Addressing inequalities and cultivating more inclusive spaces is predicated upon both consciously identifying barriers and actively seeking to mitigate them. In the community and leadership organizations I have the privilege of working with, I periodically take a step back to ask myself how each organization could be more inclusive. This is always a work in progress, from ensuring adequate representation across groups to using inclusive language.

I am also a huge proponent of political engagement and collective activism to engender meaningful change. I practice global citizenship by exposing my views to critique through authoring original op-eds and articles for policy journalism initiatives.

Respecting and enacting the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion cannot merely be an end to be reached. It is an ongoing endeavour for every individual and group – and we all have a unique role to play.

Canadian society and its institutions continue to make social progress, but there remains significant work to be done to cultivate a more equal, caring, and just society. Achieving this requires re-centring power and autonomy in the hands of underprivileged individuals and communities. In the context of healthcare, this entails placing a greater emphasis on patient-centred care and remediating the traditionally hierarchical nature of medicine. Honouring the right of underprivileged communities to exercise their autonomy is paramount for creating a more inclusive society. Greater effort also needs to be undertaken on the part of governments, community organizations, and academic institutions to promote cultural competency and safety. This provides space for marginalized individuals to be seen, heard, and to lead in traditionally exclusive spaces.