The principle, “Nothing about us without us” is an important consideration for Registrars and Student Services in higher education. But like any nice slogan, it can be reduced to lip service without actual, practical implementation. The ideals expressed in the Universities Canada statement on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion are followed with a section on what universities are doing and saying about EDI. These reports are inspiring and helpful.

Also, after I learned about the discovery of the unmarked graves of 215 First Nations children at the site of a former residential school in Kamloops, I made a new commitment to the goals expressed in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. As a side-benefit, reaching these goals will improve our services to all.

I believe it is important to hire staff who represent those we serve and who also represent the society at large. History has shown that large organizations and institutions can harm individuals and minorities sometimes willfully (Gord Downie of the Tragically Hip said about the people way up north: “That we were trained our entire lives to ignore.”), but also by ignorance. I believe we can make positive contributions to our universities, communities, and to all students by hiring people who represent our students, and can lead students and staff in better understanding and service. In the case of Trinity Western University, we have staff in the Registrar’s Office who represent people of other races and cultures, and they make us better at our jobs every day. But we can and will do more. We must also offer training and professional development opportunities that will contribute to the recruitment and retention of staff. Barriers, where they exist, must come down. Knowledge and skills must grow. This starts with education and respect, but also requires empathy, thoughtfulness, and care.

The history of Canada is a history of paternalism. Even if we have representation on staff we can still slide into unhelpful historical patterns. We must do more. But if we include those we serve in the decisions we make, we can hopefully avoid harm, and perhaps even do something positive.

“Nothing about us without us” is a good place to start.