Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI-B) at BCHS
A Message from Erin Sleeth, Vice President, People, Culture & Corporate Infrastructure
As someone who has been a part of Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) for over 20 years, I am excited and optimistic about the transformation we are undergoing. At BCHS, we are committed to embedding Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI-B) into everything we do. It’s not just a goal—it’s our ongoing commitment to weave DEI-B into the very fabric of our organization.
We intentionally chose to emphasize Belonging alongside our commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, setting us apart from the standard approach. In short, belonging makes DEI initiatives more meaningful because it ensures that inclusion isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a lived experience. When individuals feel they truly belong, they can show up as their authentic selves, leading to deeper engagement, stronger connections, and a more cohesive team. Belonging fosters connection, trust, and a sense of security among staff and the community we serve. It’s what turns diversity and inclusion into a culture that empowers people to feel fully seen, heard, and valued in our workplace.
Our "Celebrate, Educate, and Engage" initiatives have strengthened connections with staff and the community, but our next steps are clear. Guided by our strategic plan and DEI-B vision, we are focused on addressing systemic issues and building lasting change. We remain committed to fostering authentic relationships and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Our next step is to focus on the structural changes needed to create a more inclusive workplace where our employees and community feel welcomed and valued. This will take sustained effort, clear goals, and ongoing accountability, but I am confident that with strong leadership and a shared commitment, we will continue to build an organization that truly reflects and serves the diverse communities we care for.
A Message from Dr. Ruby Latif, Director, Inclusivity, Diversity & Community Outreach
Diversity is a fact. Our organization thrives because of the unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences each individual brings. Equity is our goal. We are dedicated to providing everyone with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. Inclusion is the outcome we strive for, but at BCHS, we aim for more than just words. It’s about creating spaces where diversity, equity, and inclusion are fully integrated, ensuring that everyone truly belongs and can bring their wholes selves to work.
Throughout my career, I’ve faced challenges showing up authentically. But in the 16 months since joining BCHS as the inaugural Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI-B) , I’ve been embraced and supported. I’m grateful for those who’ve stepped in to help create a welcoming place for all.
Over the last year, we've strengthened our connections and embraced the diverse communities we serve. We’ve hosted a variety of BCHS events focused on spotlighting the importance of celebrating culture and as we continue to provide educational panels, resources, and growth opportunities, we now turn our attention to the critical work of addressing systemic barriers.
This journey requires sustained commitment, clear goals, and the resources to drive meaningful change. I’m excited to keep working together as we shape BCHS into a place where belonging is a lived experience for everyone.
Current State Report
Reflecting on our ongoing journey in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI-B) initiatives at BCHS, this current state report encapsulates our progress and challenges in fostering an inclusive workplace culture. Through comprehensive data collection, including surveys, interviews, focus groups, and community insights, we've gained valuable perspectives that shape our organizational approach towards DEI-B.
Marking one of our largest engagement efforts, the quantitative survey data reveals a diverse demographic landscape with significant linguistic and ethnic variety. This is further supported by over 100 hours of informative interviews, focus groups, and meetings that have provided valuable insights into qualitative data and lived experiences. These considerations highlight the strategic importance of inclusivity, psychological safety, and integrating DEI-B into our organizational culture. Addressing systemic issues and microaggressions remains crucial for fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace culture.
This report will guide BCHS's DEI-B priorities, and the development of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Key Behavioral Insights (KBIs) aligned with the Ontario Health Equity, Inclusion, Diversity and Anti-Racism Framework, aiming to close perception gaps and strengthen leadership commitment to create a valued and empowered workplace.
Click here to read an executive summary of the 2024 Current State Report.
Work Being Done at BCHS
At BCHS, we are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable organization. Our goals are not just principles, but integral parts of our culture, leadership, and community engagement efforts. Beyond conducting a Current State assessment, we have focused on building an inclusive and welcoming organization.
Over the past year and a half we have made significant progress across eight key pillars: DEI-B Leadership and Governance, Data Gathering and Insights, Communication and Creating Awareness, Training and Education, Inclusive Practices and Cultural Awareness, Community Engagement and Allyship, Accountability and Transparency, and DEI-B Progress and Future Focus. These pillars serve as the foundation of our efforts to drive meaningful change. The graphic below illustrates the milestones we’ve achieved in these areas, reflecting our ongoing commitment to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at BCHS.
We also want to acknowledge that Indigenous reconciliation differs from DEI-B, as it involves fostering a renewed relationship with Indigenous Peoples based on respect and partnership. For more information in Indigenous Health Services, click here.
Celebrate, Educate and Engage
Our "Celebrate, Educate, Engage" model is a strategic approach to fostering DEI-B at BCHS. It reinforces our commitment to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment, making DEI-B a core part of our culture. By regularly incorporating these elements, we build awareness, promote understanding, and create a sense of belonging.
"I Belong" Campaign
Aligned with our 2020-2025 strategic plan, equity has been a central focus at Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS). As part of our ongoing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI-B) initiatives, we are proud to launch the “I Belong” campaign.
As part of the “I Belong” campaign, BCHS employees, staff, and volunteers are given the opportunity to share their personal stories, strengthening a culture of belonging that empowers each individual and deepens our collective mission to provide exceptional care. Together, we’re creating a more inclusive, connected, and empowered BCHS.
For more information on our other initiatives, click on the icons below:
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