I’ve been reflecting on leadership, particularly the scarcity of equity-centered leadership in our highest levels of organizations, institutions, and in the political arena. This deficiency is especially troubling as we confront complex provincial, national, and global challenges. The rise of polarizing perspectives, aggressive language and rhetoric, and power consolidation highlights the urgent need for inclusive leadership now more than ever.
Equity-centered leadership involves creating an inclusive environment where everyone is respected, valued, and has the opportunity to succeed. This type of leadership actively addresses systemic inequities and biases, ensuring that those historically marginalized, have access to resources and opportunities. Equity-centered leaders prioritize the needs and perspectives of equity deserving groups, and foster a collaborative environment where diverse voices are integral to decision-making. This leadership style is a continuous journey of learning and taking action aimed at improving equity outcomes.
When creating his new cabinet our new Prime Minister eliminated positions dedicated to people with disabilities, women and gender equality issues and youth. This change stripped women, gender-diverse individuals, people living with disabilities and youth of a crucial platform where their unique needs could be heard and supported. The loss of a dedicated strategy, resources and accountability mechanisms means that the lived experiences of equity deserving groups are at risk of being silenced.
In response to calls to reverse this decision, a government spokesperson told The Canadian Press that the previous departments working on women, gender, diversity, inclusion and disability issues will continue to operate even if they don’t have a dedicated minister. The thinking is that issues of gender equity, accessibility, inclusion and anti-racism are or will be integrated in all existing Ministries. The reality of this is quite the opposite. Systems of oppression are deeply ingrained in our institutions, society, in our thoughts, feelings and actions, and our public service agencies have significant work to do in the area of gender and racial analysis, and accessibility. Without intentional efforts, capacity building, a strategic direction, and accountability aimed at addressing systemic racism and gender inequality these default behaviours and beliefs will remain, and progress will remain elusive.
As we consider the current state of leadership in our highest levels of government nationally and internationally, it is imperative that we call for a re-evaluation of decisions that undermine equity and inclusion. I join many others in urging Prime Minister Mark Carney to reconsider the elimination of the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities and Minster for Women and Gender Equality and Youth.
As noted in a Joint News Release on the Minister of WAGE, “The removal of this cabinet position is not just a symbolic loss; it has real-world implications for millions of women and gender-diverse people and workers in Canada who rely on the government to protect their rights and advance their interests. Furthermore, Canada’s commitment to women’s rights, equality and full participation in society depends on this department’s sustained funding, policy making and accountability measures. It is imperative that the Prime Minister reconsider this decision and reinstate a dedicated Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth to ensure that these critical issues remain at the forefront of Canada’s political agenda.”
Chanel Grenaway & Associates Inc. is committed to helping leaders, staff teams and boards align with their anti-racism and inclusion goals through continuous learning and practice change. Do you need support to start or accelerate your equity practice and outcomes? Happy to hop on a call with you to see how I might help. Let’s chat.