Introduction

Oxfam Canada is working toward a just and sustainable world by fighting inequality and patriarchy to end poverty and injustice. We are a feminist organization with a deeply held conviction that ending poverty begins with advancing the rights of women, girls and gender non-conforming people –in all their diversity. However, we cannot fight inequality, or end poverty and patriarchy, unless we understand and challenge intersecting systems of oppression –racism, colonialism, sexism, cissexism, heterosexism, classism, ageism, ableism, xenophobia and others – especially if they are present in our organization.

Oxfam Canada first established a Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) committee (which later became the Anti-Racism and Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee) in 2017. The committee’s work was guided by Oxfam Canada’s 2018 Feminist Principles. In 2021, Oxfam Canada released its Strategic Framework 2021-2025 with a clear commitment to grow as a feminist, anti-racist and inclusive organization, as well as the first Plan of Action on Anti-Racism, Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) 2021-2022. This Plan of Action focused on three main areas: a) organizational strategy, internal culture, policies and systems; b) ongoing learning and dialogue and c) programming, outreach and advocacy. on Oxfam Canada’s work to grow as an anti-racist, feminist and inclusive organization

The Strategic Framework 2021-2025 committed to publishing regular updates on actions taken in support of our anti-racism strategy. This report will look at the work undertaken by Oxfam Canada to support this action plan and identify next steps.