As we prioritize equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) at SFU and integrate it into our events, we should be making all planning decisions with an EDI lens. We must shift from performative to meaningful and specific action, while acknowledging that we will make mistakes along the way. We must commit to doing better, being open, and asking more questions as we continue to learn and move forward in a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive community.

This guide was created to help make SFU’s events inclusive and accessible to all. This list is not exhaustive, and we recognize its lengthiness. We do not expect you to accommodate each suggestion. Rather, we suggest that you use this guide as a tool to help you plan, integrate, and adapt your events to acknowledge EDI at SFU.

Equity is about fairness. Equity recognizes differences and takes those differences into account to ensure a fair outcome. This is different from equality, which is treating everyone the same. Equity recognizes that injustices have occurred and continue to occur, and involves removing barriers, biases, and obstacles that impede equal access and opportunity to succeed.

Diversity involves respect. Diversity is a respectful acknowledgement of the many ways in which we are different. At the heart of diversity is an invitation to learn more about different world views, philosophies, practices, and ways of being. It is about moving beyond simple tolerance to authentically engage the rich differences of each of us. It is about understanding each other.

Inclusion refers to belonging. When you belong, you are accepted for the unique traits that make you different from other people, and you accept others for theirs. This means that you do not have to change or hide parts of yourself to ‘fit in.’ You can be flexible in your approach to building relationships across differences – both to be yourself and to meet others as they are. Achieving inclusion is the shared responsibility of everyone.

For more information, visit SFU's Equity, Diversity and Inclusion page.

Each individual has needs to be met in order to attend an event. However, some of those needs aren’t always met in the typical planning process. Identifying and addressing barriers to participation is a way to ensure that everyone's needs are met.

Barriers to participating in events can include, but are not limited to:

• access to technology and/or funds
• physical access
• visual or hearing impairments
• language
• timing conflicts (time zones, scheduling, priorities, etc.)
• mental health and anxiety