As educators, we are called to honour diversity in the learning environment by taking each child’s background and experiences into account when designing learning activities and experiences. So how does this translate to regulatory governance?
The varying perspectives on Council allow for more effective governance and strategic oversight, enabling the College to best fulfil its mandate of protecting the public. A diverse Council lends its ear to listening to the voices of the profession and of the public that, historically, have not been heard. In a profession as unique and diverse as the children and families it supports, Council needs a multidimensional group of elected members to best represent the dynamic communities in which we live and work.
Unique perspectives in governance help to eliminate potential discrimination in policy development; enable the College to develop resources that support all members of the profession; and, inspire fellow Council peers to take new approaches to problem solving and decision-making.
With elections coming up in Districts 3, 4 and 8, I want to particularly encourage members who identify as Black, Indigenous or Persons of Colour to consider bringing their unique experiences and perspectives to enhance our work as a Council. I also ask that members voting in this year’s elections consider selecting candidates that best represent your communities. A diverse Council is important: it brings together the breadth of perspectives needed to effectively govern a diverse profession.
It’s your diverse profession – take the lead!
– Stacey Lepine RECE, Council President