Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at SFU: Fall term in review

With the Equity Compass as our guide, SFU continues to build a more equitable and inclusive community for all those who work, live, teach and learn here. Learn more about some of the important progress made throughout the past term.

Education and Capacity Building

EDI Community of Practice

In September, the EDI Community of Practice (CoPR) began their second year of work. Three smaller groups (“learning pods”) within the CoPr have been working to advance action areas identified as important by the university community: Training and Resources, Faculty Leadership Development and 2S/TGD (Two-Spirit, Trans, and Gender-Diverse). Gathering data from the learning pods for the developmental evaluation ensures that CoPR meets the learning needs of the community members.  

EDI Legislation

The university’s inaugural Accessibility Plan was launched in the fall of 2024, informed by the needs of students, faculty, staff and alumni with disabilities. Building on the foundation created by the Accessibility Committee and the feedback mechanism established in 2023, the plan outlines the systemic changes required to build a more inclusive SFU for all. The plan also ensures compliance with the Accessible British Columbia Act and leaves space to respond to provincial standards and community feedback in the coming years. 

Days of Significance 

These days were commemorated across SFU, among many others celebrated and observed by the university community this fall.

• National Day for Truth & Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day (Sept. 30)

• Islamic History Month (October)

• World Teachers Day (Oct. 5)

• International Day for Students (Nov. 17)

• National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women (Dec. 6)

• Human Rights Day (Dec. 10)

Employment, Pay Equity & Equity Data

Demographic and Diversity Data Survey

The Demographic and Diversity Data Survey was conducted from September to December 2024. The data gathered will help meet our regulatory requirements, support equitable and accountable programs and service delivery and measure progress towards our institutional priorities. Thank you to all who participated for helping to make SFU a better place to work, live, teach and learn!

Special Programs Hiring

Work to implement the approved Special Programs is well underway. Coordinated efforts between the Equity Office, People Strategies and Faculty Relations teams have led to the development of Special Programs recruitment and hiring pathways. An implementation plan is in progress to support faculties and departments with recruitment, onboarding, training and mentorship of the identified groups to ensure they can thrive in their roles in alignment with BC's Office of the Human Rights Commissioner (BCOHRC) requirements. These key elements are mandatory as part of the BCOHRC’s reporting requirements.