By Beatrice Morrison – Contributor

In 2020, the world faced unprecedented challenges. While the COVID-19 pandemic isolated us, the murder of George Floyd brought the Black Lives Matter movement to the forefront. 

During  this time of isolation and urgent calls for change, the Bishop’s University basketball teams held a pivotal Zoom meeting, united by their shared pain and anger. From this conversation, the Anti-Racism and Discrimination Committee (ARDC) was born with a mission to unite student-athletes and establish a zero-tolerance policy for racism and discrimination within our community. 

Over the past four years, the ARDC has grown and evolved, but its core values of  accountability, leadership, empowerment, reconciliation and advocacy have remained steadfast. The committee actively works to reduce racism, discrimination and prejudice through 

education, celebration, decolonization and collaboration. Originally an athletics-focused group, the ARDC has expanded its scope to serve the entire Bishop’s community, ensuring that every 

Gaiter, regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation, feels proud to call Bishop’s University their home. 

Recognizing that some individuals may be unaware of the daily racism and discrimination faced by others, the ARDC is dedicated to combating this inequity. 

Through responsive, equity-based educational programming, we empower the Bishop’s community. In the 2023-24 academic year alone, the ARDC hosted seven educational events for students and faculty, totalling 366 attendees. These events included O’Week Trivia, LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Allyship Workshops, and our signature event, Anti-Racism Uncorked. 

Our initiatives have left a lasting impact, promoting anti-discriminatory and anti-racist growth at Bishop’s University.   

The committee collaborates with mental health professionals to create safe spaces for honest and difficult conversations. As a student-led group, we demonstrate the power and impact that young people can have when they stand together for their beliefs against systemic silencing. 

Founded on the principles of combating social injustices such as racism, discrimination and sexism, the ARDC’s comprehensive platform affects every member of the community. Locally, we work closely with Bishop’s staff and students, influencing the university’s policies, including the revision of the Student Code of Conduct. Nationally, we collaborate with the Maple League of Universities to spread our message and explore student-led Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) initiatives at other institutions. The ARDC’s influence is also reflected in the high international and out-of-province student population at Bishop’s. The 366 attendees of ARDC 

events carry our teachings back to their home communities worldwide. Through dedication and tireless efforts, the ARDC at Bishop’s University is making a profound difference locally, internationally and globally. Our work serves as a testament to the power of student-led initiatives in driving meaningful change. 

Upcoming Event: Anti-Racism Uncorked 

Mark your calendars for February 25th, from 7-9 PM at the Gait, for this year’s Anti-Racism Uncorked. The event promises free drink tickets, food, and no cost to attend!