Announcements

When:
December 10, 2020

Each December, the Faculty of Health Sciences & Wellness collects non-perishable food and other needed items in support of Ernestine's Women's Shelter. While the pandemic prevents us from making our usual physical donations, as you may have seen announced in last month's College Council Highlights, we are continuing the tradition through a drive for monetary donations, and wish to extend the invitation to the entire Humber College community this year. 

As a global community, we are going through an unprecedented time due to the COVID-19 crisis. The Holiday season can also add to the stress and anxiety for survivors of gender-based violence. Being away from family, finding yourself in a new environment, and the financial pressures of the holidays are only a few of the reasons why this time of the year can be extremely difficult for Ernestine’s clients. Your generous donation will help ensure that Ernestine’s continues to provide support to all the women and children in the shelter and out in the community.

Since opening in Etobicoke in 1983, they have sheltered and supported over 10,000 women and children, and through their Outreach Program, also currently provide counselling services, crisis assistance, skills exchange initiatives, and a food bank for over 400 women and children across the GTA.

Please visit our Canada Helps page before January 1, 2021, to donate.

We thank you in advance for your support and generosity!

Your friends in the Faculty of Health Sciences & Wellness

When:
December 10, 2020

The 50 – 30 Challenge is an initiative between the Government of Canada, business and diversity organizations. The goal of the program is to challenge Canadian organizations to increase the representation and inclusion of diverse groups within their workplace, while highlighting the benefits of giving all Canadians a seat at the table.

Innovation, Science and Industry has been working with stakeholders, partners, and diversity organizations in a bottom-up approach to create the 50 – 30 Challenge. Over 500 organizations, including Humber, have signed on as early adopters. Minister Bains formally announced the initiative earlier today.

The 50 – 30 Challenge asks that organizations aspire to two goals:

  1. Gender parity ("50%") on Canadian board(s) and senior management; and
  2. Significant representation ("30%") on Canadian board(s) and senior management of other under-represented groups, including racialized persons, people living with disabilities (including invisible and episodic disabilities) and members of the LGBTQ2 community. The program and participants recognize that First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples as founding peoples of Canada are under-represented in positions of economic influence and leadership.

Humber is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community of exceptional students, faculty and staff. We have been working towards developing an EDI framework and implementation plan that will lead to concrete and measurable equity, diversity and inclusion outcomes for both students and employees. Signing on to participate in the 50-30 challenge represents an important step towards advancing diversity and inclusion on boards and in senior management.

Today’s announcement includes $33 million in funding over three years to create and access tools and resources that will help organizations advance diversity and inclusion in workplaces across Canada. Furthermore, the Standards Council of Canada, Canada’s respected standards and accreditation organization, will collaborate with the 50-30 Challenge partner organizations to develop a guidance document. The Council’s guidance document is part of a broader standardization strategy that will serve as a roadmap for organizations of various sizes and sectors across the country to achieve measurable, concrete change.

More information about the Challenge can be found here: http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/icgc.nsf/eng/07706.html

When:
December 10, 2020
Contact:
Aaron Brown
Posters/Attachments: Event Poster

The Consent Peer Education Program is pleased to offer virtual live sessions of the Bringing in the Bystander training program. Bringing in the Bystander is a two-hour workshop during which participants will gain an understanding of sexual violence, rape culture, consent, and how to intervene in instances of sexual violence; through a series of activities, participants engage with these topics and develop empathy for survivors of sexual assault.

If you are interested in having the training incorporated into your course or facilitated for students you work with, please fill out our Workshop Request Form.

To learn more about the program, email bystanderprogram@humber.ca or visit our Bystander Intervention at the Humber College/University of Guelph-Humber webpage.

When:
December 10, 2020

Building Connections

Connection and connectedness can mean many things to different people. As part of our Wellness Series for Employees, we are striving to help foster virtual connections between employees across Humber. We invite you to participate in some of the happenings currently underway and be sure to stay tuned for more opportunities in the coming weeks.

Virtual Book Club

On Friday, January 22, 2021 from 1pm - 2pm, we will be holding the first College-wide Virtual Book Club. We will begin with introductions and sharing what we have been reading recently.  It will be a chance to get some book recommendations and to get know each other.

For more information and to register, please click here.

Affirmation Card Making

A reminder for those interested, there is still time to sign up for the next Wednesday Wellness session which will help promote creativity and encourage self-care.  Please visit our Healthy Work From Home Resources website to pre-register for our event scheduled on Wednesday, December 16, 2020.

As always, throughout the next few weeks, please get social with us using #HealthyHumber.

Human Resources & Organizational Effectiveness

When:
December 10, 2020
Contact:
Julie Stewart

As of 10 p.m. on December 10, 2020, Banner FlexReg, the system currently used to register students in continuous and professional learning and corporate training workshops, courses and programs, will be replaced with the FlexReg Sustainment and Humber Identity solution.

  1. The FlexReg Sustainment solution is a replacement front-end (User Interface) for Banner FlexReg. As of January 1, 2021, Adobe Flash will no longer be supported. The FlexReg Sustainment solution is not reliant on Adobe Flash.

    The FlexReg Sustainment solution will be used until courses are transitioned to Destiny One.
     
  2. A new module “Humber Identity” will allow applicants to create a new person record in Banner, or to access an existing person record after identity validation.

New step-by-step instructions for using the FlexReg Sustainment solution will be posted on the CE webpage as of December 11.

Any further questions can be directed to Julie Stewart at julie.stewart@humber.ca.

When:
December 10, 2020
MS Teams Tip - Channel Your Work!

Did you know you can create additional channels in your team? By default, when you create a team, it automatically creates a General channel. And you can do all your team work within that channel. But, if you want to categorize your work, or have mini groups within your team, you can create more channels.

Learn the basics of Teams by signing up to 1:1 Virtual Coaching at its.humber.ca/coaching.

When:
December 10, 2020

This month’s Orangeville Campus reflection spotlight focuses on the Police Foundations Program (PFP). The PFP program has been offered at Humber Orangeville since 2007 and is one of the campus’ flagship programs. Many of our graduates have furthered their education and/or careers in their chosen field. Here are a few highlights from students, staff, and faculty:

Brandon Lohwinow, PFP Graduate (2014) – First Class Constable, Halton Regional Police Service
My best memories from Humber Orangeville include receiving the Orangeville Police Service Award, being involved and meeting some great people within the community. The campus afforded me the opportunity to meet lifelong friends and develop and gain skills that I use in my everyday career in policing. I attribute my success in the field to the wonderful and dedicated staff and thank them for their commitment to their students and providing a sense of comfort and family to those within the program. I am currently a first class Constable with the Halton Regional Police Service.

Adam Sampson, PFP Graduate (2020) – Undergraduate student, University of Waterloo, Youth Justice Committee Member, Associated Youth Services of Peel
My experience at Humber Orangeville surpassed expectations – both in academics and inclusion. The sense of community that the campus embodies far surpasses any educational environment I’ve seen. The professionalism, empathy, and passion the faculty exhibited is unmatched – always ensuring that student well-being and success came first. Graduating from both the GAS and PFP programs thoroughly prepared me for further educational pursuits, while building me into a better student, a better leader but most importantly a better member of my community. The skills and knowledge gifted to me by Humber Orangeville has allowed me to aim higher and achieve more than I ever thought possible. I am currently enrolled as an Undergraduate student at the University of Waterloo and serve as a Youth Justice Committee Member with the Associated Youth Services of Peel.

Tyler Shibley, PFP Graduate (2016) – O.P.P. Officer 
Humber Orangeville gave me the opportunity to better myself not only as a person, but also as an applicant for future employment with the O.P.P. I was able to learn from a very experienced and well diversified group of teachers, where some were retired Police Officers, and others worked in related fields. This allowed me to get the best experience possible learning in this program, and to prepare for a future in law enforcement. I took some amazing classes that allowed me to develop a great foundation of knowledge in pursuit of becoming a police officer. I was given many opportunities to volunteer with the Orangeville Police Service as well as other volunteer events that allowed for the chance to give back to the community and try to make a positive difference in people’s lives. I believe without any doubt that Humber Orangeville contributed greatly to my success in becoming hired with the O.P.P. in the fall of 2016.

Claire Parrish, PFP Graduate (2019) – University of Guelph-Humber Justice Studies Student
Being at the Humber Orangeville campus was a great experience. Due to class sizes being small, you were able to connect well with peers and professors. Morag and Linda were a huge help if you needed assistance with course selection or any issues with class, along with offering advice. Joe was also always a huge help on campus. Overall, going to Humber Orangeville was a great experience. After finishing the Police Foundations Program, I was able to get into the University of Guelph-Humber, which has been a great experience so far. My future goal is to end up working as a police officer.

Amanda Crognale, PFP Program Professor and Student Support Advisor
Humber Orangeville has always felt like a second home to me. In my time here, I have met some wonderful colleagues and developed friendships that will last a lifetime. The support, mentorship and opportunities for professional development will never be forgotten. Our team of faculty and administrative staff always went the extra mile to ensure that a student's academic experience at Humber Orangeville was a special one. I always enjoyed participating in the student orientation sessions held during the month of August. Being surrounded by so many students eager to start their education and learn more about the field of policing was so rewarding. There is just something so remarkable about collaborating with bright individuals who are compassionately driven to make the world a better place. 

Mary MacLachlan, PFP Program Professor
From the first day I started at Orangeville more than 10 years ago to the last, I always felt that I was part of something special. Special due to the leadership and friendship of Joe Andrews. Special because of the caring and compassion of Morag Tierney, and special because of the amazing faculty who always made the place feel like home. Orangeville Campus was nothing short of exceptional. The bond we shared at Orangeville was unique and no passage of time or distance can undo the friendships and memories made. To all our Alumni, thank you for enriching my life and making me a better person. It was an honour to be part of Orangeville Campus. “Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened” (Dr. Seuss).

We are so proud of our PFP graduates and commend them for their commitment to law enforcement. Look for the next Orangeville Campus reflection focusing on the ECE – Early Childhood Education program in January.

On behalf of the Orangeville Campus, we’d like to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.

Joe Andrews
Principal – Orangeville Campus

When:
December 9, 2020

Are you looking for a simple way to incorporate more movement and mindfulness into your day? Our Humber Athletics Team has developed a new video that is suited for anyone who’s ever thought:

  • I need a simple routine that is easy to follow along
  • I want to stretch more when I’m sitting at my desk
  • I would love to exercise, without getting too sweaty
  • I need to somehow squeeze exercise into my already busy day
  • I want to stretch and move, but I don’t have a lot of space

Chair Yoga is for you! Click here to view the newest video from Humber Athletics. All you need is a chair and you’re ready to go! *No yoga experience required*

Take a moment to pause, recharge, and re-centre – without even stepping away from your desk. 

Visit the Humber Fitness YouTube channel to view even more inspiring activities to help you on your wellness journey. #HealthyHumber

 

Human Resources & Organizational Effectiveness

When:
December 8, 2020
Contact:
Nancy Simms
Tel:
x4425

I am pleased to announce that Patricia Suleiman has accepted the position of Advisor, Human Rights, Equity & Diversity effective December 7, 2020. This position reports to the Director of Human Rights, Equity & Diversity.

Patricia completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from McMaster University, she completed her Juris Doctorate degree from the University Of Montana School Of Law, and she completed the Internationally Trained Lawyers Program at the University of Toronto. Patricia received her National Committee of Accreditation Certificate of Qualification, and was called to the Ontario Bar.

Patricia previously held the position of Staff Lawyer at the Black Legal Action Centre (BLAC), where she provided legal representation to Ontarians facing individual or systemic anti-Black racism issues. During her time at BLAC her areas of practice included: human rights, employment, education, and housing law. Patricia routinely provided public legal education sessions and trainings to community members and organizations. Patricia is also a Mentor in Blazing Trails Mentorship Program for 2020/2021.

Patricia has a strong commitment to advance human rights, equity, diversity, and inclusion in both the workplace and learning environment.

Please join Centre staff in welcoming Patricia to Humber College!

Nancy Simms M.A. ADR
Director, Human Rights, Equity & Diversity
Ed.D. Candidate OISE | University of Toronto

When:
December 7, 2020
Contact:
Zareena Khan
Tel:
x4825
Posters/Attachments: Event Poster

Sharing Knowledge

Humber College is committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive culture in which all members of the College community study, work and live free from discrimination and harassment.

December 6 - National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women

The National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women is commemorated on December 6.

On December 6, 1989 fourteen (14) female engineering students at l'École Polytechnique de Montréal were murdered by an act of gender-based violence. On this date we commemorate the lives of all women who have experienced gender-based violence.

December 6 is a date that we re-affirm our commitment to take action and help all women who experience gender-based violence.

The following statistics illuminate the experiences of women, girls, 2SLGBTQQIA and gender diverse individuals in Canada:

  • More than one (1) in three (3) women experience domestic violence through their lifetime.
  • Indigenous women are killed at six (6) times the rate of non-Indigenous women.
  • Persons with disabilities are between 50% and 100% more likely than those without disabilities to have experienced violence by a spouse.
  • A woman is killed by her intimate partner approximately every six (6) days.
  • Trans women are almost twice as likely as cisgender women to experience gender-based violence in their lifetime.
    (Public Service Alliance of Canada, 2019)

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls in Canada

We remind everyone of the statistics of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls in Canada:

  • Indigenous women make up 16% of all female homicide victims, and 11% of missing women, even though Indigenous people make up 4.3% of the population of Canada.
  • The 2014 RCMP Operational Overview notes that police recorded 1,017 incidents of Aboriginal female homicides between 1980 and 2012 and 164 missing Aboriginal female investigations dating back to 1952.  There have been a number of reports indicating numbers are significantly higher.
  • Current public data on MMIWG oversimplifies and underrepresents the scale of the issue, yet still demonstrates a complex and pervasive pattern of violence against Indigenous women and girls who are often targeted because of their gender and Indigenous identity.
  • Violence against Indigenous women and girls is systemic and a national crisis that requires urgent, informed and collaborative action.

White Ribbon Day

White Ribbon Day”: Created in 1991, coincides with the National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women –it is a call to action to men.

Men wear white ribbons as a “pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women and girls” (White Ribbon, 2020).

White Ribbon is the world’s largest movement of men and boys working to end violence against women and girls, promote gender equity, healthy relationships and a new vision of masculinity. Since its inception in Toronto in 1991, The White Ribbon Campaign has spread to over 60 countries around the world (White Ribbon, 2020).

COVID-19 & Intimate Partner Violence

Across Canada and the world Intimate partner violence (domestic violence) has increased by 20% to 30% since the COVID-19 pandemic (Norton Rose Fulbright LLP).

With many women forced to remain in their homes during the worldwide lockdowns and closings of public spaces and job sites, a third pandemic has arisen. Women are isolated and left with only help lines for assistance.

Support & Crisis Help Lines

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, support and crisis help lines can be found through the following organizations:

  1. Disabled Women’s Network of Canada (DAWN)
  2. DRAW THE LINE
  3. Ontario Coalition of Rape Crisis Centres (OCRCC)
  4. Ontario Network of Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Treatment Centres
  5. Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services
  6. Talk4Healing: A Helpline for Aboriginal Women
  7. Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic

Recommended Readings

  1. Assembly of First Nations. (2020). Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Ending Violence
  2. Canadian Femicide Observatory for Justice and Accountability. (2020). Remembering Women and Girls Killed by Violence
  3. Disabled Women’s Network of Canada (DAWN). (2020). Crisis Hotlines
  4. Evans, M., Lindauer, M. & Farrell, M. (September 16, 2020). The New England Journal of Medicine: A Pandemic within a Pandemic — Intimate Partner Violence during Covid-19
  5. National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. (2019). Reclaiming Power and Place: The Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
  6. Norton Rose Fulbright LLP. (August 31, 2020). Not turning a blind eye: addressing domestic violence, telework, and pandemic-related employment considerations in Canada
  7. Status of Women Canada. (November 15, 2019). The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women
  8. Taub, A. (April 14, 2020). The New York Times:  A New Covid-19 Crisis: Domestic Abuse Rises Worldwide
  9. United Nations. (2020). International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - 25 November
  10. Western University. (2020). COVID-19 and Violence Against Women & Children
  11. White Ribbon. (2020). Our future has no violence against women and girls

This document is available in an alternate format upon request.

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