Awad Ibrahim

Imagine everyone wearing a different pair of glasses. That's the beauty and challenge of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) – it's the lens through which we view the world, a product of our unique experience. This approach acknowledges the complexity of EDI by recognising that true belonging comes from fostering an environment that embraces the full spectrum of perspectives.

Max Webber, Co-Host of The Interview, chatted with Awad Ibrahim, Vice-Provost of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusive Excellence at the University of Ottawa, to speak about their approach to achieving excellence in EDI. 

Awad's Journey

Max: Let's start with a brief introduction to yourself and your institution.

I’m Awad Ibrahim, Vice-Provost of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusive Excellence at the University of Ottawa. I’ve been a Full Professor at the Faculty of Education since 2007, where I hold the Air Canada Professorship on Anti-Racism. Our EDI excellence mission supports the University of Ottawa’s 48,000 student body and 5,000 staff members.  

Max: What drew you to working in EDI?

There’s a sociology axiom – different bodies bring different forms of knowledge. Our experiences shape how we live our lives and interact with others. I’ve had my own experiences of microaggression and racism; I’ve also spent 20+ years studying in this space. Through my life experiences and investment in theory and research, EDI has become second nature to me. 

Max: What’s been most important in creating a sense of inclusion for all students at the University of Ottawa?

I insisted on adding ‘Excellence’ to my EDI role title. I want to enable what I call ‘wide-awake’ inclusion; that is, inclusion that is mindful of its history and limitations so people can feel a true sense of belonging. Unfortunately, EDI can be viewed as an add-on. The research shows that this approach doesn’t work; in fact, in the long term, it has a negative effect. I like to use glasses as a metaphor; EDI is the lens through which we view our lives and others. No two people are wearing the same pair of glasses; this is why we need to view EDI as context-specific.

Max: How do you approach driving engagement with EDI initiatives at scale?

We can’t reach all students at the same level, but we can create a structure that allows a culture of EDI to seep through our community. You want EDI to become an everyday practice for staff and students. My vision for EDI is this: when students join the University of Ottawa community, they engage daily with peers and staff who are mindful of EDI. We build a sense of belonging and inclusion by creating an atmosphere where people can feel at home as themselves. 

Max: How are you working to ensure students engage with one another respectfully, particularly in light of the increasingly polarizing political landscape? 

I coin these courageous conversations; they’re topics people feel uncomfortable discussing and tend to avoid. At present, the situation in the Middle East is one such topic; it is affecting members of the university community. Universities are places where people can hold opposing opinions; we need to actively facilitate courageous conversations habitually. By doing this, we can teach our students how to communicate with respect, civility, and courage.