Inclusion and Belonging Statement
Inclusion and Belonging Statement
As the Residence Life Professional Association and our field have grown more diverse, reflecting the changing demographics of the students we serve, we recognize the importance of creating environments where all members feel valued and connected. The RLPA believes that fostering inclusion and belonging is essential for the success of our members, and we are committed to upholding spaces where every individual can thrive, contribute, and feel like they truly belong. The Inclusion and Belonging Statement was created by the Anti-Racism and Reconciliation Working Group to ensure that our members have a process to have any noninclusive behaviour addressed by our members and partners.
Inclusion and Belonging Statement
As stated in Article 1 of Bylaw II, RLPA aims to bring together all post-secondary residence staff members. We firmly believe in the importance of inclusion and belonging, recognizing and celebrating the diverse perspectives and backgrounds of our members. Whether as an executive board member, affiliated vendor, guest, or visitor, each interaction within RLPA should uphold these values and contribute positively to our collective experience.
Reporting and Response Process
- A member of the Presidential Trio (president@rlpa.ca, presidentelect@rlpa.ca, president-past@rlpa.ca).
- A designated member of the Anti-Racism and Reconciliation (ARR) Working Group, who must be a non-voting member of the Board, or
- Through your institution’s Senior Housing Officer, who can bring up the report on your behalf to one of the aforementioned reporting options.
Participation Expectations
Our Association, as stated in Article 5 of Bylaw III, is open to all eligible persons regardless of race, colour, gender or gender expression, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, physical and/or mental disability. It’s our firm belief that the diversity of our members enriches our community and contributes to a vibrant, inclusive environment.
We expect all members, including the executive board, affiliated vendors, guests, or visitors, to uphold this ethos in their interactions within the Association. This requires conscious effort to:
- Respect and value the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of others.
- Treat everyone with kindness, empathy, and professional courtesy.
- Actively foster an inclusive atmosphere, ensuring all voices are heard and valued.
- Stand against and report any forms of discrimination, harassment, or exclusion.
The Association is committed to providing a safe environment for all its members. Any form of harassment, including sexual misconduct, or behaviours that threaten, intimidate, or coerce any member of our Association, will not be tolerated.
Our shared commitment to these expectations helps us maintain an Association that is not just safe and professional, but also welcoming, inclusive, and respectful of all.
Statement Revisions
The RLPA Inclusion and Belonging Statement will undergo regular reviews and updates by the ARR Working Group to ensure the statement’s continued effectiveness and relevance.
Written & Adopted June 2023
