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Equity, diversity and inclusion policy

Maison Verso recognizes the value of every identity, every background, and every heritage. Building on these human foundations, we make it our duty to apply the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in a sustained and committed way — both in our internal practices and in our interactions with the cultural and artistic ecosystems in which we work.

 

Definitions

Equity: Equity is a principle and process aimed at providing fair conditions for every person who wishes to participate fully in society. This principle recognizes that, while all people have the right to equal treatment, not all have the same access to resources, opportunities, or benefits. Equality does not always mean treating all individuals or groups in the same way, but may require the use of specific measures in the interest of fairness. (Source: Canada Council for the Arts)

Diversity: Diversity refers to a group of individuals who differ in their identity, geographic, cultural, or religious origin, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, physical or intellectual limitations, discipline, and so on. (Source: RQEDI)

Inclusion: Inclusion refers to the action of creating an environment that respects diversity and fully integrates all members of its community, supporting them and offering measures to promote their well-being and fulfillment. It is a sustained commitment to welcoming, integrating, accompanying, and advancing marginalized groups. (Source: RQEDI)

 

Internal Objectives

  • Ensure the dignity and autonomy of every individual within the organization;

  • Combat discrimination, harassment, or any appearance of abuse or exclusion;

  • Create an accessible and welcoming space where every individual can develop to their full potential;

  • Continuously evolve toward a practice that takes into account perspectives from all walks of life;

  • Act proactively to develop inclusive practices that promote equity;

  • Apply EDI principles at every stage of an individual's journey within the organization (recruitment, advancement, departure);

  • Position ourselves thoughtfully as an ally when concerns arising from diversity emerge.

 

External Objectives

  • Promote EDI values in all our external activities;

  • Act with transparency and encourage the same transparency from our partners;

  • Participate in community education on EDI, while recognizing that diversity groups remain the experts on their own issues;

  • Support our partners in adopting inclusive and ethical policies;

  • Remain vigilant against any effects of systemic discrimination within our sector (racism, sexism, ableism, colonialism, etc.).

 

Actions

  • Procurement: favour acquisition from suppliers who adopt an inclusive and equitable approach.

  • Communications: develop inclusive communication tools adapted to the realities of our communities.

  • Living and working environment: maintain inclusive physical and virtual spaces where each person's individual background is valued.

  • Governance: integrate EDI orientations into strategic decision-making.

  • Human resources: provide confidential channels for reporting any form of discrimination and offer appropriate support to those affected.

  • Awareness: train staff and board members on diversity issues and unconscious bias.

  • Zero tolerance: enforce disciplinary measures for any discriminatory behaviour.

  • Universal accessibility: ensure that our events and communications are accessible to persons with disabilities.

 

Implementation

Staff members are called upon to:

  • Adopt behaviours that respect diversity;

  • Uphold a work environment that respects the identity of every person;

  • Recognize the equal value of all forms of artistic and cultural expression;

  • Propose improvements as our knowledge of EDI deepens;

  • Support our partners in implementing sustainable EDI initiatives.

 

Land Acknowledgement

Maison Verso recognizes that it carries out its activities on the unceded Indigenous territory of Tiohtià:ke, of the Kanien'kehá:ka Nation. This acknowledgement is a first step in a broader commitment to reconciliation and respect for Indigenous knowledge.

 

Review

This policy is reviewed annually to remain aligned with best practices and the needs of the communities with which we work.

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