World AIDS Day is observed on December 1 to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and encourage progress in HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care around the world. First established in 1988 by James Bunn and Thomas Netter, the theme of World AIDS Day 2023 is “Let communities lead” and serves as an opportunity for communities worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show support for those living with HIV, and commemorate those who have passed away from HIV-related illnesses. It is also a reminder of the global struggle to end HIV-related stigma.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is an infection that attacks the body’s immune system. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is the most advanced stage of the disease. HIV targets the body’s white blood cells, weakening the immune system and reducing natural resistance to other diseases. Despite the virus only being identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS, making it one of the most important global public health issues in history.

Please visit the World Health Organization (WHO)’s fact page to read detailed information about the transmission and prevention of HIV.

There is no cure for HIV infection. However, with access to effective HIV prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care, it has become a manageable chronic health condition enabling people living with HIV to lead long and healthy lives. It is treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART) using drugs to stop the virus from replicating in the body, allowing a person’s immune system to get stronger. This helps them to fight other infections, but currently ART must be administered every day for the rest of a person’s life to be effective.

Knowledge is a powerful tool in the fight against HIV/AIDS so promoting understanding and empathy empowers us to protect ourselves, to challenge misconceptions and to become advocates for change. World AIDS Day is a rallying cry for all people to commit to working toward a day when HIV is no longer a public health threat.

RRC Polytech’s Gender and Sexual Diversity (GSD) working group is hosting a presentation about HIV prevention and safety with guest speaker Shauna Fay from Nine Circles Community Health Centre at 11:30 a.m. on December 1^st. All staff and students are welcome to attend, pick up some information pamphlets, enjoy light refreshments and have a chance to win some prizes. Join us in person at The Cave on the Notre Dame Campus or register to join online.

Additional Resources:

Manitoba Health

Manitoba Care Pathway

Manitoba HIV Program

Nine Circles Community Health Centre

Sisters of Fire

World AIDS Day.org

APTN story on spiking HIV rates among Indigenous People

The Bicycle : Fighting AIDS with Community Medicine (video)

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. Resources are available to support those in need, including REES (Respect Educate Empower Survivors), a community for survivors, 24-7 Crisis Line, and additional support services for those affected by gender-based violence. If you are in an emergency situation, please call 9-1-1.

The United Nations’ campaign, 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, is a global movement that calls for the end to violence against women, women-identifying persons, and girls. November 25, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, marks the start of the #16Days, which run through to Human Rights Day on December 10.

Through grassroots organizations and movements, including #MeToo, there’s been global traction to prevent and address the critical human rights issue of gender-based violence. Leading up to International Human Rights Day on December 10, it’s important to recognize that this issue is extremely relevant right now, globally and at home.

As reported by the UN, gender-based violence affects 1 in 3 women, with risks increasing during humanitarian emergencies or when women lack access to essential rights such as education and healthcare.

Moreover, while violence affects women worldwide, certain groups such as women with disabilities, adolescent girls and older women, often face greater barriers in having their voices heard or accessing critical support.

What can you do to raise awareness about and help eliminate gender-based violence?

Aligning with the Government of Canda’s theme for 2023, Listen. Learn. Act., there are several steps you can take:

• Learn more about gender-based violence
• Watch a related movie, video or documentary from the National Film Board of Canada
• 16 ways you can help end gender-based violence
• Become an ally by adopting these simple but powerful actions all year long:
  • Listen: be open to learning from the experiences of others
  • Believe: support survivors and those affected by violence. It is very important that you say the words ‘’I believe you’’ and ‘’This is not your fault’’
  • Educate (yourself and others): learn the facts about GBV; know what your workplace policies say about violence and harassment; take a course; participate in an event
  • Speak out: add your voice to call out violence
  • Intervene: find a safe way to help when you see acts of gender-based violence. Name what you see. Express your concern and ask how you can help. Intervening can also mean providing support and resources
  • Act: give your time or donate to organizations working to end gender-based violence

Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

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 who lost their lives due to violent misogyny.

All are welcome to join Women and Gender Equity Manitoba, RRC Polytech and the community to commemorate the lives of the 14 women and foster hope for a better future free of gender-based violence.

• Wednesday, December 6, 2023 – 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
  Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
  Event program starts at 5:30 p.m.
  Light refreshments and time for community at 6:30 p.m.
  
• Location: Roundhouse Auditorium, Manitou a bii Bii daziigae, Exchange District campus
  319 Elgin Ave., Winnipeg, MB
  Free parking available at Market Lands development lot (site of the former Public Safety building).
  
• The event will also be livestreamed via youtube.com/ManitobaGovernment

On December 6, students and staff are encouraged to observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m. and wear a white ribbon to signify their support for the end to gender-based violence. White ribbons are available at the following on-campus locations as of Friday, December 1:

• Exchange District Campus
  • Campus Store – Main floor of Building P
  • RRC Polytech Students’ Association – P110
  • Security Services – Paterson GlobalFoods Institute, Room 100
     
• Notre Dame Campus
  • Campus Store – Mall Level (just off the bus loop)
  • Parking Services – AB38
  • RRC Polytech Students’ Association – CM20
  • Security Services – C115

Stay tuned to the Diversity blog, Staff Forum, and Staff/Student News for upcoming Human Rights Day posts and resources to support further learning.

The United Nations General Assembly declared December 3 as International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) to raise an understanding of disability issues, and foster support for the rights, dignity, and well-being of persons with disabilities. This year’s theme “United in action to rescue and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for, with and by persons with disabilities,” calls for commitment through enhanced actions and international cooperation, to make the SDGs a reality for, with and by persons with disabilities. Red River College Polytechnic will be signing the SDG accord on November 30, joining hundreds of colleges and universities around the world in a pledge to lead transformative change by sharing and reporting on their progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.

RRC Polytech is committed to continuing its work to remove barriers in post-secondary education, and to promote access and participation in all aspects and activities of the College. The College believes in inclusion, and will continue our work to meet, and exceed where possible, the mandate of The Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA). The following are some of the plans and supports we currently have at the College:

• Accessibility at RRC Polytech 
• Staff Accessibility Page on Staff Forum 
• Student Accessibility Page 

Here are two opportunities to celebrate, learn and commemorate International Day of Persons with Disabilities:

RRC Polytech is committed to fostering an environment that is welcoming, supportive and respectful of the dignity and independence of people with disabilities and will continue to identify and implement strategies to ensure that individuals in the College community have equal opportunity to achieve their employment and educational goals.

 If you have any questions or feedback, please email diversity@rrc.ca

The following message contains content – mentions of transphobia, trans violence, and suicide – that may trigger strong emotions, especially for those with lived experience.  

Post written by Justine Hawley, Chair, Gender and Sexual Diversity Group at RRC Polytech

Transgender individuals have existed throughout history, appearing in various cultures and societies long before the common era. Despite their historical presence, society’s treatment of members of the transgender community has been marked by discrimination, prejudice, and violence. The vast timeline of human existence illustrates the normativity of transgender lives. Despite this, contemporary society still struggles with acceptance and equality for transgender, non-binary, and other gender non-conforming individuals.

The term “trans” serves as an umbrella encompassing a spectrum of gender identities that do not align with an individual’s assigned sex at birth. This definition encapsulates transgender individuals, non-binary persons, and others who transcend conventional gender norms. Despite this broad understanding, societal resistance and discrimination against trans individuals persist, often stemming from ignorance, fear, or deeply ingrained biases.

Transphobia, the systematic prejudice and discrimination against transgender individuals, has created an oppressive environment that deeply affects their lives. This hostility not only threatens their existence but also leads to alarming rates of violence and suicide among the trans community. The struggle against transphobia has left many individuals physically and emotionally scarred, emphasizing the urgency for societal change and acceptance.

Transgender Day of Remembrance, observed annually on November 20th, serves as a poignant reminder of the lives lost to transphobic violence. It is a day to honor the resilience of those who fought for equality, acknowledging their sacrifices and contributions towards a more inclusive society. Taking a moment to reflect on the struggles faced by transgender individuals and commemorating those who are no longer with us is an essential step in advocating for a more equitable future.

Recognizing that a future without trans individuals is untenable and embracing a departure from cisnormativity are crucial steps towards creating a more harmonious and accepting world. It necessitates a collective effort to dismantle discriminatory systems, foster empathy, and celebrate the diversity of human experiences.

In acknowledging the historical presence and ongoing struggles of transgender individuals, we can strive for a society where everyone is respected, valued, and embraced for their unique identities. Embracing inclusivity and understanding is pivotal in building a world where transgender individuals can thrive without fear of discrimination or violence.

If you or anyone you know is in crisis, contact one of these supports for transgender-specific guidance:

• Trans Health Klinic
• Trans Lifeline

If you have any questions or comments, please email us at diversity@rrc.ca.

In 2021, the Manitoba government recognized November as Indigenous Disability Awareness Month (IDAM). Manitobans join people across the country in promoting awareness of the barriers experienced by Indigenous Peoples living with disabilities. IDAM also highlights the achievements of Indigenous Peoples living with disabilities and recognizes the significant contributions they make to our communities.

Canada is a signatory to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and on June 21, 2023, the Government of Canada released an Action Plan guiding implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. The Action Plan includes a measure to ensure that the rights of Indigenous Peoples with disabilities are respected in the design and delivery of government programs, policies and services.

RRC Polytech is committed to continuing its work to remove barriers to education and employment, and to promote access and participation in all aspects and activities of the College. You can read more about the current accessibility initiatives in the 2022-2024 Accessibility Plan and explore staff and student accessibility resources in the links below:

Staff Accessibility Page on Staff Forum

Student Accessibility Page

Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM) has been observed in October in Manitoba since 2010, to celebrate the tremendous contributions persons who experience disability make to our workplaces and communities, and to create opportunities for employers to raise awareness about disability employment issues and promote the benefits of inclusive hiring.

RRC Polytech’s commitment to pursuing equity, diversity and inclusion in everything we do involves removing barriers to access and participation; and fostering work and learning environments that are welcoming, supportive and respectful of the dignity and independence of people with disabilities. Throughout October, we will be featuring examples of how the college advances this commitment and sharing resources to help us advance this commitment in our daily activities.

Keep checking this post in October, as we add new resources or accessibility tips each day, to support us in creating an inclusive and accessible work environment.

If you have any questions or feedback, please email diversity@rrc.ca.

Light it Up! for NDEAM

Light It Up! for National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) has been observed nationally since 2020, on the third Thursday in October. Organizations across the country light up buildings, landmarks or public spaces in purple and blue to observe and ignite conversation about disability inclusion in employment. RRC Polytech will be participating in this event by illuminating the Exchange District Campus in purple and blue, and projecting a “Light It Up!” graphic on Elgin Plaza. 

The Anti-Racism Action Committee is excited to launch the second iteration of the Truth and Reconciliation Community of Practice (TRCP) this fall 2023! 

The TRCP is an RRC Polytech learning community that creates opportunities for staff and faculty to extend and apply their learning, and to take action to advance Truth and Reconciliation and anti-racism. 

Participation in the TRCP will involve a commitment of 10-12 hours throughout Fall 2023. This includes both group discussion, facilitated in circle, and small group or partner discussions, around guided questions that relate to both Truth and Reconciliation and anti-racism. These discussions will guide participants on a journey through the Medicine Wheel and will provide experiential learning around Indigenous teachings. Participation in the TRCP will culminate in a group feast, to celebrate the truth learned and actions taken over the course of the term, as well as to plan next steps.   

Joanna White, Indigenous Curriculum & Cultural Advisor for the Department of Community Services, will be facilitating this series. 

Outcomes: 

Outcomes of participation in the TRCP include:  

• Demonstrating a commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, and the pursuit of EDI.  
• Experiencing and understanding Indigenous teachings, such as circle teaching and the Medicine Wheel.  
• Identifying meaningful opportunities for individual action and engagement relating to reconciliation, and the enhancement of inclusion at RRC Polytech.  

 Key Dates:  

Participation in the TRCP involves the following dates: 

• Initial Truth and Reconciliation Community of Practice Circle: October 19, 11:30 – 12:30 (Prairie Lights, NDC) 
• Truth and Reconciliation Community of Practice Circle: November 2, 11:30 – 12:30 (F205, NDC) 
• Truth and Reconciliation Community of Practice Circle: November 16, 11:30 – 12:30 (F205, NDC) 

• Truth and Reconciliation Community of Practice Group Wrap up & Feast: November 30th, 11:30 – 1:00 (F205, NDC) 
• 4 x 1 hour meetings with small group/learning partner for discussion and reflection (self-directed, in-person or remote) 

Learn more and apply now: 

If you have any questions about the Truth and Reconciliation Community of Practice, please let us know. 

Apply to this iteration of this program here. (Note that priority will be given to individuals who did not participate in the first iteration of the TRCP.) 

This year marks the Intercultural Partnership Program’s twentieth year, and it also marks the program’s first time being held in person since 2019. Over the last year, 69 partnerships have formed through the program, with the goal of building deeper intercultural competence and aligning with RRC Polytech’s commitment to embed equity, diversity and inclusion in everything we do.

About the Intercultural Partnership Program

The program connects local partners (students and staff who are Canadian-raised or have lived in Canada for at least one year) with global partners (immigrant and international students) for friendship and to explore intercultural connections.

The Intercultural Partnership Program invites partners to explore differences in a safe, positive and nurturing environment. It is about understanding each other and moving beyond simple tolerance to embracing differences and giving them equal worth and value.

Each partner has lived through specific, unique experiences, and the program is an opportunity to share experiences and perspectives, helping to reciprocally build deeper understanding.

The Making a World of Difference Award

To celebrate partnerships that exemplify the spirit of the Intercultural Partnership Program, every year two pairs of partners per term (Fall and Winter) are recognized with the Making a World of Difference Award. Specifically, partnerships that:

• Embrace equality within the partnership
• Explore cultural differences together and learning from each other
• Are patient and respectful with themselves and one another
• Deliberately seek out new experiences together and embrace time spent together
• Step outside their everyday comfort zones

Meet the 2022-23 Making a World of Difference Recipients

Sui Hong Ma (global partner) and Heather Holens (local partner), Tourism and Hospitality Management students

Both students in the Tourism and Hospitality Management program, Hong and Heather embraced trying new experiences – from activities to cuisines. Within their partnership, they embarked on experiences together as well as with each other’s friends and families. Together with friends and family, they talked about cultural differences between Canada and Hong Kong.

Hong and Heather focused on listening, remaining open-minded and overall learned how to communicate better. They attribute their experiences and ability to effectively communicate to helping close the gap between local and international students.

“We noticed, acknowledged, and appreciated our differences which made this partnership successful. We both learned new things and accepted each other for the differences that make us special and unique.”

– Sui Hong Ma, global partner

Wilson Plazarte Cumbal, Automotive Technology student (global partner), and Fred Meier, President and CEO (local partner)

Wilson is from Quito, Ecuador and came to Canada in August of 2022 as a student in the Language Training Centre, and Fred is a lifelong Winnipegger. From the get-go, the partners embraced equity within their partnerships, ensuring they both had an opportunity to share ideas for the experiences they were going to participate in.

Wilson and Fred soon realized they shared common interests, both enjoying the outdoors, fishing and hiking, and they worked together to find activities that were important to them both.

Throughout their partnership, Wilson and Fred stepped out of everyday comfort zones and explored new experiences together. They prioritized visiting new places and learning about each other’s cultures. This helped them grow personally and interculturally, and to build a more profound connection with one another.

“The intercultural partnership program has helped us develop a lasting friendship. We learned about unique aspects of each other’s backgrounds, but most of all we learned that even though there are language and cultural differences these make friendships even stronger.”

– Wilson Plazarte Cumbal, global partner

Jenny Martínez, Science Laboratory Technology student (global partner) and Tanya Cole, Nursing Instructor (local partner)

Jenny is originally from Colombia, and moved to Winnipeg from Costa Rica with her family, about a year-and-a-half ago, and local partner, Tanya, is originally from England but has lived in Winnipeg for the past 19 years. After an initial WhatsApp call, the partners discovered a mutual passion for dance. As they shared stories about their lives, education and future aspirations, they discovered many common threads despite coming from different parts of the world.

Jenny and Tanya explored many activities together – from a salsa dance class to visiting a museum to getting creative at a paint pouring class and cooking traditional Colombian food. Throughout their participation in the program, the partners developed a friendship and even brought their children along to partake in activities with them.

“Our experiences in the program helped us feel more connected to our community, within Red River College Polytechnic and also the city of Winnipeg. We have more confidence in our ability to build meaningful relationships with people from different cultural backgrounds – and felt respected and appreciated for our differences.”

– Jenny Martínez, global partner

Ka Cheong Law, Hospitality and Tourism Management student (global partner), and José Manuel Castellón Álvarez, Applied Computer Education Instructor (local partner)

This partnership’s first outing together was a very memorable one – Manuel invited Ka Cheong to attend his Canadian citizenship ceremony. After this, they continued to explore one another’s culture through sharing meals, including shrimp tacos at Manuel’s and Ka Cheong prepared a traditional Chinese hot pot.

Together they talked about a perception held by some of the Asian community that Mexico is a dangerous country, full of drugs and crime. Manuel shared more about his home country of Mexico, highlighting its vibrant culture and celebrations. One interesting difference Ka Cheong discovered was that in Mexican culture death is celebrated through the Day of the Dead festival. Whereas, in Chinese culture death is viewed as “scary and creepy,” noted Ka Cheong. The partners explored many cultural differences and engaged in meaningful conversation around them.

The partnership not only created a bond between Ka Cheong and Manuel, but their sons also became fast friends during the experience.

“The wonderful partnership program created two pairs of buddies. I gained a lot more than I expected from the program. I am looking forward to inviting Manuel to visit my co-op workplace.”

– Ka Cheong Law, global partner

Take Part in the Next Intercultural Partnership Program

Intercultural communication is becoming increasingly important in today’s global environment where personal and professional success implies communicating across cultures and drawing from all perspectives, experiences and worldviews. The Intercultural Partnership Program is a fantastic opportunity for local and global partners alike to develop a partnership that supports valuable intercultural communication and leadership skills; helps build your social and professional networks; gets you out and about exploring Winnipeg; and is a lot of fun!

The program is open to all RRC Polytech students, staff and faculty, with two sessions coming up in August 2023 and January 2024.

For any questions, please email iesupport@rrc.ca.

Canadian Multiculturalism Day is celebrated annually on June 27, to recognize the contributions of multicultural groups and communities to Canadian society. The day is an opportunity to celebrate cultural diversity and reaffirm our commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive Canada.

At RRC Polytech, diversity is one of our greatest strengths and celebrated not only on June 27, but year-round. Several equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) working groups at the College collaborate to help raise awareness of celebrations, holidays and observances that align with equity-deserving groups – Women, Indigenous Peoples, Persons with disabilities, Racialized Persons and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

In recognizing days, weeks or months of importance, the goal is to foster understanding and opportunities for learning, and build more inclusive campuses where everyone feels seen, heard and valued. We recognize that we may not capture every holiday or observance that RRC Polytech staff and students celebrate. To support reflecting the diversity within our communities, you’re invited to share what you celebrate (or commemorate).

Multiculturalism Survey

Take the opportunity to celebrate the cultural diversity that enriches us collectively and reaffirm your commitment to equity, diversity and mutual respect. We will be sharing stories and photos submitted by staff and students to highlight the strong multicultural RRC Polytech community and to learn more about one another.

For any questions about the Multiculturalism Survey, please contact Lauren Dominici at ldominici@rrc.ca.

As of 2015, June was designated as Deafblind Awareness Month, to help Canadians build an understanding and advocate on behalf of those in their community who are deafblind.

What is Deafblindness?

Persons are considered deafblind if they have dual sensory loss, a combined loss of both vision and hearing, such that neither of the senses of vision and hearing can be used as a primary source of gathering accurate information.

The combination of these sensory losses results in significant difficulties in accessing information, learning, communicating and participating.

• Congenital deafblindness occurs when a person becomes deafblind before language development, usually between three months to two years old.
• Acquired deafblindness occurs later in life through accidents, disease or aging, the latter which is the leading cause of deafblindness.

According to CNIB, an estimated 466,000 Canadians over the age of 15 are living with some degree of dual sensory loss. Deafblindness is a relatively low-incidence disability in Canada, affecting about 1% of the population, but is not recognized as distinct by the Federal Government. Many Canadians who are deafblind lack access to supports and services to help them fully engage in their communities.

Resources for further learning:

• Learn more about the experiences of people living with deafblindness:
  • Jane Sayer, one of the founding members of the Manitoba Deaf-Blind Association
  • Abby Sienko, CNIB Youth Council Member
    
• Discover the Deafblind Manual Alphabet, which uses touch as a method of communication.
  
• Watch the video (below) about Camp Manitou’s Deafblind Summer camp, which was the first of its kind to launch in 2018: