Ink in water isolated on white background. Rainbow of colors
The Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI team) have organised dedicated events that promote awareness and engagement within the workplace. 
By recognising significant cultural observances and historical milestones, the team aims to foster a more inclusive environment where employees and students from diverse backgrounds feel valued and respected. These events are carefully curated to celebrate various cultural heritages, honour achievements, and raise awareness about important issues related to equity and diversity. Through events like workshops, seminars, art exhibitions, film screenings, panel discussions, and other activities, the EDI team works towards creating a workplace that embraces diversity and promotes inclusion at all levels.
 

International Women's Day

Thursday 7 March 2024
Our Faculty hosted an Athena Swan Showcase event which highlighted significant contributions in their respective fields. Several colleagues and students within the Faculty were nominated to showcase their roles and work as they model inclusion. These valuable insights focussed on fostering inclusivity and diversity, within our policies, practices and teaching resources. The event raised awareness of areas that are supporting the advancement of women and gender equity across our schools and also empower colleagues to value inclusion. 
We had inspiring talks from Dr Julie Parsons and Karen Ellis, who outlined their writing retreats or career journeys from different career angles; academically and professionally.
Women themselves aspire to be included, there's a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. Hence, the theme for this year's IWD is Inspire Inclusion..
International Women's Day
 

Spring Equinox Culture Festival

Thursday 21 March 2024
The Spring Equinox event was a vibrant celebration of heritage, culture, wellbeing, and community at the Roland Levinsky Building. This event marked the first day of spring and commemorated several cultural events that coincide with the Spring Equinox. Among these celebrations were Norooz, the Persian New Year; Holi festival in India; Easter; and the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. These diverse cultural observances added richness and depth to the event, showcasing traditions from around the world.
The Spring Equinox holds cultural significance in many countries, each with its unique traditions and rituals to mark this celestial event. While the specific customs vary widely, they all share a common theme of celebrating new beginnings and welcoming the arrival of spring. The diversity of celebrations during the Spring Equinox highlights the beauty of different cultures coming together to honour nature’s cycles and embrace renewal.
The Spring Equinox event created an electric buzz within the Roland Levinsky Building, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for cultural diversity among staff and students. By providing a creative space for engagement and celebration, the event aimed to create an inclusive environment where individuals could learn about and embrace various cultural practices. The gathering served as an opportunity for cross-cultural exchange, promoting understanding and respect for different heritages while fostering a sense of belonging within the community.
Spring Equinox Culture Festival logo
 

Building Disability Knowledge and Leadership

Wednesday 18 October 2023
The Faculty EDI team organised a comprehensive event focused on enhancing Disability Knowledge and Leadership within the organisation. The event featured a series of talks, workshops, and discussions aimed at deepening the understanding and refining the approach to disability-related issues. Throughout the day, participants had the opportunity to listen to insights from various experts, like Dr. Suanne Gibson (Associate Professor in Education), PGR students, members of the Staff with Disabilities Network, colleagues from Disability Assist Services, and the CEO of Disability Rights UK; Kamran Mallick. The discussions revolved around three key topics and principles: the Disability Confident Scheme, Workplace Culture, and Education and Research practice. 
The event achieved several outcomes that included engaging colleagues in meaningful conversations about disability, providing a platform for staff and students within the Faculty and University to share their research and practices, promoting collaborative working practices, and fostering partnerships.
Four people looking at the camera, smiling. Showing diversity in the workplace