Due to severe flooding in July, Barnett House will remain closed until early 2027.
The ATA Library is still open and providing resources to members.
Staff are working from home and continue to serve members online and by phone.
The Southern Alberta Regional Office (SARO) in Calgary is unaffected and conducts business per usual.
The Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) has three Diversity and Equity Networks (DENs), all of which provide a structure for teachers who identify as members of a diverse group to come together to support each other and organize relevant events and services. The three DENS—Teachers with Disabilities (TWD), Together We RISE: Racialized Teachers’ Circle, and ATA Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA)—are self-defining and self-organizing, and create spaces for teachers from across the province to connect.
Below, the DENS share insights into their work.
The Teachers with Disabilities (TWD) DEN is a provincial network that provides a safe and brave space for teachers with disabilities and allies interested in learning more about teachers with disabilities. The DEN is open to all active members.
Our network provides support that enables teachers with disabilities to thrive at work and amplifies their voices as strong contributors to public education. We advocate for an accessible ATA; accessible schools; accurate and positive representation of people with disabilities; and for all Albertans with disabilities to be seen, heard, supported, and valued for their experiences, perspectives and knowledge.
Some notable achievements of this DEN include helping to organize the ATA DEHR conference centered on accessibility, belonging and inclusion; helping the ATA advocate for a just disability policy in the province; and convening a book club for contemporary writing by authors with disabilities. Most importantly, TWD has helped our members grow their sense of belonging, hope and confidence, and supported their self-advocacy and skills in navigating the complexities of teaching in Alberta as teachers with disabilities.
Some events to look forward to are
When we think of racialized teachers, we recognize dedicated professionals whose diverse experiences, perspectives, cultures and talents enrich our schools and enhance student learning. These teachers bring valuable insights and lived experiences that contribute to more inclusive, responsive and welcoming learning environments. At the same time, some may experience barriers, isolation or challenges that require understanding, support and collective action.
The ATA is strongest when every member feels respected, valued and included. The Together We RISE DEN was established to foster a supportive community wherein racialized educators can connect, share experiences, build relationships and learn from one another. Through collaboration and dialogue, the group provides a space to celebrate successes, address challenges and strengthen engagement with the ATA.
The impact of the Together We RISE DEN extends beyond its members. Through mentorship, professional learning, leadership development, advocacy and networking opportunities, the group supports personal and professional growth while promoting greater awareness, understanding and meaningful conversations across the educational community. These efforts contribute to stronger schools, more inclusive workplaces and positive outcomes for students.
We all have a role to play in advancing this work. By listening with openness, learning from the experiences of colleagues, addressing bias, sharing opportunities and fostering inclusive environments, members and allies help build a profession grounded in equity, respect and belonging.
The vision of the Together We RISE DEN is a profession where race is never a barrier to opportunity, leadership or success; where every educator feels respected, represented and empowered; and where the diversity of our membership is reflected and valued at every level of the profession.
The ATA GSA exists to create a safe, welcoming and empowering space for 2SLGBTQIA+ teachers and their allies across Alberta. We foster connection, affirm identity and advocate for equity through education, professional learning and collective action. Our work includes provincial outreach to isolated educators, capacity-building through professional development, and supporting teachers in navigating oppressive systems safely and collaboratively. We champion intersectionality and strive to accept, affirm and uplift the voices and experiences of marginalized educators, including those who are Two-Spirit, racialized or living with disabilities.
The ATA GSA builds partnerships within the Association and beyond, acting as a consultative body, a creator of resources and a hub for collective learning. We aim to connect GSAs across the province, document our histories and celebrate queer joy through events, storytelling and shared learning. Through newsletters, conferences, public education and research initiatives, we strive to diversify the ATA membership and representatives, raise awareness of career pathways, and foster a more inclusive profession and society.
Additional information about ATA DENS, including details on joining a DEN and attending upcoming events, is available at https://abteach.cc/atadens.
