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Kwantlen Polytechnic University – KPU

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The pride movement has made significant progress over the past few decades but what has also become more evident are the huge gaps and inequities that persist among 2SLGBTQ+ people, as in our society in general, due to factors such as race, gender, disability, socio-economic background, religion, and nationality. As we strive to create safer, more inclusive spaces and greater justice for people of all genders and sexuality, we must also work to eliminate the systemic bias that continues to hold back, silence, and abuse many of us just for being who we are.

Dr. Romy Kozak
Director of Diversity and Pride Advocacy Group Co-Chair
Kwantlen Polytechnic University

As Canada’s only polytechnic university, KPU is committed to providing learners with opportunities to develop hands-on, applied skills, in addition to traditional academics. We proudly share our name with the Kwantlen First Nation and the spirit of its meaning “tireless runner” which is reflected in our motto: “through tireless effort, knowledge and understanding”. Established in 1981, the university has five campuses across three Metro Vancouver cities (Surrey, Richmond, Langley) which overlap with the unceded traditional and ancestral lands of the Kwantlen, Musqueam, Katzie, Semiahmoo, Tsawwassen, Qayqayt and Kwikwetlem peoples. KPU currently offers a range of degrees, diplomas, certificates, and citations in 120 diverse programs, many of which are unique to the university. Students graduate career-ready and prepared to make a positive impact in their community thanks to a well-rounded education.

Commitment to Diversity

KPU is committed to actively fostering an equitable and inclusive learning and working environment that enables every member of our diverse community to thrive. Building such an environment is essential to our evolution into a unique, progressive and highly regarded university that upholds a culture of sustainability, creativity and quality.

KPU’s President's Diversity and Equity Committee monitors and ensures our university-side Diversity and Inclusiveness policy and procedure and also sponsors a wide range of EDI-related events and initiatives. We are currently in the process of developing an EDI Action Plan that will incorporate the results of institution-wide research as well as insights and recommendations from groups such as the KPU Task Force on Antiracism, the Indigenous Advisory Committee, the Disability Inclusion Group, and the Pride Advocacy Group. KPU has participated in Vancouver and Surrey Pride celebrations for many years, serving as a community partner and "Toonie Brigade" in the last several Vancouver Pride parades. We are making our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion visible on all campuses through the painting of the Progress Pride flag (or colours) on pillars, crosswalks, pathways, or staircases.

Vision for the Future

KPU is a learning ecosystem rooted in a culture of sustainability, creativity and quality that inspires our people and our communities. Our goal is not only to reflect our diverse, dynamic and growing region, but also to enable our students, employees, and friends to enjoy rich, engaging and supportive educational and working experiences, and to contribute to the development of a more just society.

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© Pride at Work Canada 2016