49

needs. ETFO commits to recognize and accommodate 
these differences between people and groups. ETFO will 
modify programs, and will develop and provide special 
programs for particular groups where necessary, since 
in an unequal world, ignoring differences perpetuates 
inequality. 

3. Growth means change, and change is 

difficult

Equity work requires planning, commitment, and 
continual reflection. It is multifaceted and, to be 
effective, involves “walking the talk,” changing the self 
as well as the world. 

It is controversial. Equity work is about fundamental 
change, which is often vigorously resisted. Those 
who benefit from the way society is currently 
organized, or who are unaware of the pervasiveness 
of discrimination, or who are simply comfortable with 
the status quo, are often reluctant to contemplate new 
ways of doing things.

ETFO embraces the need for change and is committed 
to moving forward on equity and social justice. 
Members and staff will be supported by ETFO in the 
learning that is necessary to effect change.

4. ETFO devotes time, staff and other 

resources to work for social justice and 
equity at all levels of the organization

ETFO has identified eight goals as part of an ongoing, 
long-range equity implementation plan:

Y

 

Policy Development: ETFO’s own policies and 
practices must be exemplary, and as such will 
support our members’ own equity work as well as 
positively influencing the policies of other groups.

Y

 

Accountability: ETFO must develop clear 
indicators (for example, data on participation 
of members of equity-seeking groups in ETFO 
programs, leadership and staff) by which our 
progress in equity can be measured, and report 
regularly on progress to the membership.

Y

 

Staff Development and Involvement: ETFO 
must have a diverse staff, informed about and 
committed to social justice and equity.

Y

 

Professional Development: ETFO must provide a 
variety of professional development opportunities 
and other forms of education in equity to 
members, staff and provincial and local leadership.

Y

 

Communications: All ETFO publications must use 
inclusive language, represent diversity, recognize 
special needs and include equity content. ETFO 
spokespersons must advocate for social justice 
and equity with members, governments and the 
public.

Y

 

Programs: ETFO must provide programs 
consistent with its commitment to equity. 
Programs are needed for member education on 
issues of social justice and equity, and to support 
the particular identified needs of members who 
belong to equity-seeking groups.

Y

 

Outreach: ETFO must continually seek to include, 
involve and promote members who belong to 
equity-seeking groups. ETFO must build alliances 
with labour, parents, community groups and other 
partners to counter discrimination and to advocate 
for social justice.

Y

 

Service Area Development: Equity and Women’s 
Services provides an operational focus for equity 
work: identification of equity issues, both internally 
and externally; making recommendations for 
action; and monitoring action in all the areas 
above. 

A belief in equity, supported by 
organizational structures, and expressed 
in actions are the components of social 
justice and equity within ETFO.

Approved by the ETFO Executive, July 2002.