Right now, many teams are being asked to build belonging while navigating real complexity at work, often at the same time. In this issue of Diversity Ink, we’re focusing on courage, clarity, and practical tools you can put into practice right away.
First, it’s the final reminder to register for CCDI UnConference 2026 (March 4–5, virtual), and registration closes March 2. With a Day 1 keynote by Kim Thúy, we’d love to have you join the conversation and explore equity and courage at work.
Next, we invite you to read Danyel Haughton’s latest blog on “reverse racism,” which grounds the conversation in what racism is, how power shapes it, and what it asks of allies and accomplices.
Finally, if you have been considering DEIA Pathways, Early Bird pricing ends March 6, and now is a great time to secure your spot and savings.
The CCDI team
Canada‘s premier conference on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) is just days away. On March 4 and 5, we’ll examine what it means to approach our work with courage, to lean into complexity, and to create environments where people feel valued and supported. Building on the distinguished speakers previously announced, we’re proud to introduce additional experts who will contribute their lived experiences, bold ideas, and unique insights to help shape the future of Canadian workplaces and communities.
Kim Thúy is a writer and speaker who left Vietnam with the boat people at the age of ten. She holds degrees in translation and law and worked in various fields before dedicating herself to writing. Her books, translated into 31 languages, have achieved worldwide success.
As taught by her late grandparents, Elder Syex̱wáliya supports families and shares cultural teachings and protocols within and outside of her community.
Director of Reconciliation and Indigenous Education, Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique (School District #93)
Bonnie Lépine Antoine is a passionate advocate for Francophone minority education, Indigenous education, and Reconciliation. With over 19 years of experience in the education sector, she plays a transformative role in integrating Indigenous perspective and worldviews into educational frameworks.
Lawyer and professor at the Faculty of Law, University of Montreal
Karine Millaire, Ph.D., is an expert in Indigenous governance, cultural security and participatory approaches. In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action 28, she established the first mandatory French-language course for the 400 students who begin their bachelor's degree in law each year. A member of the Wendat Nation, she is also president of Projets Autochtones du Québec.
Director, Practice Lead, First Nations and Inuit Relations, NATIONAL Public Relations firm
Trained as a political scientist, Jennifer O'Bomsawin worked with two Ministers of Indigenous Affairs for the Government of Quebec and advised the Grand Chief of the Huron-Wendat Nation, Rémy Vincent. Now Director and Leader of First Nations and Inuit Relations for the NATIONAL Public Relations firm, she continues her involvement with various organizations and provides training and lectures.
Director, Equity Leadership, College of Nurses of Ontario
Sandra is the Director of Equity Leadership at the largest health regulator in Canada, with an Equity Strategy and an Indigenous Equity Framework that serve a wide variety of constituents, including nurses, CNO staff, Council members, and the public. Her accomplishments include launching the DEL Program at CBC, which focused on removing barriers for members of Equity Deserving and Indigenous Groups. She also launched the first DEI Strategy as Metrolinx's Chief Inclusion Officer, the agency's first Workforce Census and eight vibrant Employee Resource Groups.
With over 30 years of experience as a BIPOC woman in retail leadership, Cassandra Machado has built a career grounded in purpose, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. In her role as Senior Manager, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at the LCBO, Cassandra leads enterprise-wide initiatives that champion inclusive culture, strengthen organizational learning, and address systemic barriers across a broad and diverse workforce.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager, Drax North America
Naomi Christopher is a People and Culture leader with more than 15 years of experience across learning and development, higher education, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and consulting. As the DEI Manager for Drax North America, she partners with operational and corporate leaders across the United States and Canada to strengthen inclusive workplace cultures.
Ana Mohammed is a trained Lawyer, Adjudicator, Mediator and Investigator. She has practiced in the areas of Administrative, Civil, and Criminal law, and has extensive experience in Employment and Human Rights law.
Kathleen Sawdo is a member of Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation in Treaty 3 Territory. As Executive Director of Indigenous Works and Kocihta, she is leading two national Indigenous organizations advancing workplace inclusion and reconciliation across Canada.
The final Early Bird pricing for CCDI DEIA Pathways program ends March 6. Designed to accommodate various learning styles, this program ensures learners not only grasp essential concepts but also have the opportunity to practice and apply skills effectively in real-world situations.
Have you heard the term "reverse racism"? It's a phrase that resurfaces whenever racial equity is discussed, but what does it really mean, and why is it so misleading?
In our latest blog, Danyel Haughton, Human Rights Officer at the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC), breaks down why this myth undermines honest conversations about power, equity, and social justice; erases lived experiences; and stalls the dismantling of racism.
"The very word ‘reverse’ implies that racism should flow toward marginalized and disempowered groups of people, almost like that’s the natural order, and that racism only emerges as a problem when White people “feel” targeted."
New tools for 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion at work: Explore the Unity campaign
Building an inclusive workplace takes more than good intentions. It also takes the right tools. CCDI is proud to highlight the Unity campaign by Women and Gender Equality Canada. This free suite of resources is for employers and individuals committed to 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion.
Why choose Unity?
Practical tools: Try the introspective exercises, watch the real-life allyship stories, and use the printable posters.
Clear language: Refer to the comprehensive 2SLGBTQI+ glossary to help your team use accurate, respectful language.
Flexible use: Bring these resources to your staff meetings, onboarding sessions, or lunch-and-learn events.
Help your team to spot stigma and speak up for a better together. Visit the Unity website to get started today.
Together we are shaping more equitable workplaces, schools and communities through our Employer Partners, moving towards a truly inclusive Canada. Join us in extending a warm welcome to our newest Employer Partners.
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