The Canada Games Council (CGC) is excited to introduce the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Task Force. This forward-thinking initiative is set to pave the way for a more inclusive and representative Canada Games Movement, ensuring the Games truly reflect the diversity of our nation.

A New Chapter

The CGC recently undertook a comprehensive audit of its operations to identify strengths and areas for growth. With the support of third-party analyst and consulting firm INclusion INcorporated, this audit informed the creation of a robust action plan and an analysis of self-identification demographics from participant registration. These tools will set the stage for a significant shift in the way the Canada Games approach diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Empowering Change

The DEI Task Force is not just another advisory committee. Its mandate is to enhance diversity within the Canada Games Movement through building relationships and identifying opportunities, including outreach to federal, provincial, and territorial governments, collaborating with National Sport Organizations (NSO) and Multi-Sport Organizations (MSO), and working closely with Host Societies.

Meet the Change Makers

Judy Joseph-Black: Chair of this task force and a champion of accessibility, inclusion, and equity in sports administration, Judy has an illustrious career spanning three decades. Her expertise has been instrumental in various sports organizations, including leadership experience with Team BC at the Canada Games. She currently serves on several Boards of Directors, including the CGC and the Canadian Paralympic Committee.

Edward "Sonny" Albert: Sonny is dedicated to advancing Indigenous communities in the world of sports. Sonny is an accomplished hockey player and serves in various roles within sports organizations, contributing to the betterment of Indigenous communities.  He has been nominated to this Task Force by our partners on behalf of the Aboriginal Sport Circle.

Shauna Bookal: As a reputed DEI leader within Canadian sports for more than two decades, Shauna is the CEO of Inclusion in Canadian Sports Network. She's also the Manager of EDI and Student Experience at Ontario University Athletics and actively contributes to various boards and committees.

Khan Bouba-Dalambaye: A prominent leader in Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, Khan brings a wealth of experience as a clinical counselor and instructor in psychology. He's the CEO of K-BD Consulting, where he specializes in creating inclusive workplaces.

Richard "Bear" Peter: A five-time Paralympian and three-time Paralympic champion and a celebrated wheelchair basketball athlete. He currently serves as Indigenous Peoples Liaison for the Praxis Spinal Cord Institute, focusing on bridging gaps in sports for Indigenous communities and youth with disabilities.

David Thibodeau: A policy professional at the Department of Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship, David has authored key resources for LGBTQ2SIA+ inclusivity in coaching and sports. He's also the host of the Sports for Social Impact podcast, offering insights and policy recommendations for harnessing the power of sports for a more inclusive world. He is a member of the CGC Board of Directors and a Team NB Canada Games Alumni.

To ensure the Task Force is continually equipped to address a wide range of opportunities in this space, new members with appropriate skills and lived experience may join throughout its lifecycle.

The formation of the DEI Task Force marks a significant milestone in the CGC's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and will be supported by our Senior Advisor of Sustainability and Impact, Gill Orris. The CGC is dedicated to fostering a sports landscape that truly reflects Canada’s diversity, and will look to the Task Force’s guidance and leadership to develop applicable programming and continue to improve the Canada Games Movement for all.

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