Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Cultural Safety

SHCHC's mission is rooted in compassion, dignity, and respect for all individuals. As a health and social services agency, we are committed to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and cultural safety (EDI/CS) in every aspect of our work, from the care we provide to the relationships we build within our teams and communities. We believe that embracing diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences strengthens our organization and enriches our community.

We recognize that health disparities and social inequities are deeply linked to systemic racism, discrimination, stigma and marginalization. We are dedicated to breaking down these barriers and promoting a culture where every person receives equitable access to care, support, and opportunities, regardless of their identity or background.

We recognize that systemic inequities have historically marginalized many communities, and we are committed to taking actionable steps to address these disparities. We strive to create an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.

Our commitment:

• Cultural safety: SHCHC is committed to providing culturally safe, respectful, and inclusive services for all individuals and communities we serve. We recognize that culture shapes people’s health beliefs, experiences, identities, and access to care, and that systemic inequities, colonization, stigma, and discrimination continue to impact the well-being of Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, and other marginalized groups. Cultural safety goes beyond cultural awareness or sensitivity. It requires us to actively examine power imbalances, challenge systemic racism and discrimination, and create spaces where clients feel physically, emotionally, spiritually, and socially safe. Cultural safety is defined by those receiving care, not by those providing it.

• Equity: We are committed to ensuring fair treatment, access, opportunities, and advancement for all individuals while striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups. We are committed to removing structural barriers and ensuring that services, supports, and opportunities are accessible and responsive to the unique needs of individuals and communities, especially those who have been historically underserved.

• Diversity: We celebrate the rich diversity of the people we serve and those with whom we work. We strive to create welcoming, safe, and culturally responsive environments where clients, employees, and community members feel respected, heard, and empowered to participate fully.

• Inclusion: We are committed to advancing a culture where all individuals are welcomed, heard, and supported, and where diverse voices are actively included.

We understand that real change takes time, intention, and consistent effort, and we are dedicated to leading with purpose. We vision the following elements of this work:

• Acknowledging the legacy of colonization, intergenerational trauma, and ongoing systemic barriers, particularly for Indigenous peoples.
• Engaging in critical self-reflection at all levels of the organization to address unconscious bias and institutional practices that may cause harm.
• Embedding EDI/CS principles in client care, organizational practices, governance, policy, and culture.
• Providing regular EDI/CS training and development for employees, leadership, and governance.
• Partnering with equity-seeking communities to co-design solutions and inform service delivery.
• Monitoring and sharing our progress data collection and continuous improvement.

We recognize that progress requires courage, humility, and sustained commitment. We are dedicated to building trusting, reciprocal relationships with the communities we serve and to nurturing a more just, inclusive, and compassionate health and social services system.

Black Lives Matter

The Sandy Hill Community Health Centre stands in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement.