Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Our Commitment

At Island Health, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace and healthcare system where staff and patients of all backgrounds and identities feel safe, welcomed, and experience a true sense of belonging. We recognize that employees from diverse backgrounds bring valuable perspectives, knowledge, and skills that enrich the workplace for everyone.

We acknowledge the systemic barriers, biases, and inequities that continue to impact Indigenous Peoples, people with disabilities or specific health conditions, racialized communities, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, women, and others who face stigma, discrimination, or marginalization.

Addressing these inequities requires meaningful and measurable actions, supported by ongoing community engagement, strong leadership, dedicated resources, accountability, and transparency.

We are committed to upholding the inherent rights of Indigenous Peoples (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) and supporting equity-deserving groups, including racialized individuals, 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, and people with disabilities.

Equitable access to services, facilities, accommodations, and employment is a fundamental right. This includes fair hiring practices and safe work environments. Ensuring these rights requires providing unbiased opportunities for equity-deserving groups, who often face disproportionate barriers to employment.

Island Health proudly supports two active Employee Resource Groups: the 2SLGBTQIA+ Group and the Indigenous, Black, and People of Colour (IBPOC) Group. Plans are also underway to establish an Accessibility Group. These groups create safe spaces for staff to share their experiences, amplify their collective voices, and drive organizational change toward a more equitable and inclusive workplace.