Queen’s University is acting on a key recommendation of the Principal’s Implementation Committee on Racism, Diversity, and Inclusion (PICRDI) by establishing a new council to promote and support the efforts of the university to foster a more diverse and inclusive campus community.

The new University Council on Anti-Racism and Equity (UCARE) will meet three times per calendar year and have 17 inaugural members. Together, they will be responsible for coordinating, reviewing, and reporting on the progress of university-wide initiatives launched to address issues of racism, diversity, and inclusion.

“This new group will help shape the vision and strategy of our university, serving as a critical voice and advocate for diversity and inclusion,” says Daniel Woolf, Principal and Vice-Chancellor. “I look forward to the challenging and important conversations that this council will enable, leading to a more welcoming and inclusive university community.”

Once it is established, UCARE will monitor the implementation of the PICRDI final report and the progress of anti-racism and equity initiatives; identify and make recommendations regarding persistent obstacles to progress on diversity and inclusion; coordinate and facilitate internal and external collaborations around diversity and equity initiatives; coordinate ongoing communication with the wider Queen’s community; and prepare an annual report of its activities. This council may also establish sub-councils, as appropriate.

Queen’s is now inviting members of the Queen’s community and Kingston community members to consider taking part in the council. UCARE is currently seeking to recruit three faculty members, three staff members, two students (including one undergraduate and one graduate or professional student), and two members of the Kingston community or alumni. The Senate Educational Equity Committee, Alma Mater Society (AMS), and Society of Graduate and Professional Students (SGPS) will also be represented on the council. The UCARE will maintain at least 51 per cent representation from racialized groups.

Those interested in applying to join UCARE should complete an application prior to Oct. 22 at 11:59 pm. The final membership will be announced in November, and the council aims to hold its first meeting before the end of 2017. These meetings will be open to faculty, staff, and student guests who wish to attend as observers.

For more information, or to apply, please visit the UCARE webpage. 

University Council on Anti-Racism and Equity Membership

Principal (or designate)
Provost (or designate)
Director, Human Rights Office (or designate)
Vice-Provost and Dean of Student Affairs (or designate)
Chair, Senate Educational Equity Committee
AMS Social Affairs Commissioner
SGPS Equity and Diversity Commissioner
Three members of faculty
Three members of staff
Two students (including one undergraduate and one graduate or professional student)
Two members of the Kingston community or alumni