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    • Home
    • Academics and Research
    • Research and Innovation
    • Research Strengths
    • Indigeneity, Decolonization, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

    Research Strengths
    • Environmental Sustainability
    • Health and Well-Being
    • Governance and Policy
    • Indigeneity, Decolonization, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
    • Business, Innovation, Mathematics and Technology
    • Society, Culture and Community

    Indigeneity, Decolonization, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Research

    Laurier researchers examine the complex interplay of social, economic and political factors that perpetuate societal inequalities, with a focus on promoting social justice, human rights and equity. Knowledge contributes to the dismantling of oppressive structures, advocacy and policymaking, ensuring fair treatment and equal opportunities for all.

    Learn more in the Laurier Strategic Research Plan 2025-2030.

    Supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals


    SDG goal 4: Quality Education
    SDG 4: Quality Education
    SDG goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
    SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
    SDG goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
    SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

    Highlights

    The Laurier Centre for Women in Science promotes equity, diversity and inclusion in STEM fields.

    The Tshepo Institute for the Study of Contemporary Africa fosters knowledge production and timely discourse about issues affecting Continental Africa and its diaspora.

    The Laurier Centre for Community Research, Learning and Action works to advance community well-being and social justice, including through the Interdisciplinary and Indigenous Pathways to Wellness Research Group.

    Research Strengths

    Social justice and human rights

    Researchers investigate the systems and barriers that perpetuate societal inequalities, focusing on the unfair distribution of wealth, power and privilege. Understanding the root causes of these disparities helps to develop practical solutions.

    Diversity of cultures and communities

    This research focuses on amplifying non-dominant, minority and marginalized voices, while challenging prevailing assumptions about business, political and cultural institutions. Scholars are committed to preserving and promoting humanity’s cultural heritage, exploring how diverse cultural narratives contribute to a richer, more inclusive understanding of society.

    Gender and its intersections

    Understanding how gender is influenced by and intersects with racism, colonialism, heteronormativity, religion and poverty helps develop more nuanced perspectives and strategies to promote equity and inclusivity across social contexts.

    Educational supports for learners and leaders

    Research in this area empowers educational leaders to promote Indigeneity, equity, diversity and inclusion within schools and educational systems, creating supportive and inclusive learning environments for all students to succeed.

    Intersection of health and marginalization/dis-inclusion

    Researchers explore how social position influences health status, learning from the lived experiences of marginalized populations how systemic and institutional violence affects their health. Knowledge mobilization aims to improve health outcomes for all individuals, regardless of their social position.

    Indigenous scholarship and decolonizing relationships, knowledge and practices

    This research area encompasses the extensive work of Laurier’s Indigenous faculty members and focuses on decolonizing practices and fostering equitable relationships between non-Indigenous and Indigenous communities. Promoting Indigenous knowledge, methodologies and perspectives contributes to the broader goal of reconciliation and mutual understanding.

    Related Content

    Research Chairs

    • Canada Research Chair in Community-Based Research, Ethics and Well-Being
    • Canada Research Chair in Community-Driven Knowledge Mobilization and Pathways to Wellness
    • Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Histories and Historical Practice in Canada
    • Canada Research Chair in Northern Sustainable Food Systems
    • Laurier Research Chair in Social Psychology
    • NSERC Chair for Women in Science and Engineering (Ontario)

    Research Centres and Institutes

    • Centre for Leading Research in Education
    • Centre for Women in Science
    • Cold Regions Research Centre
    • Laurier Centre for Community Research, Learning and Action
    • Laurier Centre for the Study of Canada
    • Laurier Centre for Sustainable Food Systems
    • International Migration Research Centre
    • Tshepo Institute for the Study of Contemporary Africa
    • Viessmann Centre for Engagement and Research in Sustainability

    Graduate Programs

    • Applied Politics (MAP)
    • Communication Studies (MA)
    • Community Psychology (MA)
    • Cultural Analysis and Social Theory (MA)
    • Education (MEd)
    • History (MA)
    • International Public Policy (MIPP)
    • Religion, Culture and Global Justice (MA)
    • Social Justice and Community Engagement (MA)
    • Social Work (MSW, PhD)

     

    Latest News

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    Get to know Keri Cheechoo, Laurier’s Grundy Indigenous Scholar
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