Trans and Non-binary Strategy | Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-racism

In a continued effort to support the 2STNBGNC+ campus community, the Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-Racism (EDI-R) is developing a comprehensive Trans and Non-binary Strategy set to be released Winter 2025.

The strategy is being developed with input from Trans and Non-binary students, faculty, staff, and service providers across our campus community using insights gathered through campus-wide consultations and a feedback form.

Throughout 2024, EDI-R collaborated with Campus Wellness to conduct consultations with members of the Trans and Non-binary community on campus. The sessions were designed to encourage open dialogue, revealing gaps in existing support and identifying key areas that would drive impactful change in academic and social aspects of university life. The findings of these discussions and recommendations will be included in the final strategy. Learn more about these sessions below.

Led by the EDI-R office, this work aims to establish sustainable support programs and policies that prioritize the recognition, safety and belonging of Trans and Non-binary students, faculty, and staff, laying the groundwork for ongoing dialogue, meaningful change, and continued progress.

Knowledge Gathering and Sharing for 2SLGBTQIA+ Communities

In response to the attack on June 28, 2023, the University of Waterloo committed to consulting and working with 2SLGBTQIA+ community groups to better understand their experiences on campus, and to address identified gaps and concerns.

The Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism organized consultations with 2SLGBTQIA+ students, faculty, staff, and key stakeholders across campus, with particular care and attention given to those who identify as Two-Spirit, Trans, Non-Binary, and Gender Non-Conforming (2STNBGNC+). The sessions were facilitated by Washington Silk, a 2SLGBTQ+ Student Support Counsellor in Counselling Services. The insights from these sessions will inform the development of a comprehensive Trans & Queer Equity Strategy.

For those who were unable to attend the scheduled sessions, a feedback form was widely distributed to collect additional thoughts about the well-being of 2SLGBTQIA+ people on campus. All responses remain confidential and have been anonymized for data analysis.

Goals

To build on feedback received previously from 2SLGBTQIA+ students and employees.
To create intentional spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ students and employees to share their needs and concerns.
To identify gaps and prioritize areas of focus for the strategy. In particular, areas that impact 2STNBGNC+ communities.

Consultation Group Details

Consultation Group Details:

Group size: There will be approximately 10 participants per group.

Facilitator: The main facilitator for the sessions is Washington Silk. Where possible, we will invite other diverse facilitators to guide the sessions.

Compensation: Each participant will receive a $25 honorarium. Participants will be asked to provide additional details to be compensated.

Facilities: Gender-neutral washrooms will be available at all locations for in-person sessions.

Inclusive Environment: The process aims to be an inclusive and safer space. Although difficult topics may be discussed, no transphobic, racist, or other harmful language/actions will be tolerated in any capacity.

Session Logistics: Notes will be taken, and a group agreement will be completed if we agree to record the session. Your responses will remain anonymous, and no names will be mentioned in the report.

Virtual Session Logistics: If you participate in a virtual session, you must do so from a confidential and private space.

Timing: We hope to cover most discussion topics within 75-90mins. However, participants are welcome to leave the sessions at any time.

Breaks: At least one break will be scheduled during the session, but participants can take additional breaks as needed. No snacks will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.

Masks: Masks are welcome but not required.

Transparency: The insight gathering team will strive to be as transparent as possible with the knowledge gathered and will share follow-up details as they become available.

Additional Feedback Options: There will be a survey available for participants to complete in addition to or separately from the consultation session.