Diversity & inclusion
The English department strives to be responsive to the changing needs of students and teachers of English and to the many people and socio-cultural communities that define the vibrancy and resiliency of our discipline.
We believe that how we use words matters—in language, in literature, in culture. We strive to study language holistically, including in ways that acknowledge not only its potential to cause harm and incite social violence, but also its capacity to recognize historical differences and to work toward redressing the injustices that arise from them. As equity has no terminal point, it can only be achieved through active pursuit as an ongoing goal and ongoing process.
The English department is committed to providing an environment for all students, staff, and faculty that is safe, inclusive and respectful.
We affirm the diverse identities of persons and the rights all individuals have to be treated with dignity and respect irrespective of their gender, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, class or national origin. This basic commitment entails, among other things, specific recognition and support for trans, queer, two-spirited and non-binary people.
Student liaison
In response to the recommendation by the University’s Equity Action Plan that we “honour student perspectives on belonging and inclusion and engage with students to improve teaching and program development,” the Department of English has created the position of student liaison.
The task of the liaison will be to:
- listen to student concerns related to the classroom, courses or departmental culture more generally
- represent students to the department or to advocate on their behalf when appropriate
- support the department in remaining accountable to its own Equity Statement
All communications will remain confidential unless otherwise specified. The position is currently held by Dr. Christopher Douglas.
