Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The Faculty of Medicine is not only committed to a climate of mutual respect, but also upholds the highest standards of ethical and professional behaviour, in keeping with the values of the University of Ottawa.

Equity is defined as equal access to opportunity for all, and is the basic principle underlying the mandate of the EDI office. The EDI advisory committee advocates for access to learning and professional development opportunities for all individuals. It also encourages medical professionals and medical educators to advocate for health equity for all and to serve as agents for change.
Diversity requires that we account for differences, share experiences, and learn from one another without erecting artificial barriers that discriminate against specific groups. A mission of the office is to keep this concept on the forefront of our professional activities and emphasize the idea that determinants of health such as biology, gender, socioeconomic status, ethnicity and age have significant effects on the health of all people.
Inclusion goes hand in hand with diversity. An inclusive environment ensures that all individuals are respected, valued and heard and have an equal opportunity to contribute to the success of the institution.

We pay respect to the Algonquin people, who are the traditional guardians of this land. We acknowledge their longstanding relationship with this territory, which remains unceded. We pay respect to all Indigenous people in this region, from all nations across Canada, who call Ottawa home. We acknowledge the traditional knowledge keepers, both young and old.
And we honour their courageous leaders: past, present, and future.