Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

DEI Plan

As part of the College’s 2022-2025 Strategic Plan, the Council identified DEI as one of the strategic pillars that would guide the College’s operations over the years.

What is the College doing?

• The College has a dedicated DEI working group that meets regularly to stay accountable to the objectives listed out in the DEI Plan.
• Since June 2022, the College has been inviting speakers to present on various DEI topics at Council meetings to encourage DEI considerations in decision-making.
  • The College is committed to hosting at least two workshops at Council meetings every year.
• The College has developed a land acknowledgement statement with a member of the indigenous community that is cited at every Council meeting. A virtual land acknowledgement has been developed and is being used in Council/committee meetings that are completely virtual.
• The “ABOUT” and “PUBLIC” portions of the College’s website are available in French to accommodate the French-speaking population of Ontario.
• College staff took part in a Plan Language Training Workshop in May 2023 so that our written communication and language with members and the public is clear and easy to understand.
• The College has the authority to investigate complaints including allegations of discrimination. Anyone with such concerns is encouraged to contact the College’s Investigations & Resolutions department.

Resources

College

• Anti-Discrimination Policy Guidelines
• Special Needs Accommodation
• Practice Advisory: Your Patients, Your Staff, Your Responsibility

Indigenous Resources

• College of Optometrists of Ontario – Funding Options for Eyecare in Ontario
• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation – Lunch & Learns
• University of Alberta – Indigenous Canada Course
• Cancer Care Ontario – Indigenous Relationship and Cultural Awareness Course (for healthcare providers)
• Native Land – Discover Whose Land You’re On

Legislation & Additional Resources

• The Ontario Human Rights Code
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
• Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
  • AODA Requirements for Healthcare Provide
• Anti-BIPOC Racism Project Resources from HPRO (Health Profession Regulators of Ontario)

Feedback/Comments

Your feedback and/or comments about the College’s DEI initiatives and/or DEI in your practice are much appreciated and necessary to help the College grow in the DEI domain.