Networking Session Highlights
Explore the presentation slides, valuable resources, and key takeaways from our past networking sessions. Whether revisiting discussions or seeking fresh insights, everything you need is right here.
Meet, Greet, & Discuss Social Location: Networking Event #1
In our inaugural networking event, we explored the concept of Social Location and its profound impact on our roles in the workplace. This wasn't just another DEI discussion—it was a unique opportunity for attendees to reflect on how their social identities shape the perspectives, experiences, power, and influence they bring to their work.
Light Bulb Moment
A key takeaway from the session was the concept of "Two-Eyed Seeing," which blends Indigenous and Western knowledge for a richer perspective:
“We often explain Etuaptmumk - Two-Eyed Seeing by saying it refers to learning to see from one eye with the strengths of Indigenous knowledges and ways of knowing, and from the other eye with the strengths of Western knowledges and ways of knowing ... and learning to use both these eyes together, for the benefit of all.” – Institute for Integrative Science and Health
This principle helped participants understand how our Social Location influences our viewpoints and interactions, and how combining different perspectives can enrich our approach to diversity and inclusion.
The principle of Two-Eyed Seeing
Resources
Credit: Wheel of Privilege and Power, Government of Canada
The Myth of Neutrality: The Hidden Layers Networking Event #2
In our second networking event, we explored what unconscious bias is and its impact on your workplace. Participants connected with other IDEA professionals, engaged in meaningful discussions, and explored practical resources and strategies to address and overcome unconscious bias in the workplace.
Light Bulb Moment
A key takeaway from the session was the concept of Affinity Bias.
Affinity bias refers to our tendency to gravitate towards people who are similar or familiar to us over those who are different or unknown.
This bias often operates unconsciously, shaping our decisions and interactions without us realizing it. Participants learned how affinity bias can lead to unintentional exclusion, highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing unconscious biases to create more inclusive workplace environments.
Affinity Bias
