SEPH GSA Equity, Diversity, Indigeneity, and Belonging (EDIIB) Mandate

The mandate of EDIIB within SEPHGSA is to raise awareness, foster sensitivity, and strengthen pathways to advance equity in all aspects of student life. This includes academic programs, student governance, and the learning and social environment for all students. Our Association is committed to a climate grounded in mutual respect and guided by the highest ethical and professional standards.

Equity is understood as fair and just access to opportunities, resources, and support for all students. It is the core principle of this mandate. We advocate for removing barriers to learning, leadership, and professional growth, and encourage students to champion health equity and broader social equity in their academic and community work.

Diversity recognizes that our differences (across identities, lived experiences, worldviews, and social positions) enrich our learning environment. We commit to acknowledging and valuing these differences, learning from each other, and avoiding structures or practices that marginalize or exclude any group. We recognize that determinants of health, such as Indigeneity, gender, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, age, disability, and migration background, have significant impacts on well-being and experience.

Indigeneity is a central pillar of our mandate. We honour the rights, knowledge systems, histories, and lived realities of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. We acknowledge that SEPHGSA activities take place on the unceded, traditional territories of Indigenous Peoples and that colonialism continues to shape inequities today. Our commitment is to promote learning grounded in truth, reconciliation, respect for Indigenous sovereignty, and culturally safe spaces where Indigenous students can thrive.

Inclusion means creating an environment where every student feels welcomed, respected, valued, and able to contribute meaningfully to our community. Inclusion requires ongoing effort to address systemic barriers, amplify underrepresented voices, and cultivate collaborative spaces where all students can participate fully.

Belonging extends beyond inclusion by ensuring that every student feels recognized, supported, and connected to the community. Belonging implies that students see themselves reflected in leadership, decision-making, and programming, and that their identities and experiences are not only accepted but celebrated. Our goal is to build a student culture where all members feel safe, empowered, and at home.

Through this mandate, the SEPHGSA commits to continuous reflection, consultation, and action to ensure that equity, diversity, Indigeneity, inclusion, and belonging are embedded in every aspect of our governance and student life.