In 2022, HBHL conducted an online survey focused on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). This survey, a sequel to the inaugural 2020 climate survey, aimed to gauge the current state of EDI within the HBHL community. The primary objective was to foster transparency and inform HBHL's ongoing EDI strategy.
Methodology
The survey was designed to ensure anonymity, encouraging candid participation. It encompassed various components, including identification of the respondents' roles within HBHL, demographic self-identification and a series of agreement-scale questions addressing the sense of inclusion, support and access. Additionally, it delved into experiences and observations of harassment and discrimination within the McGill environment.
Respondent Profile
The survey was completed by 274 individuals, comprising 39% trainees, 28% faculty, 27% staff and 6% in other roles. Notably, a significant proportion of respondents identified as members of one or more McGill Designated Equity Groups.
Key Findings
- Inclusion Sentiment: The majority felt included in various environments, but a lower sense of inclusion was noted among members of equity-seeking group, those with recent health conditions and primary caregivers.
- Access to Opportunities: Responses indicated disparities in perceived access to training and advancement opportunities, influenced by demographic and personal factors.
Comparative Insights
Compared to the 2020 survey, results from the 2022 survey showed a nuanced shift in perceptions and experiences regarding EDI.
- Notably, there was a decrease in the overall sense of inclusion and access to opportunities among certain groups, particularly among members of equity-seeking groups and those with recent health conditions.
- The proportion of respondents feeling included in their lab or office space, research institute and the broader McGill community showed a slight decline.
- Access to training and advancement opportunities also saw varied perceptions, with some groups reporting a decrease in perceived equality of access compared to 2020.
Conclusion and Implications
These findings highlight the evolving nature of EDI within the brain health research community at McGill and underscore the need for ongoing assessment and targeted improvement strategies. The insights will guide HBHL’s actions and initiatives in the implementation of its EDI Action Plan over the final years of its mandate. We also hope that this report will provide units and departments at McGill with useful information in their own work to foster a diverse and inclusive environment.
