Equity and Inclusion Principles

To ensure that everyone in our department community has a rewarding and fulfilling experience (both professionally and personally), all members of the Applied Mathematics Department are expected to engage in co-creating and maintaining an inclusive culture where we all feel that we belong. Satisfying, high-quality scholarship is supported by a community environment in which all members feel safe, secure, and supported. All members of our departmental community are expected to conform to the guidelines provided by University of Waterloo policies that govern employment and study (in particular the policies on Ethical behaviour, Health, safety, and environment, Gender-based and sexual violence alleged against students, and Student discipline). In addition, members of the Faculty of Mathematics are guided by our Equity and Inclusive Communities Principles. We highlight the following principles:

Members of our departmental community are expected to contribute to a positive experience for everyone, regardless of identity, including: gender identity or gender expression, 2SLGBTQIA+ status, racialization or ethnicity, immigration/citizenship status, ability status, faith, marital or family status, socioeconomic status, age, physical appearance, and/or identity as a First Nation, Metis or Inuit person. Diversity has implicit benefits. Put simply, the greater the mix of people, the greater the mix of skills, experiences, perspectives, and ideas we can collectively draw on. These benefits cannot be fully achieved without creating an inclusive environment.

To maintain an environment of respectful collaboration and open inquiry, all communication (electronic or in person) should be courteous and considerate of people across cultural backgrounds. Inappropriate sexual language and imagery are not acceptable at any time. Sexist, racist, or exclusionary comments or jokes will not be tolerated. Be kind to others and do not insult or disrespect others. During group discussions, be respectful when listening to others and be mindful of talking over them.

To ensure a positive experience for all, harassment will not be tolerated. This includes offensive verbal comments related to identity (e.g. gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race or religion), sexual images in public spaces, deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, unwanted photography or recording, sustained disruption of discussions, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome sexual attention. Community members asked to terminate harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately.

As described in the UW policies on Ethical behaviour and Student discipline, inappropriate behaviour may first be addressed through informal resolution. Formal investigation processes may follow, as needed. To report an issue, contact any of: your instructor, your supervisor, the Associate Chair of your program, the Department Chair, one of the Graduate Advocates for the Faculty of Mathematics, the Office of the Ombudsperson, the Conflict Management and Human Rights Office, or the Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office. In cases of unwanted physical contact or aggressive and threatening behaviour, consider contacting the UW Special Constable Service (519-888-4911).