Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Research
We are committed to advancing equity, diversity and inclusion in research at Unity Health Toronto, addressing health disparities, and building a culturally responsive research environment.
Our Commitment
At Unity Health Toronto, our dedication to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) is woven into the fabric of our mission and values. Our hospitals, rooted in a commitment to serve Toronto's diverse communities, strive to democratize access to high-quality care for those facing marginalization.
Our research institution, a vital complement to our clinical mission, intentionally addresses the impacts of social and economic disparities on health. In 2019, Unity Health Toronto signed onto an initiative for research institutes to increase equity, diversity and inclusion in research, called Dimensions: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Its focus is on eliminating obstacles experienced by members of underrepresented or disadvantaged groups, including, but not limited to, women, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minority/racialized groups, and members of LGBTQ2+ communities. As we continue our mission to address the social determinants of health through world-leading research, we're reaffirming our commitment to EDI, placing it at the forefront of our work. We embark on a journey toward a culturally-responsive, highly effective research enterprise powered by diversity.
Research Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Task Force (REDI)
The Research Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Task Force (REDI) is an advisory group with a mandate to provide guidance to the Research Leadership Committee on the EDI-related barriers that exist in research, and to recommend initiatives and practices aimed at removing these barriers and promoting fairness, mutual respect and an unequivocal sense of equity, diversity and inclusion among our research community. REDI membership includes representatives from Unity Health Toronto’s scientists, trainees and research.
2021-2026 Key Areas of Work
1. Establishing EDI Governance
Dedicated EDI leadership
Research EDI task force
Representation on the Equity, Anti-Racism, and Social Accountability Council in the broader hospital network
2. Pan-Institutional Equity Initiatives
Deployment of policies, resources, and training to uncover and address systemic bias
Support for those impacted by racism or discrimination
3. Leadership Decision-Making
Prioritizing inclusive consultation, open communication, transparency, and co-creation in decision-making processes
EDI will be Unity Health Toronto's signature approach, driving excellence in research, training, and service. We commit to continually learning, dismantling barriers, and fostering social justice within our institution and beyond.
For more information about institutional commitments to EDI, contact ResearchEDI@unityhealth.to.
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