Shared on behalf of the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Steering Committee
On March 1, we recognize Zero Discrimination Day – an opportunity to promote inclusion, fairness, and equity in every part of life – especially in health care.
The day was first launched by the United Nations and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS in 2014 to highlight the stigma faced by people living with HIV. It has since grown into a movement to fight all forms of discrimination including those based on race, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability status, health status, and other identities.
In health care, discrimination and stigma contribute to inequitable access to health care services, and disparities in health outcomes. Zero Discrimination Day reminds us of the importance of providing culturally safe, dignified, and patient-centred care for all patients and families; and fostering safe workplaces that are free from discrimination.
The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Steering Committee, in collaboration with partners from EDI Strategic Plan projects, continues to move the needle forward on initiatives such as an EDI Toolkit, and the Black Health Action Plan, that seek to eliminate discrimination, and provide a safe, equitable environment for all patients and staff.
If you are interested in learning more about Zero Discrimination Day, please go to: https://roya.institute/blog/march-1-zero-discrimination-day-advancing-human-rights-for-all/3136.