Report on the symposium on equity, diversity and inclusion held at College Nordique

From December 4 to 9, 2023, Collège Nordique organized its first symposium on equity, diversity and inclusion (ÉDI). This ambitious event brought together experts from various fields and the Franco-Ténoise community, propelling dialogue and action around crucial themes.

Diverse topics, multiple spheres

Over the course of six intense days, 14 topics touching different spheres of professional and personal life were explored. From aboriginal perspectives to inclusive writing and communication in the workplace, sexual diversity, microaggressions, immigrants, unconscious bias and many others, each theme was meticulously chosen to generate rich and varied discussions.

Plural expertise

Thanks to our partners, including Collège Marie-Victorin and the Institut de recherche sur l'immigration et sur les pratiques interculturelles et inclusives (IRIPII), the symposium welcomed experienced speakers from a variety of fields. Their expertise brought a dynamic dimension to the debates, offering participants an immersive and instructive experience.

The colloquium also provided a forum for speakers from other countries, as Jessica Lontsi testifies: "The colloquium gave me another perspective on CED, and allowed me to rethink my way of thinking".

Multiple benefits

 Organizing a symposium on EDI created a space where meaningful discussions shaped mutual understanding within the Franco-Ténoise community. By reinforcing its role as a catalyst for positive change, Collège Nordique is asserting itself as a committed educational player, contributing to the creation of an inclusive learning environment and shaping a community aware of the importance of equity, diversity and inclusion.

The echo of testimonials resonates as tangible proof of the profound impact that a genuine commitment to IDT can have on a community and beyond.

Testimonials from participants:

"Until now, I tried to act in the way that seemed most inclusive. Thanks to the symposium, I've come to understand that there's no single perception or approach that's best. You have to take the time to understand your environment and ask the people involved. That's what I'll try to do more of in the future, rather than taking things for granted." Patrick 

"I have to admit that the expressions diversity, equity and inclusion, which were totally foreign to my understanding before, had a deeper connotation and clearer explanations after the symposium. I can say today that, thanks to the DCI Colloquium, I have a better understanding of the issues involved in thematic issues." Valérie 

"This symposium enabled me to question my way of doing, thinking and communicating with others, and to make the necessary changes to ensure that my relationships are of high quality on a human level. It brings personal education, understanding and respect between everyone, which is the basis of all human relationships." Margarita

"The quality of the knowledge exchanges and the rich information shared by the researchers really enriched our discussions. I particularly appreciated the clear and enlightening testimonies of the other participants, who were welcomed with respect and attention by the whole team. This experience really made me realize that highlighting one's own reality also requires valuing that of others. In this vast field of circumstantial learning, the symposium brilliantly highlighted the fundamental right to be human." Joelle