Support and resources for BIPOC employees and managers
Support and resources for BIPOC employees and managers – Joint Statement from Human Resources and Equity and Inclusion Offices
McMaster University has expressed the profound sadness we all feel following the recent incidents of anti-black racism in the United States and in Canada, and we extend our heartfelt support to Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Colour (BIPOC) community members, and particularly to Black staff, faculty and students
As noted in President David Farrar’s message to our community, “we acknowledge the deep pain, grief, and harm that members of our communities, particularly Black communities, are experiencing at this time.” Members of BIPOC communities have been historically oppressed, dehumanized, traumatized, and subjected to varied forms of social injustice and violence. As a community that deeply values its people and strives to cultivate human potential, we unequivocally denounce any form of racism.
As our community continues to cope with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is even more critical to support each other during these disquieting times. It is during moments of great crises, that we are often presented with opportunities for leadership and action. Managers are encouraged to lead from a position of compassion and humility, and be supportive and understanding to members within your teams who have been particularly impacted by pandemic-related challenges as well as anti-Black racism. Affected employees might need to make use of arrangements for paid time away, access wellness supports, and seek other accommodations and supervisors are asked to be thoughtful in responding to such requests and to seek the guidance of Human Resources Services to ensure that all employees receive the support they need to navigate these challenging issues. We remind all employees of our shared commitment to a workplace that is free of discrimination and harassment, as we promote an environment that values inclusivity, teamwork and the need to be kind to one another. Employees who need additional support during this time are encouraged to connect with their manager and are also able to access various university offices or benefits offered by the University.
We have been asked by President David Farrar, “to consider the actions that need to be taken — individually and collectively — to address these serious and divisive issues and inequities, and to move our community and institution forward.” Our actions must be guided by thoughtful reflection, respect and understanding, as we seek to identify solutions to deep-rooted issues impacting our community, our institutions and society.
A variety of offices and groups on campus including the Equity and Inclusion Office and Human Resources Services, will continue to work closely with, the President’s Advisory Committee on Building an Inclusive Community, the African and Caribbean Faculty Association of McMaster, and the Indigenous Education Council, to seek deeper understanding and provide adequate supports to BIPOC members within our communities.
Employees are encouraged to participate in the various virtual events being organized to address issues of equity, inclusion and anti-racism, and to support BIPOC community members, such as the upcoming Let’s Talk About Race event on Thursday, June 18th from 11:30am–1:00pm. Employees interested in joining broader McMaster community efforts to address issues of equity, inclusion and anti-racism, may contact the Equity and Inclusion Office.
McMaster employees can access confidential support through Homewood Health, the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP). Homewood provides counselling and life coaching services to aid with mental health, career, life balance, health management and overall personal well-being. Expert information and crisis support are available 24 hours a day, seven days per week, online and by telephone to access services.
For more equity, diversity and inclusion information, supports and resources for employees and managers, contact the Employment Equity Team in Human Resources Services.
Arig al Shaibah (AVP, Equity and Inclusion) and Wanda McKenna (AVP and Chief Human Resources Officer)
Equity & Inclusion, Things to Know, TMG