualities, Genders, and Social Change
• Summer Undergraduate Research Experience
• OVC Pride VMC and OVC Diverse Speaker’s Night
• Social and Climate Justice Training Series
• BIPOC Student Mentorship Program Development
• iAM A Gryphon: Equity Arts Training and Empowerment Program
• HELD Magazine
• Indigenous Scholar Speaker Series
• Enhancing Accessible Education through Podcasting

The University of Guelphs’ Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Enhancement Fund is now accepting applications for the 2021-2022 academic year. For more information and the application form visit the Office of Diversity and Human Rights website.