Abstract:
The Government of Canada is dedicated to promoting greater representation and inclusion science through initiatives such as the Clerk’s Call to Action on Anti-racism, Equity, and Inclusion in the Federal Public Service. NRCan launched the Inclusive science research study to build capacity and inform the inclusive design, implementation, and reporting of scientific activities across the department. This symposium will leverage the inclusive science research study’s successes to integrate IDEA and GBA Plus and weave Indigenous knowledge system into science. NRCan executives and senior management will discuss the study’s structure, evidence synthesis, and engagement strategies, showcasing guidelines, best practices, and capacity-building initiatives designed to inform inclusive scientific activities across NRCan.

Summary of Conversations

The panel addressed advancing inclusive science within a research enterprise, emphasizing the importance of data-driven approaches and practical resources. They highlighted the development and implementation of a self-assessment questionnaire designed to help scientists evaluate their practices and access tools for improvement. The discussion underscored the need for partnerships and addressing barriers faced by racialized individuals in scientific communities. The panel recognized the scientists’ eagerness for a more inclusive work environment and tools to facilitate inclusivity, mentioning the piloting of the tool within the Canadian Forest Service. They also touched upon adapting the tool to different types of scientific work and ensuring it promotes self-improvement rather than evaluation, reinforcing the importance of senior management support and consistent communication.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of Challenges

• Marginalized scientists face constant threats to mental, physical, and psychological health, leading to career stagnation. 
• Existing programs often cater to the “average” scientist, sidelining marginalized communities and reinforcing exclusion. 
• Scientists express a strong desire to integrate inclusivity, GBA plus principles, and Indigenous knowledge into their work, but lack clear guidance on how to do so. 
• Resistance from lead scientists, who may view inclusivity efforts as an additional burden, remains a potential challenge. 
• Systemic support for implementing inclusivity initiatives can be inconsistent, hindering progress. 
• There is a need to shift from an “ego-system” to an ecosystem approach, fostering collaboration and shared responsibility. 
• Success hinges on a culture of continuous learning, open communication, and non-judgmental dialogue, ensuring failures are viewed as learning opportunities.

Recommendations/Next Steps

• Prioritize marginalized communities by adopting an inclusive by design approach. 
• Offer peer support and concrete action plans to scientists seeking to integrate inclusivity into their practices. 
• Cultivate a learning culture by emphasizing collaboration, piloting initiatives, and sharing best practices across organizations. 
• Apply SMART objectives (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to inclusivity efforts to track progress and ensure accountability. 
• Senior management should actively support and consistently communicate the importance of inclusivity initiatives. 
• Encourage scientists to assess their practices, make suggestions for improvement, and adopt new, inclusive methodologies. 
• Share resources and expertise with other organizations, including making a publicly available version of the self-assessment tool. 
• Ensure ongoing engagement with stakeholders, including senior management, scientists, and diverse communities, to foster buy-in and address challenges.