I-EDI Advisory Circle

Land acknowledgement

Simon Fraser University (SFU) and the Indigenization, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisory Circle respectfully acknowledge that we are privileged to do this work as newcomers and settlers to the lands of the xʷməθkʷəyəm (Musqueam), Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish), səlilwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), qícəy (Katzie), kʷikʷəƛəm (Kwikwetlem), Qayqayt, Kwantlen, Semiahmoo and Tsawwassen peoples, on whose unceded territories SFU’s three campuses reside.

We understand that these First Nations are the rights holders of these territories, and we are uninvited guests and/or settlers who are working to restore right relationships with our Host Nations.

As well, we acknowledge that SFU sits on lands that are the chosen home of the North Fraser and Surrey/Delta Métis Associations and we acknowledge and thank the diverse Indigenous peoples whose presence marks this territory on which peoples of the world now gather.

Purpose

The Advisory Circle champions and provides guidance for advancing Indigenization, equity, diversity, and inclusion work within the Faculty of Health Sciences. We strive for a collective approach that calls on all members of the FHS community to share in this work, to bring their diverse voices, knowledge and skills into the task of creating a safe and inclusive post-secondary environment. We recognize that we operate within the structures of SFU more broadly and our work is situated within the following policies:

1. Code of Faculty Ethics and Responsibilities (A30.01)
2. Human Rights Policy (GP 18)
3. Bullying and Harassment Policy (GP 47)
4. Response to Violence and Threatening Behaviour (GP25)
5. Sexual Violence and Misconduct Prevention, Education and Support Policy (GP 44) [and the SFU Sexual Violence Support and Prevention Office (SVSPO).]
6. Student Conduct Policy (S10.05)

Priorities and Commitments

To champion, mobilize, support and provide input into:

1. FHS self-assessment and gathering data on Indigenization, EDI initiatives and action via surveys, listening sessions, and shared community deliberations/conversations.
2. Communication and collaboration within the FHS community, inclusive of faculty, staff and students, on Indigenization and EDI initiatives and action.
3. Robust and equitable recruitment, retention and progression processes for faculty, staff, and students, including for leadership opportunities.
4. Implementation of Indigenization and EDI principles into core FHS work, including its Constitution and committee terms of reference and define actions for collective accountability.
5. Curricular reforms and course development that promote and integrate Decolonization and Indigenization and EDI principles and practices in the classroom.
6. Training on Decolonization, Indigenization, and EDI for FHS faculty, staff and students and ensure that faculty and staff are aware of and can access SFU resources, programs, and services.
7. Student-led initiatives on Decolonization, Indigenization, and EDI.
8. Working with SFU to support and advance its Decolonization, Indigenization and EDI initiatives.