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CVMA Releases Updated DEI Statement
September 17, 2024
The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) is committed to, and seeks to advance, a diverse, equitable, inclusive (DEI), and accessible profession. It seeks to foster a profession that supports access and the success of all students, faculty, staff, and members of the broader public who access our services. The CVMA promotes a culture of human rights and opposes discrimination based on the protected grounds of age, race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or family status. We affirm that each human being is valuable and deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
The well-being of our society and our profession is vital. The sustainability of the people involved in our veterinary profession relies on every individual being engaged, and feeling they belong and are supported, safe, heard, and understood. The CVMA commits to continuing to develop and make its services accessible to address bias, obstacles, and barriers to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
The CVMA also supports existing veterinary college programs which encourage diversity and inclusivity, and allows for the equitable selection of students, faculty, and staff. We support continued actions taken by our Canadian associations, government, and educational institutions to make veterinary education more accessible for historically underrepresented groups.
We encourage veterinary teams to be respectful of all their clients and potential clients. The attitudes and actions of veterinary team members have a direct effect on our clients, and the health and welfare of our patients.
We support open dialogue of our membership on these issues. Belonging is an important aspect of human need. DEI is about creating a more inclusive environment, where every member feels valued. It is not about excluding people, but ensuring each member feels they belong and can flourish.