Equality, Diversity and Inclusion conference 2022

08 Jun 2022

Thank you and next steps following the conference

On Tuesday, 24 May the Directorate of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) held their first internal EDI conference following the formation of the Directorate last year.

Together with colleagues from across all areas of the University, the morning was spent discussing experiences, challenges, and expectations looking towards the new three year EDI strategy which is due to go to Board for approval in July.

Banji Adewumi, Director of EDI, said: “A big thank you to all who attended but especially those who facilitated the workshops and discussions including: Nalin Thakkar (Vice-President), Dawn Edge (Academic Lead for EDI – Race and Religion), Rachel Cowen (Academic Lead for EDI – Gender and Sexual Orientation), and our University’s fantastic Disabled Staff Network co-Chairs - Jessica Boland and Kirsty Hutchison (plus Hamied Harroon Chair of National Association of Disabled Staff Networks) who took the lead of our Disability and Age Workshop.

We were delighted to have had so many people join on the day, with our virtual attendees also able to feel part of the proceedings by watching the presentations, asking questions, and discussing the workshop topics in their own online virtual room. The workshops discussed challenges and solutions based on key protected characteristic groups whilst also highlighting our three main priorities of the EDI strategy: inclusive environment and culture, diversity and equity across our community, and inclusive practice.  Many of the comments and discussions highlighted intersectionality and embedding EDI across all that we do at the University of Manchester.” 

The event included pledge-cards which were used to encourage attendees to take ownership over the actions we can all implement in our work to improve equality, diversity and inclusion. We had several fantastic responses ranging from ensuring project Equality Impact Assessments, to becoming more involved in Equality Charter Marks, to joining Staff Networks. 

Another EDI Conference will be held in 2023. 

More information

If you were unable to attend the EDI conference and wish to share your experiences and ideas please email equalityanddiversity@manchester.ac.uk