Policy Statement
SelfDesign Learning Foundation (SDLF) is committed to an environment in which all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Every person has the right to work and learn in an environment free of discrimination. Therefore, SDLF expects that all relationships among persons at SelfDesign will be free from explicit bias, prejudice or discrimination.
Definitions
Dignity – the state or quality of being worthy of honour or respect
Discriminate – to treat a person or group of people unfairly based on personal characteristics such as race, age, gender or disability. Discrimination can be a distinction, exclusion or restriction that imposes a disadvantage and it can be unintentional or intentional.
Microaggressions – a subtle, often unintentional, verbal or behavioural action that communicates hostile or derogatory messages toward a person or group based on their identity.
Respect – due regard for the feelings, wishes, rights, or traditions of others
Policy
SelfDesign Learning Foundation will not discriminate, or condone discrimination, against any person on the basis of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, political beliefs, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, genetic characteristics, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Protocol
All relationships among persons with SDLF should be free from explicit bias, prejudice, and discrimination.
All contractors, board members, support providers, families and volunteers must:
- not engage in the discrimination of others.
- report if discrimination is observed or experienced.
- foster welcoming, inclusive and equitable spaces.
- avoid actions, language, or decisions that could create discriminatory or harmful experiences.
- make reasonable efforts to accommodate needs related to disability, culture, and other protected characteristics, consistent with the BC Human Rights Code.
- apply and comply with the SDLF policies and procedures.
Violations from contractors, board members, support providers or volunteers may result in corrective action or contract termination.
Individuals with ideas to support non-discrimination at SDLF can also share their ideas with their Foundation contact or Human Relations.
Non-Discrimination in the Provision of Services to Learners
To ensure non-discrimination in the provision of services for learners and families, SDLF will:
- Offer accommodations and support that enable learners to participate fully.
- Ensure physical and digital accessibility whenever possible.
- Respect learners’ identities, pronouns, and cultural backgrounds.
- Use inclusive educational strategies and materials.
- Considering the diverse needs of learners when planning programs or activities.
Non-Discrimination in Contracting
To ensure non-discrimination in contracting, SDLF will:
- Conduct recruitment and contractor selection processes that are transparent, inclusive, and aligned with the BC Human Rights Code.
- Evaluate applicants and contractors based on qualifications, skills, experience, and ability to meet the needs of the organization.
- Avoid questions, screening practices, or requirements that directly or indirectly discriminate.
- Provide reasonable accommodations during the recruitment and contracting process when requested.
- Maintain documentation demonstrating fair and consistent decision-making.
Advancing Non-Discrimination at SDLF
To continually develop and grow, SDLF will maintain a plan to advance non-discrimination and social equity within the organization (which will be reviewed annually and updated when needed). The plan will include work in the following areas:
- Governance and Accountability
- Education and Communication
- Systemic Changes
- Community Engagement
Reporting Discrimination
Individuals who believe they have been the victims of discrimination, including microaggressions, or believe they have witnessed such conduct, should discuss their concerns with their Foundation contact or Human Relations.
Individuals may report discrimination following the reporting procedure outlined in:
- For contractors, board members support providers and volunteers; the Workplace Harassment & Bullying Policy
- For families; the Harassment, Bullying, and Abuse Prevention Policy
Reports of discrimination will be handled with sensitivity, confidentiality to the extent possible, and without retaliation.
SelfDesign Learning Foundation will review and respond to all complaints in a fair and timely manner, which may include investigation, corrective action, or removal of a contractor, board member, service provider, family, or volunteer if necessary.
Related Documents
- Appeals and Fairness Policy
- BC Human Rights Code
- Canadian Human Rights Act
- Dispute Resolution Policy
- Education Environment of Safety, Acceptance, and Respect Policy
- Harassment, Bullying, and Abuse Prevention Policy
- Workplace Harassment and Bullying Policy