From Intent to Action: Reconciliation and Inclusion in Three Canadian Academic Libraries

A sense of belonging and inclusion creates conditions for individuals and organizations to thrive. Many Canadian university libraries have been initiating actions which advance reconciliation with Indigenous communities in Canada, and to support equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging. Efforts to operationalize reconciliation and inclusion share important qualities yet require distinctive approaches due to historic and contemporary factors. Reconciliation in Canada must recognize the significance and centrality of the land to Indigenous communities. While inclusion strives to more broadly create conditions in which individuals may thrive, with a focus on those from groups who have historically faced systemic barriers. For both reconciliation and inclusion, progress means creating a greater sense of belonging in libraries for both library staff and library users. As organizations, how do we go about making these cultural changes in a sustained and sustainable manner? In this session, three university libraries will briefly share their approaches in “operationalizing” culture change. In each case, organizational practices, structures and strategies will reflect a particular cultural landscape, institutional priorities, and regional history, but situated within an overall Canadian context, and precipitated by specific catalyzing events, such as the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, instances of anti-black racism, among others. Despite differences, a sense of urgency and momentum have driven work in each of the institutions, yet also increasingly observed are moments of fatigue, despair, apathy, and inertia. The short presentations will be followed by table discussions to share ideas and reflect on how we can support each other in this work.