JUSTICE, EQUITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION POLICY

1. Our Commitment 

SAD Mag is an independent Vancouver publication committed to publishing the best of contemporary and emerging artists, with a focus on inclusivity of voices and views, exceptional design, and film photography. We strive toward inclusivity and diversity across all platforms, including our print publication, website, social media, podcast, and in-person events. 

We are dedicated to proactively seeking out and publishing underrepresented voices, respecting race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, ability, citizenship, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, same sex partnership, age, marital status, family status, immigration status, receipt of public assistance, history of mental health issues, health status, political affiliation, learning difference, level of literacy, accent, first language, body type, neurodiversity, or socio-economic status. We prioritize contributions from emerging writers and artists of all ages, regardless of formal training or previous experience.

SAD is committed to building workplace diversity with respect to all aspects of engagement and volunteerism. We are proud that women, people of colour, Indigenous people, and members of the queer community are represented across our board and staff.

We recognize that there is more work to be done to achieve diversity across all of SAD’s activities. This is a living policy that is revisited by our Board of Directors throughout the year. 


2. Definitions

Diversity: the presence of a wide range of human qualities and attributes within an individual, group or organization. Diversity includes such factors as age, race, physical and intellectual ability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, educational background and expertise. 

Inclusion: appreciating and using our unique differences – strengths, talents, weaknesses and frailties – in a way that shows respect for the individual and ultimately creates a dynamic multi-dimensional organization. 

3.  Diversity and Inclusion Strategy

SAD commits to:

  • Not tolerating any form of intimidation, bullying, or harassment

  • Fostering an environment where contributions of all team members are recognised and valued, and where differences of opinion are welcomed 

  • Developing an active strategy that evaluates SAD's role as a cultural platform for emerging creators and our responsibility to cultivate sustainable, collaborative relationships with cultural communities that catalyze and empower

  • Supporting the Diversity and Inclusion committee in regularly reviewing all our practices and procedures

  • Making the Diversity and Inclusion policy part of our on-boarding for new writers, artists, staff, and board members

  • Removing barriers to participation in issue submissions, events, and volunteerism 

  • Implementing a concern reporting process that is safe, discreet, and respectful

  • Encouraging anyone who feels they have been subject to discrimination to raise their concerns so we can apply corrective measures 

  • Setting aside a portion of the budget for yearly diversity and inclusion training, development, and progression opportunities available to all staff and Board

  • A regular process of re-evaluation and revision with the engagement of community voices to acknowledge diversity and inclusion as an ongoing practice that reflects evolving the learnings and best practices

4. Responsibilities

Board of Directors: To approve and review diversity policy; 

SAD Publishers: To oversee day-to-day implementation; ensure the entire editorial and creative team embodies values and supports implementation;

All Staff: To treat all other staff, contributors, and community partners with dignity and respect and in a fair and non-discriminatory manner 

5. Legal 

We will follow legal requirements of the BC Human Rights Code.  

In order to discharge its obligations under this policy, SAD will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate the particular needs of employees, contractors, volunteers, writers, artists, and performance subject to operational requirements. 

All policies are reviewed annually.