May 27th – USJE’s Equity Conference kicked off in Halifax, Nova Scotia this morning. Nearly 50 delegates and USJE elected officials from across Canada have gathered for the week-long event at the Westin Nova Scotian, Halifax’s most historic hotel.
This year’s theme “Taking Action for Equity” inspired an exciting program aiming to foster dialogue and identify tangible ways to advance USJE’s commitment to pursuing equity and diversity goals.
All equity-deserving groups officially recognized by PSAC will be represented throughout the week. USJE Equity Committee Chair Shauna Ward, Co-chair Kirk McIntosh alongside all members of the National Equity Committee members proudly welcomed delegates.
Following the land acknowledgement, Mi’kmaq Elder Geri LeBlanc was invited to provide an opening prayer on the ancestral land of the Mi’kmaq nation and the city of Kjipuktuk (Halifax).
USJE was also honoured to have Halifax Mayor Andy Fillmore provide introductory remarks on behalf of the city and highlighted the complex and rich culture and history of this wonderful city.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew also sent video greetings from his office in Winnipeg, the host city of the previous Equity Conference.
The afternoon session featured:
- Dr Lynn Jones, a life-long civil and human rights activist, an educator, community, labour organizer, and recipient of the Order of Canada. Saint Mary’s University, in cooperation with Dr. Lynn Jones (C.M.), African Nova Scotian leader and activist, now proudly houses The Lynn Jones African Canadian & Diaspora Heritage Collection in the University Archives.
- USJE’S own Burcu Gürkan who, in her capacity as chair of PSAC’s National Capital Region’s Women’s Committee, provided the delegates with her insights and expertise on issues facing women in the workplace and the Canadian job market. Before entering the public service, Burcu spent nearly 20 years as a post-secondary educator, specializing in gender and feminist theory.
- To close the day, all delegates were greeted by a video message from British author Robert Tregoning whose illustrated book “Out of the Blue” was read and offered to all participants.
The day ended with an exciting performance by the South-Indian cultural association of the Maritimes.
Highlights from USJE’s Equity Conference are broadcasted live to the benefit of the entire USJE membership.