By Kerri Loudoun, Communications and marketing Portfolio Leader (kerri.loudoun@skipatrol.ca)
Next in the Know Your National article series, we explain the structure, function and current members of the EDI committee.
EDI committee - an overview
Equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are essential principles that promote fair treatment and full participation of all individuals within the Canadian Ski Patrol (CSP). The EDI committee, consisting of seven members from across the country, works to enhance these areas within the organization. Their focus includes communications, education, and external interfaces, with the goal of ensuring the CSP is inclusive for both membership and the public, supporting organizational growth, and aligning CSP membership with the general public's makeup.
EDI is crucial for delivering high-quality first aid care and customer service to an increasingly diverse public at ski hills. By embracing differences and recognizing unique lived experiences, patrollers can better empathize with and treat members of the public, form more meaningful connections with fellow patrollers, and feel comfortable being their authentic selves while on duty. This approach leads to a more cohesive and connected team, ultimately benefiting both the organization and the people it serves.
Meeting structure and frequency
The EDI Committee meets virtually once a month to brainstorm, discuss, and share ways to move EDI initiatives forward within the CSP. There are also ongoing conversations outside of the formal meetings to advance specific activities.
Committee members are located across multiple provinces so much of our detailed work is conducted over emails, online chats in Microsoft 365, and text messages but we always appreciate when one or two of us can meet face to face.
Core responsibilities
The EDI Committee’s core responsibilities include:
- Promote and support EDI within the CSP.
- Communicate with the membership on relevant EDI initiatives.
- Report on the progress of initiatives to the co-executive directors.
- Seek feedback from the membership.
- Provide input and advice to other committees.
- Provide a safe space for discussion and sharing of lived experiences (both by committee membership and others in the CSP).
- Understand the makeup of the CSP membership (through self-identification data).
How are committee members selected?
Committee membership terms last for two years, to provide sufficient opportunity to develop and advance the goals of the team. New members are selected through an application process, which is posted on the CSP website.
Our committee is looking for anyone who is passionate about the equity, diversity, and inclusion space. Formal experience or EDI training is certainly valuable, but the committee welcomes anyone who is interested in advancing EDI within the CSP. An open mind and an open heart are key qualifications.
Outside of the formal application timing, the committee is always seeking input and feedback on ways to improve the CSP.
If you are interested in finding out more information or have any questions, please feel free to contact Andrew Wytsma (EDI committee chair), andrew.wytsma@skipatrol.ca.
Impact on individual patrollers
When patrollers have a better understanding of their patients, they will deliver more effective first aid treatment. Many patients that we interact with are experiencing their worst day while skiing or snowboarding, and being able to consider and navigate potential biases can help make patients that much more comfortable when they need it most.
Studies show that organizations who embrace EDI are more efficient, more effective, and more enjoyable to work for. The CSP can ensure that we are the best place to work by ensuring that every one of our members is embraced and supported for exactly who they are. When patrollers show up as their genuine selves, they will enjoy their work more, deliver more effective patient care, and feel more connected to their patrol teams.
EDI committee members
Below is a list of the current committee members. We asked each individual to share a little about themselves so you can get to know each person better.
Click on each name to expand their profile.
This post is also available in: French