Organized by Colloquia, HxCanada, and the McGill HxA Campus Community | April 25-26, 2024 | This two-day conference explores the impacts, both positive and negative, of EDI and race ideologies on Canadian university campuses

With the increase in equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives at Canadian universities, race and race ideology are ever more common topics of discussion. However, open dialogue around these topics is incredibly difficult, with many students, faculty, and administrators choosing to not express their opinions out of fear of being labeled or facing other negative consequences. Furthermore, it has been suggested that diversity and inclusion initiatives are in fact creating more division, and potentially more conflict on campus. Finally, it is not always clear if the EDI initiatives being put forward in universities in Canada are actually helping racial minorities.

During this 3rd annual Colloquia conference, the value of EDI and the interplay of race ideology and EDI will be explored, with a particular focus on how these ideas and initiatives impact viewpoint diversity, constructive disagreement, and open inquiry at Canadian universities. Day 1 of the conference will consist of a series of online presentations, whereas Day 2 will present a dialogue between individuals who are heavily involved in the fields of race, race ideology, and EDI. The dialogue held on Day 2 can be attended online or in person at McGill University.

With this conference, we aim to further our understanding of these issues, but also to model intellectual humility and curiosity, as well as respectful dialogue between individuals who may have a different point of view.

This event was made possible through funds provided by Heterodox Academy and The Institute for Liberal Studies. Registration for this 3rd Colloquia conference is free.