Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The Children’s Aid Society of Oxford County values diversity and inclusion, and respects the dignity, beliefs, and ideas of individuals. We are committed to creating an environment of equity and inclusion so that every individual can work and receive services with dignity and respect.
Organization Statement of Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The Children’s Aid Society of Oxford County will achieve equity, diversity, and inclusion in our practices, community, and outcomes.
We are a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone regardless of their gender expression, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation, First Nations and/or Aboriginal affiliation or identity, education, or ability, feels valued and respected. We are committed to a non-discriminatory and an anti-oppressive approach and intend to provide equal opportunity for employment and advancement. We respect and value diverse life experiences and heritages and ensure that all voices are valued and heard.
We are committed to modeling diversity and inclusion for the child welfare field and to maintaining an inclusive environment with equitable treatment for all.
At The Children’s Aid Society of Oxford County, there is zero tolerance for all forms of oppression, discrimination, racism, anti-Indigenous racism, anti-Black racism, anti-Asian racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, religious/creed discrimination, homophobia, transphobia, any discrimination against invisible or visible disabilities, hate and racial violence, and violence against women. As an organization we are committed to human rights, respect, diversity, equity, and inclusion; we dedicate our efforts to combat racism, discrimination, hate and violence in our organization and within the community.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion is recognized as an organizational priority, with everyone within the organization holding responsibility for integrating equitable practice and outcomes.
We will provide equitable and inclusive services that are focused on the safety and well-being of children and youth within their individual family, community, and unique lived experiences.
We will take decisive and intentional actions in disrupting the oppressive structures, processes, and practices that have led to the underrepresentation of equity-seeking groups in our workplace, and the over-representation of Indigenous, Black, and 2SLGBTQ+ children, youth and families involved in child welfare.
The diversity of our workforce will be present at every level of the organization and in every service area. The Children’s Aid Society of Oxford County is committed to having a workforce that is reflective of the diversity of the communities that we serve.
Human Resource practices and processes will integrate equity strategies to facilitate those who have been marginalized, equity-seeking groups, and communities, having access to employment opportunities, where they have been historically underrepresented due to systemic barriers within the organization.
Communication is respectful between all individuals regardless of position or level of authority.
Insights from diverse groups are actively sought and welcomed; staff report their background and lifestyle do not affect perceptions of them as a professional or affect their opportunities for development and promotion.
Employees are aware of bias and use active strategies/tools to minimize its impact/influence on decision-making and interactions.
In respecting and valuing the diversity among our employees, third-party service providers, those with whom we work alongside, serve, and partner with, are expected to ensure that there is a work environment free of all forms of unlawful discrimination and all forms of harassment.
Resources
As the child welfare sector, we know there is an over representation of Black and Indigenous children in care and a disparity in service. It is our commitment that service delivery ensures that children, youth and families with diverse identities are aware of, and have access to, diverse community services and resources that will support their intersecting needs and identities.