The time of the JEDI movement has arrived

Luke Skywalker might be the most famous Jedi in the galaxy, but it is not the JEDI we are happy to say is finally making waves. For far too long, institutions have been dominated by a lack of diversity and representation of marginalized groups and we have suffered collectively because of it. The tides are finally turning. A recent article published by the International Joint Commission (IJC) looks at how there has been a recent push in science and decision-making processes to amplify and centre voices of historically marginalized groups. Although the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) movement has been gaining momentum over the last few years, the social and political events of 2020 highlighted the need for immediate changes to how we do business-as-usual.  

The article highlights some of the discussions and movements being led by Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) in various organizations. One such example is the JEDI panel at this years IAGLR conference where BIPOC from around the world, including two of our HHL staff, shared some of their experiences and barriers as a POC in science. Another great feature was the work of community groups in Detroit, fighting to secure clean water – an issue near and dear to our hearts as First Nations all over Canada still do not have access to clean drinking water despite decades of government promises.  

Our lab’s founder, Catherine Febria shares how our lab has grown to include 7 Indigenous researchers and is committed to growing partnership networks with those who are most connected to the land and those most likely to be negatively affected by environmental crises.’   

Although there is much work to be done, our lab believes that the challenges we face as a society require us to draw from a diversity of strengths, insights and lived experiences. We strive to be an ally to Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) in our team, in the local communities where we live and work, across Canada and worldwide. The first steps are to identify and address barriers within our own organizations and to proactively work toward a more just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive future. 

You can read the full article featured in the IJC October 2020 Great Lakes Connection HERE.