Myths of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion (EDI) & Belonging. Why they matter in Academic Spaces. With Martha Mathurin-Moe: Executive Director- Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.

The current social and educational discourse has brought to the forefront the urgent need to address systemic barriers and injustices that have historically excluded voices within academic spaces. The racial and social disparities were further exacerbated by the covid 19 pandemic which has also shown huge gaps within groups, communities, and countries around the world. Educational institutions as an agent of social change have an ethical responsibility to not only acknowledge its role in perpetuating the disparities of historically excluded groups but to be an active participant to call out and address them.

The speaker will identify key foundational and guiding principles for EDI (Equity, Diversity & Inclusion) and Belonging and will make the ethical and business case for EDI. She will address the myths that continue to impact the successful implementation of EDI strategies, and discuss the importance of allyship & advocacy and the role faculty, staff, students, administrators play in championing equitable, safe, and inclusive campuses.

 

Speaker:      Martha Mathurin-Moe: Executive Director- Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Pronouns: She/her

 

Born and raised in Saint Lucia, West Indies, Martha Mathurin-Moe holds a BA degree from the Universidad Central de Las Villas, Cuba; a Master of Education in Educational Psychology from the University of Regina and is a doctoral candidate in Curriculum and Instruction.  Mathurin-Moe's experience consists of 10 years in Banking and Finance and 8 years in International Education.  Previous roles include Manager of Talent Development at the Public Service Commission, Government of Saskatchewan, Associate Director of Study Abroad & Mobility at UR International at the University of Regina. Mathurin-Moe work in international education has afforded her the possibility to participate in educational forums in Brazil, Canada, China, Cuba, Mexico, Germany, Italy, and the United States. She is a skilled facilitator and advocate for equitable and inclusive workplaces for all.  Mathurin-Moe is very passionate about teaching and focuses a lot of her research on Cross Cultural Communication, Internationalization of Curriculum as well as reshaping the perceptions of Studying Abroad and the importance of inclusive teaching. Mathurin-Moe believes that learning is organic and constantly changing but being represented in the learning space is just as equally important. Mathurin-Moe’s research focuses on the shifting identities international graduate students assume while transitioning into a new educational setting. This is why she is very keen on developing learning opportunities that create an environment where all students, no matter race, gender/gender expression, neurodiversity or ethnic background feel represented in their learning space. During her free time, she enjoys cooking, reading, and traveling with her partner Jared.