Durham College publishes inaugural Diversity Self-ID survey

Results of Durham College’s (DC) first Diversity Self-Identification Survey are now available and will help support data-informed decision-making to continue the building of an inclusive and equitable campus culture. The survey was a collaborative effort by DC’s Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (OEDI) and the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE).

Of the staff and students polled, more than 500 full-time and part-time employees and 1,900 full-time and part-time students responded to the survey between January 25 to February 5, 2021, helping DC gather demographic data on five identity dimensions, including Indigenous identity, gender, sexual orientation, disability and ethnic origin.

Of note, eight in 10 employee respondents indicated that they believe people of all identities are valued at the college (85.5 per cent) and that they feel a sense of belonging as identities are valued at DC (80.3 per cent).

The results provide an opportunity to reflect on and improve DC’s current processes, policies and drive data-informed decision-making. One in five (20.2 per cent) employees perceive barriers to career progressions based on their personal identity, and over 68 per cent believe that transparency in decision-making about equity and inclusion decisions will help the college become a more diverse and inclusive institution.

This critical baseline information will support DC’s commitment to respect and inclusion. Together we will continue to lead the way to move the college beyond equity and inclusion to belonging.

Thank you to all who participated in the survey. For further information, please view the report online.