The concept of diversity in the context of equity refers to the array of identities that make up our communities. Diversity can refer to the dimensions of race, ethnicity, cultural background, gender expression, sexual orientation, ability, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs, or other possible ideologies. We all come to a space informed by our own upbringing, personalities, and experiences, and these perspectives can vary significantly depending on our identity. That coming together, exchange, and sharing enhances diversity.
When we talk about diversity in a social context, it’s crucial to consider our differences and our similarities. This can help reveal the voices and viewpoints that are foregrounded, and those less prevalent (maybe even absent). Valuing and promoting diversity requires us to take steps to increase representation of all social groups among our student, faculty, and staff populations. It also calls upon us to establish processes and resources to support those who self-identify as members of underrepresented groups. Finally, a meaningful commitment to diversity in a university requires us to ensure that diverse perspectives and experiences are taken into account in decision-making and planning that affect academic life.
By striving for each of these measures at McGill, we commit to diversity not only in our numbers, but also in terms of qualitative experience, authority, and responsibility. The promise of promoting diversity in this way is well recognized in the literature which shows how .
It’s important to think of diversity as uniting rather than dividing. Diversity means appreciating our differences and interconnectedness, recognizing systemic and institutionalized discrimination, and building relationships across our differences. That can be challenging, but it’s worth it. The equity team in the Office of the Provost is there to help campus efforts in that regard. Further, while appreciating social difference is important, a commitment to diversity should prompt us also to acknowledge all the things that connect us. At McGill, our Principles are meant to define our shared commitment and mission to the search, advancement, and application of knowledge. So, while we’re not all the same and we each have differing levels of privilege, advantage, and adversity, working to identify our commonalities can foster pride and solidarity within our campus communities.