The ATA welcomed local Diversity, Equity and Human Rights (DEHR) chairs from across Alberta for their first annual training session. Held in Edmonton, the two-day event focused on enhancing the understanding of DEHR-related issues in the profession.
The session began with a plenary address by Kathryn Oviatt, KC, chief of the Commission and Tribunals of the Alberta Human Rights Commission. Commenting that the ATA has always been a great champion of human rights, Oviatt said that this new training for DEHR chairs is an example of how the community can lead the way on human rights issues.
“We all have a responsibility to nurture and cultivate human rights, whether that be in our schools for our precious students, for each other in our workplaces, or even within our own homes and communities,” Oviatt said.
Acknowledging that the work of fostering equality and reducing discrimination is not easy, Oviatt urged participants to remain diligent and hopeful in their work to nurture equity and inclusion in their schools and communities. She also encouraged them to focus on sources of hope, including their students, colleagues and communities.
“Be kind and inclusive and prioritize equality, knowing that although there are challenges, there are also champions and heroes among us.”
In addition to the plenary session, participants received a taste of ATA workshops on gender bias and on culturally responsive teaching and information on Indigenous education resources. Participants also engaged in strategic planning to connect and share their ideas for starting and sustaining change in their local contexts.
Andrea Berg, executive staff officer, said that the event served as a milestone in the ATA’s commitment to equity and professional collaboration, setting the stage for ongoing dialogue and shared learning among diversity leaders.
“This was an exciting opportunity for DEHR chairs to learn from each other and to plan together,” Berg said. “This is just the first of many steps in supporting this vital work in locals.”
Planning for future annual training sessions and for the DEHR Conference is already under way, promising even greater opportunities to empower diversity leaders and strengthen community connections. ❚