Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, Anti-Racism & Anti-Oppression

Preamble – Our Shared Understanding

CRCHC recognizes that there is systemically rooted power and privilege assigned to dominant groups in our society based on their gender, sexual orientation, race, economic status, language ability, religious preferences, age, size, and ability. As a result, we know that systemic oppression is affecting many of our clients, employees, and members of our community. This harm is perpetuated in through barriers across social systems including education, employment, housing, social services, and within our own health care system.

CRCHC acknowledges that differences in health outcomes can be traced to unequal economic and social conditions that are systemic and structural. These inequities are also influenced by systemic racism and oppression of cultural, religious, sexual and gender minorities.

CRCHC also recognizes that our employees may face barriers to equitable access benefits taken for granted by the privileged majority. This includes safe and inclusive workspaces, opportunities to have their ideas heard and advanced, promotions, and other job opportunities. 

Statement of Principles

• Diversity makes our community stronger.

  We ensure our voice and actions speak to social justice, human rights, and health equity.

  Each person in their uniqueness can experience a sense of belonging and acceptance in the community. To this end, all racist and oppressive behaviour must be challenged directly and respectfully as they arise.

  Many health disparities are rooted in fundamental social structural inequalities, which are inextricably related to racism and other forms of discrimination in society.

  Power and privilege are part of the social structures in which we all participate, and we are all at times advantaged or disadvantaged by these power imbalances.

  Oppression is manifested in racism, sexism, homophobia, heterosexism, transphobia, ageism, ableism, and other forms of social exclusion.

  Oppression is pervasive, restricting, hierarchical, and dominant.

  Every person in Ontario has a right to be free from racial discrimination and harassment in the social areas of employment, services, goods, facilities, housing accommodation, contracts and membership in trade and vocational associations.