By Eleanor Culver, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee Member (eleanor.culver@skipatrol.ca) 

The equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) committee of the CSP promotes thoughtful dialogue and fosters inclusive spaces across our community. As part of these efforts, we want to discuss the value of adopting a calling-in versus a calling-out approach when addressing problematic behaviours, biases, or comments in our workplace and patrol environment. 

What’s the difference?

  • Calling-out approach: This method involves publicly pointing out someone’s behaviour or comment as inappropriate, often to hold them accountable. While this approach can raise awareness about specific issues, it can also lead to shame or defensiveness, potentially halting meaningful dialogue.
  • Calling-in approach: A more compassionate alternative, calling-in focuses on private, respectful conversations to build understanding and foster growth. This approach invites people to reflect on their actions, ask questions, and learn without feeling shamed or ostracized.

Why calling-in matters for the CSP

Our goal within the CSP is to create an environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected. The CSP thrives on teamwork, trust, and shared responsibility, and how we engage with one another reflects those values. By embracing a calling-in approach, we focus on:

  1. Growth and learning: Recognizing that not every misstep is intentional, and people need space to learn and improve.
  2. Building stronger teams: Encouraging open communication and fostering psychological safety, where members feel comfortable discussing complex topics.
  3. Sustaining long-term change: Shifting from punishment-based reactions to a supportive culture of accountability and improvement.

When and how to call-in

There may be instances where behaviours or comments must be addressed immediately to prevent harm. However, a calling-in approach can lead to more meaningful change when the situation allows. Here’s how:

  1. Private conversations: Speak to the individual one-on-one where they can reflect without feeling judged.
  2. Assume good intentions: Approach the discussion from a place of curiosity rather than accusation—ask questions to understand the individual’s perspective.
  3. Explain the impact: Help the person understand how their words or actions affected others rather than focusing solely on their intent.
  4. Offer support: Provide resources or suggestions for learning and improving moving forward.
  5. Follow-up: Check in after the conversation to show that the goal was to foster growth and maintain relationships.

Creating an inclusive patrol culture

The CSP thrives when all members feel included and empowered. By adopting a calling-in mindset, we can:

  • Encourage more meaningful conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Build resilience within our teams by emphasizing continuous learning and improvement.
  • Strengthen our patrol culture, ensuring every member feels supported in their personal and professional growth.

Equity and inclusion work is ongoing, and no one gets it right all the time. By choosing to call-in rather than call-out, we can create a more inclusive environment where mistakes are met with understanding, and everyone is allowed to learn and grow.

Let’s continue building a CSP community rooted in empathy, accountability, and mutual respect.

A shift toward inclusion: embracing a calling-in approach at the CSP

This post is also available in: French