News

As ARIDO’s work with Matrix360 continues towards advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility continues, we are pleased to share the results of an organizational audit recently conducted into ARIDO’s internal governance, marketing, communications, leadership processes, and policies through an equity lens. This audit supports the recommendations outlined within the Phase 1 report released by Matrix360 in fall 2021 which was in response to the Matrix DIV.e.IN™ survey results obtained Spring 2021.

The audit, designed and executed by Matrix360, is the The Chandy Principle™ Diversity and Equity Workplace Audit (DEWA). It was undertaken in Phase II of ARIDO’s work and uncovers insights through an examination of the organization’s culture, demographics, leadership teams, employee and member perspectives, and policies and procedures.

The DEWA audit provides a holistic perspective of organization’s diversity and equity progress, as well as opportunities to create processes and policies that further expand an organization’s commitment to a culture of excellence. The DEWA process carefully reviews, evaluates, and provides commentary on the current state of the organization’s workplace and framework through uncovering any hidden gaps, blind spots, and victories that are built into it.

The DEWA audit has revealed that ARIDO’s current state is similar to many other organizations in relation to diversity, equity, and accessibility: improvements are needed to its existing infrastructure and culture, and these improvements must be a priority in order to truly advance the current state for the entire ARIDO community.

Throughout our journey, we have learned the need look inward, as needed, and identify where we can do better while also learning to reflect and have meaningful discussions to increase our collective awareness and actions. This has helped us to foster more thoughtful discussions and decisions that can positively impact the future of the organization, leadership, our members, and the broader community.

ARIDO’s 2022/2023 Strategic Plan is centered around a Bold Statement which confirms the organization’s commitment to honouring its responsibility as an industry leader to forge a new pathway to advance equity and diverse representation through actionable programs and policies.

We share this audit report and action plan with our members, design community, and the public at large to demonstrate our commitment to equity, transparency, progressive change, and leadership growth across the entire community.

Read the The Chandy Principle™ Diversity and Equity Workplace Audit (DEWA).

While ARIDO continues its journey and work, we recognize the audit results reflect that we are in the early stages of our work, but we remain committed and invested to reinforcing value, fostering community, and inclusive engagement. We have much work ahead of us and are excited to continue our journey of growth and pave a pathway for others to join us.

We encourage our members and community to review the audit report including the multi-year action plan that outlines our steps for progress. This action plan will form priorities for our Annual Strategic Plan over the next several years in combination with the ongoing work and initiatives of the organization’s programs and services.

It is highly encouraged to review the previously shared Matrix DIV.e.IN™ Survey Report and The Chandy Principle™ Phase One Report to better understand the demographics and perspectives of ARIDO.

For any questions or comments, please contact Sharon Portelli, Executive Director & Registrar at sportelli@arido.ca.