Research equity and inclusion

Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Indigenous Initiatives (EDII) across the research enterprise

The University of Waterloo has a strong commitment to increasing equity, diversity, inclusion, and supporting Indigenous initiatives (EDII) in all facets of its operations and to remove barriers to achieving an equitable academic, research and campus environment. This commitment is rooted in one of Waterloo’s core values - we all belong. In our pursuit of excellence, we create conditions for everyone to flourish.

Equity-deserving groups include, but are not limited to: women, racialized peoples, members of 2SLGBTQ+ communities, people living with disabilities, people who identify as members of a racialized community, who exercise cultural and/or religious practices, and any intersection of these identities. Indigenous groups in the land we now know as Canada include First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, who are sovereign nations with inherent rights. 

Waterloo’s commitment to ensuring a sense of belonging for all is reflected in the impact theme Strengthening Sustainable and Diverse Communities included in Waterloo’s Strategic Plan 2020-2025. This is echoed in Waterloo’s Research Strategic Plan. Promoting and supporting Indigenous relations and a culture of equity, diversity and inclusivity for all has been identified as a key goal.

The creation of the Inclusive Research Team reflects the specific strategic transformational aims of supporting these goals. Please see the 2022 – 2025 Inclusive Research Implementation Strategy for an overview of how we will work to fully implement equity, diversity and inclusivity across the research enterprise.