The following message contains content related to gender-based violence, and may cause strong emotions to arise, especially for those with lived experience. It is recommended that you read the message when you feel safe and supported.

In Canada, we recognize the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women on December 6, to commemorate the 14 women at Polytechnique Montréal whose lives were taken due to violent misogyny. It is a time to honour these women’s lives and commemorate all the women and gender-diverse folks that we have lost due to gender-based violence.

RRC Polytech is hosting a vigil on Friday, December 6, 2024. All staff and students are invited to join the College community as we foster hope and healing for a future free from gender-based violence.

December 6 Vigil

• Date and Time: Friday, December 6, 2024, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
• Location: The Cave, Notre Dame Campus (Mall Level, Building E)
• Speakers and Guests:
  • Grandmother Janice, Grandmother-in-Residence, RRC Polytech
  • Fred Meier, CEO and President, RRC Polytech
  • Maria Mendes, Director, Campus Renewal and Environmental Stewardship, RRC Polytech (emcee and host)
  • Angela Grace Felipe, President, RRC Polytech Students’ Association

ASL-English interpretation will be provided. At RRC Polytech, we strive to host inclusive events. If you require accommodation, please email events@rrc.ca.

Please note that registration is not required. Coffee and tea will be provided.

Additional Ways to Recognize December 6

• Wear a white ribbon
• Observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m.
• Visit the reflection space at the Exchange District Campus. More details to come.
• Learn more about gender-based violence

About White Ribbons

Wearing a white ribbon symbolizes your pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women and girls. White ribbons also remind us to pause, to commemorate all women who have been killed or affected by violence, and to reflect on what can be done to help end violence.

RRC Polytech has purchased ribbons for staff and students to wear from White Ribbon. The organization was founded two years after the Massacre in Montreal when a group of men came together to look for safe ways to support women through education and allyship. This Canadian organization seeks to prevent gender-based violence through changing behaviors, attitudes, and values of man and boys throughout Canada and the world. Their values are Gender Justice, teaching men and boys how to respect women and girls, Anti-Oppression, Collaboration, Innovation, Integrity, and Compassion.

Where to Pick-Up a White Ribbon

White ribbons will be available soon. Please stay tuned to Staff and Student News for pick-up locations.

On December 3, we join the global community in celebrating International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). A day dedicated to promoting understanding, increasing awareness, and mobilizing support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of people with disabilities. This year’s theme – Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for a More Inclusive Future – emphasizes the importance of access and inclusion, affirming our commitment to creating an environment where everyone can fully participate, thrive, and feel valued and included.

At RRC Polytech, we recognize that accessibility is a fundamental aspect of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Our ongoing work around enhancing physical, digital, and attitudinal access is essential to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Through initiatives focused on accommodations, universal design, and disability awareness, we strive to address barriers that might prevent students, staff, and faculty from realizing their full potential.

Why IDPD Matters

International Day of Persons with Disabilities is a powerful reminder that disability is a natural part of the human experience. By fostering understanding and encouraging open conversations, we help to challenge misconceptions, reduce stigma, and create a community where everyone feels they belong. This day is also an invitation to reflect on how we, as individuals and as a College community, can further our commitment to accessibility in meaningful ways.

Our Commitment to Accessibility

We are proud of the progress we have made in advancing accessibility across our campuses, from implementing accessible technologies and building infrastructure to offering accommodations that support students’ and employees’ diverse needs. But our work is far from over as it is a collective continuous effort. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to identifying and addressing barriers to access and working collaboratively to ensure that the College is a place where everyone has equitable opportunities to succeed.

Get Involved and Stay Engaged

In celebration of IDPD, we encourage everyone in the College community to:

• Learn more about the experiences of people with disabilities and explore ways you can contribute to an inclusive environment.
• Participate in upcoming events and initiatives that foster dialogue and learning around disability awareness and accessibility.
• Share your ideas and suggestions for how we can continue to improve access and inclusion on campus.

We invite students, staff, and faculty to join us for an insightful discussion on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, in the Cave Lounge at the Notre Dame Campus. This event features guest speakers from RRC Polytech and an alumnus who will be sharing their insights, challenges, and experiences related to accessibility and the importance of fostering an inclusive and sustainable future. This event is not only a chance to celebrate the work we’re doing but also an opportunity for us to learn from each other, exchange perspectives, and spark ideas that can drive transformative accessibility initiatives across the College.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, December 3, 2024
• Location: The Cave Lounge – NDC (Mall level of building E)
• Time:
  • 11:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
• Accessibility:
  • ASL-English Interpretation will be provided

Registrations will be open until November 29, 2024. Register Today and secure your spot!

Happy International Day of Persons with Disabilities!

Post written by Atreya Madrone, Gender and Sexual Diversity Working Group Member at RRC Polytech.

Please note that the following content includes discussions of transphobic violence and may bring up strong emotions for those with lived experience. It is recommended that you read the following when you feel safe and supported.

Transgender Day of Remembrance is observed annually as a day for people to come together to bring awareness to transphobic violence and to honour those whose lives were taken because of transphobic violence. It began in November 1999 when Gwendolyn Ann Smith was with other transgender people in her community, remembering Rita Hester, a trans woman who was murdered one year prior, and Chanelle Picket, a trans woman who was murdered in November 1996. From this night, Smith and her trans community members came together and held the first Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20.

One trans person’s death by transphobic violence is one too many. Yet, in 2023 alone, the Trans Murder Monitoring Report (2023) found that globally:

• 321 transgender people were reported murdered.
• 94% of these people were trans women or trans-feminine.
• For cases with age data available, 77% of people murdered were between 19-40 years old.
• Racialized transgender people accounted for 80% of the reported murders.

On Turtle Island, specifically the area now known as Canada, the 2018 Survey of Safety in Public and Private Spaces (SSPPS) reported that:

• 59% of transgender people have been physically or sexually assaulted at least once since the age of 15, compared to 37% of cisgender people.
• 58% of transgender people experienced unwanted sexual behavior in public in 2017, compared to 23% of cisgender people.
• 65% of transgender people reported fair or poor mental health, compared to 11% of cisgender people.

While being trans is a source of joy and celebration, transphobia remains a significant issue, deeply affecting the lives of transgender and gender nonconforming individuals worldwide. Transgender Day of Remembrance is not only a day of reflection, but also a call to action for cisgender people to commit themselves to ending transphobia in all its forms.

To the fellow trans people reading this, if you are struggling today, you can find immediate support by calling:

• The Klinic Crisis Line at (204)-768-8686
• Trans Lifeline at (877)-330-6366

Transgender Day of Remembrance Vigil

Join us as we recognize Transgender Day of Remembrance. We will hold a moment of silence followed by donuts and time to decorate or sign cut-out candles that will be hung in the Spectrum at NDC.

• NDC
  • When: Wednesday, November 20th, 12-1 p.m.
  • Where: The Spectrum, FM66
• EDC
  • When: Thursday, November 21st, 12-1 p.m.
  • Where: The John and Bonnie Buhler Library, P214A

Let us honour the lives lost and work together towards a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a major festival celebrated worldwide and the biggest holiday season of the year for the South Asian community. The celebration falls in October or November, based on the Hindu lunar calendar. This year, Diwali begins on October 31. 

The celebration of Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It holds different meanings within various regions and religions, and traditions vary also by region, family and personal customs. Some typical traditions include lighting oil lamps (diyas), decorating homes, setting off fireworks, sharing sweets, and spending time with loved ones. 

The RRC Polytech Students’ Association (RRCSA) invites all staff and students to a free, come-and-go Diwali celebration at the Exchange District Campus on October 29, 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. in the Roundhouse Auditorium (Second Floor), Manitou a bi Bii daziigae. A celebration hosted by the RRCSA is also planned at the Notre Dame Campus on November 8 in the Cave. More details to come. 

Wishing those who celebrate a Diwali filled with joy, prosperity, and light! 

At RRC Polytech, we’re committed to fostering inclusion and respect in everything we do.

On October 16, 2024, we are proud to recognize and celebrate International Pronouns Day, a day that highlights the importance of respecting and using individuals’ pronouns as an impactful way of fostering inclusion and belonging.

Personal pronouns are an integral part of affirming an individual’s identity. For transgender, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming individuals, being addressed by the appropriate pronouns is a vital aspect of feeling respected and valued. Misusing or assuming incorrect pronouns can lead to feelings of marginalization and invisibility.

At RRC Polytech, we want all students, employees and members of our community to feel valued and seen.  We acknowledge that learning and addressing an individual by their correct pronouns is as fundamental and important as learning and addressing an individual by their chosen name.

As we come together as a community to recognize and celebrate International Pronouns Day, we invite all students, staff, and faculty to join us in normalizing conversations about pronouns and encouraging open, respectful dialogue that embraces everyone’s unique identity.

Here are some ways you can participate in International Pronouns Day:

• Visit the Pronouns.org website to learn more about pronouns and why they matter
• Respect the pronouns of others; if you are unsure of another individual’s pronouns – ask them.
• Share your pronouns in introductions, email signatures, and online profiles.

How to display your Personal Pronouns

Employees

1. Log in to HUB and select ‘HR Unlimited’Select ‘My Portal’
2. Within ‘My Portal,’ select the ‘Personal’ tab, and then select ‘Personal Information’
3. Within the ‘Personal Information’ section, locate the ‘Pronouns’ section, and select ‘Add or Modify Pronouns’
4. A pop-up box will appear, and you can select your pronouns from the drop-down menu.
5. Once you have selected your pronouns, select the ‘OK’ button. You will receive a notification to confirm ‘The record has been saved’ at the top left of the screen.

Refer to the HRIS Quick Guide if you require more detailed information.

Students

1. Log in to HUB and select ‘Payments and Profile’
2. Select under the ‘User Options’ in the side left sidebar select ‘User Profile’
3. Select ‘Edit Personal Identity’
4. Within the ‘Identity Details’ section, locate the ‘Preferred Pronouns’ section
5. A pop-up box will appear, and you can select your pronouns from the drop-down menu.
6. Once you have selected your pronouns, select the ‘Save’ button. You will receive a notification to confirm ‘Successfully updated user profile’ at the top right of the screen.

For more information contact studentservices@rrc.ca.

By learning about, respecting, and using each other’s personal pronouns, we can all contribute to advancing our shared values and commitments to equity, diversity and inclusion. We can foster work and learning environments where everyone feels valued, respected, and part of an inclusive and welcoming community where everyone can thrive and belong.

Post written by Dr Obren Amiesimaka, Gender and Sexual Diversity Working Group Member at RRC Polytech.

What is National Coming Out Day (NCOD)?

In Canada, and in several other countries, National Coming Out Day (NCOD) is observed on October 11. NCOD is a day to celebrate coming out by 2SLGBTQIA+ folx and to honour all who have come out, encourage those in the process of coming out and support folx who are yet to come out. NCOD reminds society that 2SLGBTQIA+ folx have the right and freedom to live their full, true identities, openly and confidently, every day, every time and everywhere.  

The NCOD date is highly symbolic. Started by Robert Eichberg and Jean O’Leary, the inaugural NCOD in the US was held on October 11, 1988, which was one year after the Second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. About 750,000 people had marched in 1987 to advocate for people living with HIV/AIDS and for queer rights at the height of the AIDS epidemic.   

Why is National Coming Out Day (still) important?

 “Most people think they don’t know anyone gay or lesbian, and in fact, everybody does. It is imperative that we come out and let people know who we are and disabuse them of their fears and stereotypes.” This 1993 quote of Robert Eichberg, one of the NCOD founders, sums up the spirit of NCOD.

Over three decades later, despite significant improvements in 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and visibility, we still live in a heteronormative world where the default assumption is that everyone is cis gender and straight. Many people would still say that they do not know any queer folx personally. NCOD is important as it celebrates coming out to help show the world that being 2SLGBTQIA+ is normal and queer folx are in every family, school, workplace and country the world over. It is also essential for showing folx who are struggling with their sexuality that they are not alone, abnormal or unloved.

‘Coming out’ as 2SLGBTQIA+ is the process of socially acknowledging one’s sexual orientation and/or gender identity. It is about being your authentic self so you can live your best life – out loud, proudly and freely. As Nelson Mandela said: “There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”

It starts with coming out to yourself; accepting your sexuality/gender identity is typically the first step, and then when you are ready, you may choose to share your truth with others. There’s no right or wrong way to come out; the perfect time to come out is whenever you are ready and safe. Coming out is not for others, it’s for you! However, sharing our experiences by coming out can help us feel connected, empowered, supported and inspired.

Coming out is often a recurrent process; we do not come out just the once. We come out to family who are not aware, new people we meet – at school, work, anywhere really, etc. How you come out and who you choose to tell, is your decision to make. It is always advisable to begin with people who you are most comfortable with – people who would support you and stand with you.

Yes, NCOD is the day set aside to celebrate coming out, but coming out day can be any day. So, do not feel compelled to come out on October 11. It is alright to be in the closet if you are not ready for any reason whatsoever – you are still coming to terms with being 2SLGBTQIA+, you live in an unsafe environment, you come from one of the 63 jurisdictions around the world that criminalize being 2SLGBTQIA+ etc. Being in the closet does not make you any less 2SLGBTQIA+; just know, a time will come when you can come out of that closet and walk in the sun!

You have a lovely 2SLGBTQIA+ community and many allies cheering you on now, and who will be there to welcome and support you whenever you choose to come out.

Trust and believe, it gets better!

At RRC Polytech, we believe that diversity is our strength. We are committed to creating inclusive learning and working environments where everyone feels safe, respected, and celebrated.

Today is an excellent opportunity to consider the ways each of us can make our learning and working spaces safe(r), more welcoming and more inclusive; and how we can support 2SLGBTQIA+ friends and colleagues.

Below are resources and further information on being allies for everyone – it doesn’t matter who you are, everyone deserves to be treated with kindness, dignity, and respect. If you have any questions or comments, please email us at diversity@rrc.ca.

Resources:

• A coming out story
• Allyship is leadership
• How to be an Ally to a Bi+ Person
• What Does Trans Allyship Look Like? 

In 2007, the federal government designated October as Canadian Islamic History Month, to celebrate, inform, educate, and share Muslim heritage with fellow Canadians. It is a time to acknowledge the significant contributions of Muslims to our country’s prosperity and diverse heritage. Contributions from Muslim communities span from science to business, academia to the arts and beyond. 

The Islamic History Month Canada (IHMC) theme for 2024 is Health & Healing, providing an opportunity to explore and celebrate the profound contributions of Muslim scholars and scientists to the field of medicine. Some of the most notable historical figures who have made contributions to medicine, include: 

• Ibn Sina (Avicenna), whose seminal work, The Canon of Medicine, is often regarded as one of the most influential medical texts ever written. This comprehensive encyclopedia of medicine was used as a reference in both the Islamic world and Europe for centuries. Ibn Sina’s detailed descriptions of diseases, his emphasis on clinical observation, and his introduction of various therapeutic methods transformed medical practice and education. 

• Al-Razi (Rhazes), whose contributions include Kitab al-Hawi and Kitab al-Mansuri, which were pioneering in their systematic approach to medical knowledge. Al-Razi is celebrated for his work on the diagnosis and treatment of smallpox and measles, and his pioneering use of clinical trials and patient observations helped establish a scientific method in medicine. 

• Ibn al-Nafis is another trailblazer whose discovery of pulmonary circulation marked a significant advancement in understanding the human cardiovascular system. His observations predated similar discoveries in the West by several centuries, showcasing his exceptional contributions to medical science. 

These scholars and scientists – among many others – demonstrate a holistic approach to well-being and numerous contributions to modern medicine as we know it today.  

Through celebrating achievements and promoting inclusion, Islamic History Months aims to create a broader sense of societal awareness and deeper sense of belonging for Muslim Canadians. 

Resources for Further Learning 

• A selection of videos, book and more, curated by Islamic History Month Canada  

• CCDI’s Canadian Islamic History Month Resource Guide 

• CCDI Webinar: Islamophobia 
  • Thursday, October 17, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. 
    Join the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) and Mohamed Hashim, Executive Director of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF), to discuss the evolution of Islamophobia in Canada, its impacts in communities and the workplace, and how individuals and organizations who fear further polarization and backlash can engage in this national discourse to address bias and hate against Muslims. 
    Visit CCDI’s website to learn more and register* 

• Islamic History Month Recommended Reading Guide from the Winnipeg Public Library 

• Free community event at WAG-Qaumajuq: 
  • Islamic Storytelling with Amna Burki – Sunday, October 13, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. 

* Please note that RRC Polytech is a CCDI Employer Partner, which means all College employees are eligible to receive a free membership to access Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) resources, including webinars. When registering for the webinar, select “Employer Partner” for the registration type.   

Rosh Hashanah, beginning before sundown on Wednesday, October 2, and ending after nightfall on Friday, October 4, is the first of a series of significant high holidays coming up in the Jewish calendar. Rosh Hashanah, which marks the start of the Jewish New Year, culminates with Yom Kippur, beginning before sundown on Friday, October 11, and ending after nightfall on Shabbat, October 12, and is the day of atonement. The period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is considered very important as a time of reflection, repentance and renewal.

Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are followed by Sukkot (Fall Solstice), Shemini Atzeret (marks the transition back to routine life), and Simchat Torah (celebrating the torah).

Whether the Jewish community observes the high holidays from a religious or cultural perspective, there are specific ways in which Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are typically celebrated.

Rosh Hashanah

On “erev,” the evening of Rosh Hashanah, it’s typical to host large dinners with family and friends and eat sweet things like apples and honey and honey cake to symbolize a “sweet new year.” Challah (egg bread) which is the shape representing the cycle of life is also enjoyed. These dinner celebrations happen for two nights, and people who are observant typically go to synagogue over the two days for Rosh Hashanah services and to listen to the shofar, a ram’s horn that is blown like a trumpet.

Yom Kippur

On Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, those who are observant fast with no food or drink during that time and go to synagogue both the “erev” (evening of) Yom Kippur and the next day until the fast ends. At sundown after the fast ends, family and friends get together to break the fast.

The 10 days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are considered very significant. Listening to the shofar and having community gatherings is typical during this time.

Coming up on Wednesday, October 9, there is a Tashlich Picnic organized by the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg. Visit the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg’s Community Calendar for more events happening during the high holidays.

Shana tova umetuka! (Have a happy and sweet new year!) 

October is a time to celebrate the talents and contributions of individuals with disabilities in the workforce. Since 2010, Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM) has highlighted the invaluable roles people with disabilities play in our communities. It’s an opportunity for employers to champion inclusive hiring practices and raise awareness about the importance of disability employment.

At RRC Polytech, we proudly embrace these values every day. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion means creating environments that are welcoming, supportive, and respectful of the dignity and independence of individuals of all abilities. Together, we can continue to remove barriers and foster communities where everyone has the opportunity and the access to thrive and succeed.

We invite you to join us in celebrating our shared commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

Light It Up! for NDEAM

At RRC Polytech, we are excited showcase our commitment to accessibility and inclusion by participating in the ‘Light It Up! For NDEAM’ (National Disability Employment Awareness Month) initiative. Through the month of October RRC Polytech will:

• Illuminate the Roblin Centre and the Paterson Global Foods Institute at EDC with purple and blue lights starting on October 17 and for the rest of the month.
• Project the “Light It Up! for NDEAM” graphic on the Elgin Plaza from October 14 to 18, 2024.
• Feature the “Light It Up! for NDEAM” graphic on the NDC outdoor digital screen at Notre Dame Ave. and King Edward St. from October 14 to 18, 2024.

Accessibility Quick Tips

Starting in October, RRC Polytech will be sharing an Accessibility Quick Tips to provide information about accessibility services and supports to help the College community incorporate accessible practices into our professional and personal lives. These tips will be shared through Staff News every Wednesday.

As we light up our campus and share quick tips, we also want to ensure that all members of our community are aware of and have access to the various resources that support our commitment to accessibility and inclusivity including:

Accessibility Staff Forum Page

We’ve made it easier for our staff to find accessibility resources by creating an Accessibility page on Staff Forum. Please take a moment to review and bookmark this page. It includes information and links to resources such as Supportive Employment, Student Accessibility Services, Accessibility Training, and Accessible Content Creation Resources.

Accessibility Plan

RRC Polytech is dedicated to removing barriers to education and employment while promoting access and participation in all areas. We believe in inclusion and strive to meet, and wherever possible, exceed the requirements of The Accessibility for Manitobans Act and The Human Rights Code. To support this commitment, RRC Polytech has developed an Accessibility Plan, which is renewed every two years.

Accessibility Training

Accessibility Training is one way we promote awareness and foster an accessible environment. All College employees must complete the Accessible Customer Service training and the Accessible Information and Communication Standard training. Employees can access and review the training in LEARN at any time.

Accessibility Parking

RRC Polytech provides accessible parking for staff. The Manitoba Parking Permit Program, regulated by Manitoba Infrastructure and Technology and administered by Manitoba Possible, allows individuals who have difficulty walking more than 50 meters to use specially designated parking spots across the province. Staff with certain temporary health conditions may be eligible for accessible parking on a temporary basis, subject to availability.

Student Accessibility Services

Student Accessibility Services plays a key role in arranging accommodations and supports for students with disabilities. Our Student Accessibility Services team works collaboratively with new, current and future students, faculty and support staff, to ensure all students can have an equal opportunity to achieve their educational goals.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services offers accommodations such as ASL-English interpreters and computerized note-takers to ensure equal access to education for all Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. The Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services team provides American Sign Language – English interpreters and computerized note takers for full-time or part-time programs, group work related to courses, college-related appointments (meeting with instructors, financial aid, counselling etc.), college workshops, events and more. Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services works together with students and their academic program to develop and facilitate individualized and appropriate accommodations.

To book an ASL-English Interpreter or transcriber submit this form.

Supportive Employment

Supportive Employment is a specialized area within Human Resource Services that focuses on managing disabilities. It emphasizes early intervention and proactive practices to ensure employees receive the support they need to continue working or return to productive employment as soon as possible. If you’d like to learn more about the Supportive Employment program, please speak with your manager or human resource consultant. Managers can also access the Supportive Employment Training Module on LEARN to learn how to support their team members.

Interview Accommodation

At RRC Polytech, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees and students feel valued, respected, and supported. We welcome applications from individuals with disabilities and strive for a workforce that reflects the diversity of our communities. Our recruitment process is designed to be barrier-free and equitable for everyone. You can learn more about the interview accommodation process and how to request accommodation on the Interview Accommodation Page.

Accessibility Tech Tips for Enhanced Learning

RRC Polytech’s Student Accessibility Services (SAS) collaborates with students, faculty, and support staff to ensure that all students have equal opportunities to achieve their educational goals. The SAS Assistive Technologist maintains a blog that promotes the use of technology to enhance academic life for all RRC Polytech students. Blog posts typically appear twice a month, highlighting tips, resources, and technology supports. You can visit the Tech Tips blog or subscribe to the Tech Tips newsletter to stay updated on the latest accessibility technology tips.

Safety First: Individual Emergency Plans

An Individual Emergency Plan (IEP) outlines procedures for the safe evacuation of individuals with disabilities during campus emergencies. The IEP includes exit routes, muster points, and specific steps to follow in various scenarios. For more information about the emergency response process, please visit the Safety, Health and Security Services SharePoint site, or contact safety@rrc.ca to request an individual emergency plan.

We Want Your Feedback!

At RRC Polytech, we believe in our shared responsibility to create an equitable, accessible, and inclusive environment. We value your suggestions on how to enhance accessibility services across our campuses. You can share your feedback by filling out this feedback form on our website or by emailing us at diversity@rrc.ca.

Additionally, you can help us better understand our college community and assess our current Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion initiatives, programs, and policies by completing the voluntary Employment Equity Self-Identification Questionnaire. Staff can access and update their self-identification information at any time. Students who wish to self-identify can contact the Student Services Centre at their campus.

From September 23 to 29, we celebrate International Week of the Deaf. This week shines a light on the importance of sign languages and advocates for the rights of Deaf individuals. The theme for 2024, “Sign Up for Sign Language Rights”, encourages global support for the legal recognition of national sign languages.

Here’s what’s happening at RRC Polytech and around the world:

Monday, Sept 23, 2024 – International Day of Sign Languages: Sign Up for Sign Language Rights

September 23 is International Day of Sign Languages. This day, recognized by the United Nations in 2017, celebrates the beauty of sign languages and promotes linguistic diversity. Learn more on the United Nations Official Website.

Start the week by joining our “Introduction to Basic American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Culture” session on September 23, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Selkirk Lounge, NDC, facilitated by Cheryle Broszeit and Kyra Zimmer. Space is limited to 20 participants, so we encourage you to register by clicking this link or emailing us at diversity@rrc.ca.

About the Presenters

Cheryle Broszeit is an instructor in the ASL-English Interpretation Program and is currently also teaching ASL classes for beginners through RRC Polytech’s Continuing Education Department. Cheryle has been teaching at the college for 24 years. Cheryle, who is Deaf, comes from a large Deaf family and an active member of the Winnipeg Deaf Community. Cheryle is also an avid photographer, and nature lover who loves to travel.

Kyra Zimmer is an instructor in the ASL-English Interpretation Program and is currently also teaching ASL classes for beginners through RRC Polytech’s Continuing Education Department. Kyra has been teaching at the college for 25 years. Kyra, who is Deaf, comes from a large Deaf family and an active member of the Winnipeg Deaf Community. In her free time Kyra can be found spending time with her family, reading and swimming.

Also, check out local and national organizations that support Deaf communities:

• DeafDots provides news in American Sign Language (ASL) and La langue des signes québécoise (LSQ) for Deaf and hard of hearing Canadians.
• Manitoba Cultural Society of the Deaf supports Deaf and hard of hearing individuals in Manitoba. Their vision is to fully integrate Deaf and non-deaf communities, empowering Deaf culture, arts, and language.
• Manitoba Deaf Sports Association promotes and supports Deaf and hard of hearing individuals through sports, aiming to strengthen and celebrate Deaf culture.
• The Deaf Resource Centre in Manitoba offers resources, programs, and advocacy to enhance the development of the Deaf community.
• The Manitoba Deaf Association supports and creates accessible educational and recreational activities to benefit the Deaf community.

Tuesday, Sept 24, 2024 – Inclusive Education

At RRC Polytech, we’re dedicated to providing equal access and opportunities for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students and employees. Explore our resources on our website:

• Accessibility at RRC Polytech Public Website
  • Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services
• Accessibility at RRC Polytech Internal Site (Staff Forum)
  • Supportive Employment for Staff
  • Accessibility Training and Learning Resources for Staff
  • Accessible Information and Communication Content Creation Resources

RRC Polytech’s Continuing Education department is offering American Sign Language (ASL) classes this Fall 2024. The 4 ASL classes currently being offered are:

• American Sign Language 1 every Tuesday evening from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The class will run from September 3 to December 10, 2024.
•  American Sign Language 2 every Tuesday evening from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The class will run from September 3 to December 10, 2024.
• American Sign Language 3 every Wednesday evening from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The class will run from September 4 to December 11, 2024.
• ASL Bridging 1 every Wednesday evening from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The class will run from September 4 to December 11, 2024.

For more information and to register, visit the program and course catalogue page.

Wednesday, Sept 25, 2024 – Sign Language Advocacy

Many countries still don’t officially recognize their national sign language. The World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) has introduced the Guidelines for Achieving Sign Language Rights to help change this. To read more about this advocacy, visit the World Federation of the Deaf website.

Thursday, Sept 26, 2024 – Building Resilient Deaf Communities

Building resilient Deaf Communities means enhancing their ability to prepare for and respond to emergencies. At RRC Polytech, Deaf and Hard of Hearing students and employees can request individual emergency response plans to stay safe during emergencies. For more details on how to request an Individual Emergency Plan, visit the Supportive Employment page on Staff Forum for employees, or the Student Accessibility Services page on the RRC website for students.

Friday, Sept 27, 2024 – Diversity in Deaf Communities

Explore Canada’s six sign languages, including three Indigenous sign languages, through the Canadian Language Museum’s exhibit, “Sign Language of Canada”. You can visit the virtual exhibit here.

Also, check out videos from the Canadian Language Museum to learn more about the diverse experiences within the Deaf community.

• American Sign Language instructor Art Gunter shares his personal experiences with ASL.
• Deaf Inuit share their stories.
• Isabelle Lepage talks about her experience with LSQ (Langue des signes québécoise).

Saturday, Sept 28 and Sunday Sept 29 – Deaf Cultural Celebrations and Investing In The Future of Deaf Communities

Celebrate Deaf culture and support the future of Deaf communities with these events:

• Deaflympics: A global event showcasing Deaf athletes and celebrating their achievements. The next Deaflympics will be in Tokyo in 2025.
• Clin d’Oeil Festival: An event in Europe featuring Deaf arts, including theatre, film, and visual art.
• Manitoba Cultural Society of the Deaf: A local organization that organizes events to promote Deaf culture throughout the year.