Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility in the Algonquin College Work Environment
2026–2031 IDEA Blueprint: Tebendagozàmin — We Belong
At Algonquin College, our strength comes from the diversity of our people and the perspectives that drive innovation, excellence, and belonging. The 2026–2031 Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Blueprint is more than a plan. It is our promise to intentionally create a College where IDEA principles are embedded in how we work and lead every day.
Rooted in the teaching of Tebendagozàmin — we all belong, the Blueprint reflects our commitment to fostering a community where every individual feels valued, seen, and supported. At a time of ongoing change in higher education, this commitment provides clarity and direction, while reinforcing that equity and belonging are essential to our collective success.
Building on the progress of previous Blueprints, this third iteration advances our journey from foundational efforts toward systemic and sustainable change. Aligned with the College’s 2025–2030 Strategic Plan and global best practices, it deepens the integration of IDEA across policies, leadership, recruitment, career advancement, accessibility, and responsible sourcing.
The development of the 2026–2031 IDEA Blueprint was informed through broad collaboration and meaningful engagement. We extend our sincere appreciation to the HR Advisory Group, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Committee (EDIAC), Affinity Group Co‑Chairs representing Racialized Identities, Persons with Disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ communities, and Women, the Employee Engagement Collaboration Team, the Indigenous Initiatives Team, and the Algonquin College Leadership Team (ACLT). Their insights and lived experiences strengthened the Blueprint and ensured it remains forward‑looking, grounded, and accountable.
The Blueprint focuses on four priority areas:
- Institutionalizing inclusion through an IDEA lens on policies and practices
- Advancing Indigenous inclusion through recruitment and retention
- Leveraging our purchasing power through inclusive and responsible sourcing
- Removing barriers and creating equitable career pathways for employees
Together with employees and partners, we share responsibility for bringing this Blueprint to life. By embedding equity in every decision and celebrating diversity as a source of strength, we continue to shape a College where everyone belongs and where innovation thrives because every voice matters.
If you want to explore how far we have come on our journey, you can look back at our commitments and what has been achieved by navigating to the Inclusion & Diversity Blueprint Archives.
Pìjàshig kakina – Welcome Everyone
Algonquin College campuses are located on the traditional unceded, and unsurrendered territory of the Anishinàbe Algonquin People. The Algonquin People have inhabited and cared for these lands since time immemorial. We take this time to express our gratitude and respect to them and to the land for all that it has provided and will continue to provide.
As a post-secondary institution, we acknowledge the harms done to Indigenous Peoples and are committed to learning from the past. We pledge to promote healing and resilience as we move forward in partnership with the Algonquin Nations, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples in a spirit of reconciliation.
While we recognize that territorial acknowledgements are only one step in cultivating greater respect for and inclusion of Indigenous Peoples, we commit to accompanying these words with actions. We are dedicated to building a future and community that is better for all.
We pledge to continue exploring and making meaningful contributions to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action.
Human Resources and Indigenous Initiatives
In alignment with the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, Algonquin College is advancing its efforts to recruit and retain Indigenous talent.
Indigenous Recruitment Strategy 2025-2027
Algonquin is Proud to be Members and Champions of:
