Equity, Diversity and Inclusion on Campus

News and Events

Inclusion Week 2025

February 12, 2025

RRC Polytech’s third annual Inclusion Week is March 3 to 7, 2025! The week-long event is filled with in-person and virtual opportunities for students, staff and faculty to learn how to embody equity, diversity, and inclusion at work, in class, and in our personal lives.

We strive to host accessible events. If you require an accommodation, please email diversity@rrc.ca.

Diversity counts on our campuses. At RRC Polytech, we are committed to pursuing equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in everything we do – and to do this, we need to know who’s here at the College. By completing the Student and Employee Diversity Self-Identification Survey, you will help us assess our current EDI initiatives, programs and policies and help us make meaningful progress in our shared priorities


Schedule of Events

Monday, March 3

Tuesday, March 4

Wednesday, March 5

Thursday, March 6

Friday, March 7

Self-Guided Resources

Social Justice Coffee House

February 12, 2025

With the success of our first social justice coffee house, we’re pleased to host another one during Inclusion Week 2025! All staff, faculty, and students are invited to be a part of this event. Whether you want to be a performer or simply attend, we welcome you to participate!

This year’s theme is food insecurity. Compassion and understanding are key to tackling this issue, helping us address the root causes and create real change. Want to learn more about food insecurity? Check out these resources:

Event Details:

  • Date: March 5, 2025
  • Time: 10:30 a.m.– 11:30 a.m.
  • Location: Roundhouse Auditorium (Second Floor), Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, Exchange District Campus

What to Expect: 

  • You can share readings (poetry, fiction, or non-fiction), sing, engage in discussions, or take part in discussing food insecurity. Our goal is to create a safe space to express your thoughts, connect with others, and learn together.
  • Collecting Donations: Bring donations of snacks, non-perishable food, gently used winter clothing, travel-sized hygiene items, or new socks. All donations will be shared with Community 204, an organization that support people experiencing housing insecurity in Winnipeg.

Why Attend?

  • Express Yourself: This is a safe space to share your thoughts on important social justice issues.
  • Connect with Peers: Meet others who are passionate about creating positive change.
  • Learn and Grow: Gain new perspectives on social justice and food insecurity.

How to Participate:

  • Perform or Present: If you’d like to perform or present, please fill out the form below to share what you’d like to contribute.
  • Be an Audience Member: If you’re not performing, your presence and support will make a difference! Please fill out the form to let us know you’ll be attending. Afterward, you’ll receive a meeting invite to hold the space in your calendar.
  • Registration Form via MS Forms.

Refreshments:
Enjoy complimentary coffee and light snacks throughout the event.

Empowering Voices, Amplifying Black Narratives in Leadership – A Black History Month Event

February 11, 2025

The Afro-Caribbean Mentorship Program (ACMP), in partnership with RRC Polytech, University of Manitoba, and University of Winnipeg, will host one of its most popular annual Black History Month programs.

This event will celebrate the Black African Diaspora community in Canada and pay homage to the great accomplishments of the Black African Diaspora people throughout history, leading to the present.

The event will feature the Honourable Uzoma Asagwara, Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care, as the keynote speaker, panel discussions, Black business showcases, bursaries for Black African Diaspora students (secondary and post-secondary Winnipeg students), recognition for trailblazers in the Black African Diaspora Winnipeg community and much more.

  • When: Friday, February 28, 2025
  • Time: 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • Location: Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, Exchange District Campus, RRC Polytech (319 Elgin Ave.)

Register for free on the Afro-Caribbean Mentorship Program website.

Black History Month

January 29, 2025

Image featuring an orange background and two hands, richly decorated with colourful patterns, clasped together. On either side of the hands, there are boxes filled with patterns and colours.

February is recognized as Black History Month, a time to reflect on and celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black individuals and communities. The theme for 2025 is “Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations”.

At RRC Polytech, we recognize the importance of Black history and culture in shaping a more inclusive and vibrant community. We are committed to creating a space where everyone feels welcome and valued.

Ways to learn more and celebrate Black History Month:

Holiday Greetings from RRC Polytech

December 19, 2024

The holiday season is a time when the snow assembles, and it’s also a time for families, friends and loved ones to assemble in celebration – to foster hope, love and new beginnings.

As this year comes to an end, RRC Polytech would like to extend its best wishes and heartfelt gratitude to each one of you and your loved ones.

We are proud and grateful for the diversity and richness every member of our community brings to our campus, and recognize the importance of fostering inclusion and respect for all cultures, traditions and beliefs.

While you connect and celebrate with your loved ones, remember that the holiday season holds a different meaning for everyone. Whether it’s Yule, Winter Solstice, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas, New Year’s or another holiday, let’s honour and embrace the rich diversity of cultures and celebrations.

Here are the dates of some holidays celebrated in December:

  • Yule: Saturday, December 21
  • Winter Solstice: Sunday, December 22
  • Hanukkah: begins Wednesday, December 25
  • Christmas Day: Wednesday, December 25
  • Kwanzaa: Thursday, December 26

We encourage everyone to share their traditions and celebrations by completing the Celebrate Everything form. By sharing what you celebrate, you’re helping inform what RRC Polytech shares year-round for special holidays and days of importance in Staff and Student News as well as the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion on Campus blog.

Let’s continue to carry forward the values of kindness, compassion, inclusion, and mutual respect as we move on to new beginnings with the New Year.

Once again wishing everyone a joyful, peaceful and prosperous holiday season!

Human Rights Day 2024

December 6, 2024

Human Rights Day is observed globally on December 10, in recognition of the United Nations General Assembly’s proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948.

The UDHR outlines the fundamental rights of all humans – including equality, life, freedom, and security – regardless of religion, language, gender, race, colour, opinion, property, or status.

Ways to Participate in Human Rights Day

Learning about human rights helps empower us to advocate for our rights and the rights of others.

For Human Rights Day 2024, the United Nations’ theme is Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now. The theme speaks to the everyday importance and relevance of human rights in our lives, acknowledging that we must do our part to speak up against hateful speech, correct misinformation, and counter disinformation. Together, we can mobilize global efforts towards a better, more equitable future for all.

Local Events in Celebration of Human Rights Day

Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights on Tuesday, December 10, to enjoy free admission along with special programming and activities. Learn more at humanrights.ca.

Stop by The Forks on Tuesday, December 10, at 1:00 p.m. for a free Art + Human Rights Walking Tour. Hosted in collaboration with CMHR and Synonym Art Consultation, join artists Val Vint, KC Adams, and Jaimie Isaac, to gain insight on how art can share human rights stories, reflect the importance of place, and call for action. Register online at theforks.com.

A Message on the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

December 6, 2024

The following message contains content related to gender-based violence that may trigger powerful emotions to arise, especially for those with lived experience of violence and victimization. It is recommended you read the message when you feel safe and supported.  Resources are available for those affected by gender-based violence, including REES (Respect Educate Empower Survivors), a community for survivors, a 24-7 Crisis Line, Gender-Based Violence Support in Manitoba and  additional support services. 

Every year on December 6, RRC Polytech recognizes the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women today. Today marks 35 years since the tragic murders of these 14 young women at École Polytechnique in Montreal. 

We remember: Geneviève Bergeron, Hélène Colgan, Nathalie Croteau, Barbara Daigneault, Anne-Marie Edward, Maud Haviernick, Maryse Laganière, Maryse Leclair, Anne-Marie Lemay, Sonia Pelletier, Michèle Richard, Annie St-Arneault, Annie Turcotte, and Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz. 
 

These young women were deprived of their bright futures and opportunities to contribute to our society, with many close to graduating and having jobs lined up for them. 

This day serves as a solemn reminder to honour the 14 women who were killed and the 14 others who were injured on December 6, 1989 – at the hands of someone who claimed to be “fighting feminism.”  

Though 35 years have passed, the struggle against gender-based violence remains. In Canada and globally, women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals continue to face discrimination and violence. One in 3 women will experience violence in their lifetime which is not only frightening but also concerning.  

This day is not only a time to remember this tragedy but also all those who have experienced gender-based violence. To create a meaningful change, we must work together to eliminate the numbers entirely by protecting our sisters, mothers, friends, colleagues, partners and even strangers from harm. 

Everyone—especially men and boys— has a duty to challenge societal norms, attitudes, and behaviors triggering gender-based violence. Together, we can take the first step toward building a future prioritizing the needs and safety of women. 

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) (November 25 to December 10) calls for action to end GBV worldwide. Aligning with this year’s theme, Come Together, Act Now, reminds us, we all have a responsibility in creating a world free from violence—every day, everywhere.  

This morning, RRC Polytech is hosting a Vigil at The Cave(Notre Dame Campus) from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., to commemorate those we’ve lost, and foster hope and healing for a future free from violence. We invite staff and students to come together in solidarity to honour these 14 women and strengthen our commitment to putting an end to gender-based violence. 

Our flags are lowered at half-mast, and we encourage every student, staff and faculty member to attend the vigil or observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m., whether in the classroom, your workspace or at home. There is also a Reflection Room today from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. in the City View Room (Fourth Floor), Manitou a bi Bii daziigae. 

Other ways you can show your support:  

Today, as we grieve and remember the lives of these 14 women, let us hold onto hope for a safer and brighter future for women, girls, and gender-diverse folks. It is our shared responsibility to create a community and environment where everyone can live free from fear. 

December 6 can be an incredibly difficult day for many. If you need someone to talk to, support and help for students is available through Campus Well-Being. Staff have access to an Employee and Family Assistance Program through Homewood Health. Please take good care of yourselves and those around you. 

World AIDS Day

December 2, 2024

On December 1, World AIDS Day is observed globally, a tradition that began in 1988. At the time, fear, panic, and paranoia surrounded a new disease scientists were just beginning to understand. During the 1980s, HIV and AIDS devastated the lives of many queer individuals around the world. While the 2SLGBTQIA+ community experienced significant losses during this time, the disease does not discriminate. It affects men, women, children, low-income families, high-income families, straight people, queer people—everyone.

In 1988, the World Health Organization (WHO) designated December 1st as World AIDS Day. This day is dedicated to remembering those who lost their lives to the disease, combating the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, and inspiring global action to end this preventable condition.

What is HIV/AIDS?

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is an infection that attacks the body’s immune system by targeting white blood cells. This weakens the body’s defenses, making individuals more susceptible to infections, certain cancers, and diseases like tuberculosis. HIV is transmitted through bodily fluids, including blood, vaginal fluid, semen, and breast milk. Importantly, it cannot be spread through casual contact, such as hugging or kissing.

When left untreated, HIV can progress to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), a condition that significantly compromises the immune system and is often fatal.

How Can I Prevent HIV/AIDS?

The best way to prevent HIV/AIDS is through education and awareness. Understanding how the virus is transmitted and knowing the options available if diagnosed with HIV are crucial for prevention.

Key prevention methods include:

  • Using condoms (male or female) during intercourse.
  • Not sharing needles or syringes if you use injectable drugs.
  • Taking Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) if you are at higher risk of contracting HIV.

Regular testing is another vital step. Many people unknowingly spread HIV because they are unaware they have it. Testing is simple and accessible, with options like at-home kits available for those uncomfortable visiting a clinic.

If you test positive for HIV, while it can be shocking, it is important to remember that it is a treatable condition. Advances in medicine have made effective treatment possible. With proper care, individuals can achieve an undetectable viral load, meaning the virus cannot be transmitted to others.

HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Although HIV can seem overwhelming, it is not the only risk associated with unprotected sex. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) can happen to anyone. Some people view STIs as embarrassing or taboo, but they are no different from catching a cold or the flu—sometimes, they just happen!

Many common STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, are easily treatable with a course of antibiotics.

Local Support and Testing Resources

Recently, RRC Polytech Health Services held a Sexual Health and Testing Clinic. Due to an overwhelming response, all available appointments were fully booked. If you missed out, don’t worry! Our Health Services team offers a variety of resources and support year-round for both staff and students.

Some of the resources available through Health Services are:

  • Take home HIV testing kits
  • Registered nurses for hands-on-care
  • Pamphlets and information about STIs and HIV/AIDS
  • And more!

Health Services is located at the Notre Dame Campus, room HM08 and can be accessed Monday through Friday,  8:00 a.m.  – 4:00 p.m.

Other 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)

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence 2024

November 24, 2024

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.

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is an annual global campaign aimed at raising awareness and advocating for the elimination of GBV. The #16Days begin on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, include the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women on December 6, and end on December 10, International Human Rights Day. These days of significance highlight the link between violence against women and girls and the violation of human rights.

1 in 3 women will experience violence in their lifetime. This number increases during humanitarian emergencies or when women lack access to essential rights such as education and healthcare. 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.

This year, the United Nations’ theme for #16Days is #NoExcuse UNiTE to End Violence Against Women, because every 10 minutes a woman is killed. The crisis of gender-based violence is urgent globally, nationally, and right here at home.

How can you raise awareness and help eliminate gender-based violence?

Aligning with the Government of Canada’s theme for 2024, Come Together, Act Now, it is critical that everyone – including men and boys – come together to change societal norms, attitudes and behaviours that contribute to GBV. It is a call to learn and recognize the signs and take action to seek support for loved ones or ourselves.

  • Learn more about gender-based violence
  • Find out about 16 ways you can help end gender-based violence
  • Check out It’s Not Just, a youth awareness campaign to end gender-based violence
  • Attend an event in your community to support victims and survivors of gender-based violence. More details about RRC Polytech’s Dec 6 Vigil, below.
  • Wear a white ribbon to signify your commitment to eliminating 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

Dec 6 Vigil: National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

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.

  • Date and Time: Friday, December 6, 2024, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
  • Location: The Cave, Notre Dame Campus (Mall Level, Building D)
  • 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.

Dec 6 Vigil: National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

November 21, 2024

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 D)
  • 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 Room at EDC
    • Friday, Dec 6 from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. in the City View Room (Fourth Floor), Manitou a bi Bii daziigae.
  • 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 are available as of Monday, December 2 at the following on-campus locations:

  • Exchange District Campus
    • Campus Store – Main floor of Building P
    • Security Services – Manitou a bi Bii daziigae (main floor)
    • Security Services – Paterson GlobalFoods Institute, Room 100
    • RRC Polytech Students’ Association Office – P110
       
  • Notre Dame Campus
    • Campus Store – Mall Level (just off the bus loop)
    • Security Services – C115
    • RRC Polytech Students’ Association Office – CM-20 (Mall Level, C Building)

RRC Polytech campuses are located on the lands of Anishinaabe, Ininiwak, Anishininew, Dakota, and Dené, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

We recognize and honour Treaty 3 Territory Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, the source of Winnipeg’s clean drinking water. In addition, we acknowledge Treaty Territories which provide us with access to electricity we use in both our personal and professional lives.

Learn more ›