Foster an Inclusive Community

WatSEE-aligned Actions

  • Employ short ice breaker activities in group events
  • Highlight student supports (e.g., AAS, SSO, Campus Wellness, WCC, LIB, CCD, Academic Advising)
  • Locate yourself and the limits of your knowledge
  • Use inclusive language to avoid excluding certain groups of people or perpetuating stereotypes (e.g., based on gender, race, religion, ability); if you make an error, briefly and immediately apologize, correct, and move on
  • Review shared materials for the inclusion of diverse perspectives
  • Respect students’ privacy and confidentiality regarding disabilities and health information
  • Recognize that an academic accommodation is a legal responsibility, not a favour; it removes barriers that exclude students, and it does not reduce rigour or academic integrity
  • Leave someone’s assistive devices in place (e.g., wheelchair, walker, cane, listening device), unless they make a request or grant permission
  • Consider that missing class/meetings may be a function of a disability and remaining quiet during discussions may be a function of a disability or other factors (e.g., cultural norms)
  • Prepare to address an identity threat, discrimination, or violence impacting a student (acknowledge incident and harm, connect student to support services, reiterate your support)