Equity and Inclusion at Carleton

Bringing together different perspectives unlocks creativity that leads to positive outcomes for all. For Carleton University, achieving this means enhancing student experiences and creating a high-quality learning environment that fosters student success in the classroom and beyond.

We recognize that the backgrounds, experiences and understandings of our students are diverse. That’s why we’re committed to building equitable, diverse and inclusive student support services and re-imagining curricular and pedagogical practices, research infrastructure and leadership development for our staff.

Carleton Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan

Carleton is committed to ensuring the positive experiences of all students. Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) has been identified by Carleton’s Board of Governors, Federal Tri-Agency Research Funders, faculty, staff, public and private sector employers, and all other members of the external community as critical to the future success of the university. Following the consultation process, the Carleton EDI Action Plan was officially launched in March of 2021.

You can read the full Carleton EDI Action Plan or download a concise companion document (a printable version is also available).

For more information, visit the EDI Action Plan website.

Carleton supports

Here are just a few ways in which Carleton supports its diverse student body through events, programs and resources.

Carleton Athletics adaptive and inclusive programming: Carleton Athletics is proud to offer a comprehensive adaptive sports program, providing students free access to activities like adaptive dance, adaptive strength and flexibility, adaptive boccia and para swimming.

Carleton Athletics Women’s Only Fitness Centre and Trans & Allies Fitness Space: Provides the Carleton community with opportunities to comfortably visit the athletic facilities at various times throughout the week.

Carleton Disability Awareness Centre: This Carleton University Students’ Association (CUSA) service centre provides a peer support, advocacy and community space for students who experience disability, chronic illness, neurodiversity or inaccessibility. The centre provides events and a variety of services to support the community.

Carleton Pride Festival: This week-long series of events organized by the Student Experience Office (SEO) celebrates 2SLGBTQIA+ identities in the Carleton community. The festival facilitates education about sexual orientation and gender identity and brings awareness to issues within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

Gender and Sexuality Resource Centre: Whether through peer support, workshops, resources or social events, this Carleton University Students’ Association (CUSA) service centre provides a safe space for Carleton students wishing to connect with queer and trans communities.

UMOJA Black Community Engagement Program: This program is dedicated to the academic, professional and personal empowerment of the Ottawa regions’ African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) communities. The program includes public education programs and events that strive to address anti-Black racism in society and celebrate the lives of the ACB community. It is managed by the Student Experience Office (SEO) and led by graduate and undergraduate students.

Students walking along the Pride Crosswalk on Carleton's campus.

Awards

Carleton’s vision of providing equitable, diverse and inclusive opportunities is fundamental to our vision of excellence. We’re proud to offer a wide range of awards that deliver on our EDI commitments. Visit our Awards and Financial Aid website to see our many EDI award opportunities.

More information

Learn more about Carleton’s Department of Equity and Inclusive Communities (EIC) and our commitments to the EDI efforts contained in Carleton’s EDI Action Plan. You can also connect with us at equity@carleton.ca.

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