4

Foundations for  

Equity Work in ETFO

The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) provides equity and women’s programs in the 
context of its fundamental constitutional object:

to foster a climate of social justice in Ontario and continue a leadership role in 
such areas as anti-poverty, non-violence, and equity;

and in the spirit of the definition of equity adopted by the ETFO Executive:

It is the goal of the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario to work with 
others to create schools, communities, and a society free from all forms of 
individual and systemic discrimination. To further this goal, ETFO defines equity as 
fairness achieved through proactive measures which result in equality, promote 
diversity and foster respect and dignity for all. (June 2011)

A comprehensive policy on social justice and equity was adopted by delegates to the 2003 Annual 
Meeting:

ETFO POLICY ON EQUITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

32.1 That equity be defined as fairness achieved through pro-active measures which result in equality,

promote diversity and foster respect and dignity for all.

32.2 That discriminatory practices not be accepted within ETFO and that ETFO work proactively

to effect change within the Federation, in the education community, and in Canadian and
international society by recognizing, accommodating, and celebrating differences among people
and groups.

32.3 That the differences among people and groups and the provision of special programs for

particular groups, where appropriate, be recognized and accommodated within ETFO.

32.4 That support for learning, growth, personal identities, professionalism, working conditions, and

livelihood be included as a part of the ETFO commitment to protect and further the interests of
members.

32.5 That ongoing work in policy development, accountability, professional development,

communications, programs, and outreach be evidence of the ETFO commitment to equity and
social justice.

2014

ETFO’s “Statement on Social Justice and Equity,” approved by the Executive in 2002, is included as 
Appendix A to this report.