Two KPU instructors receive inaugural Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Award

Fri, Jun 18, 2021

Two instructors are being recognized by Kwantlen Polytechnic University for their justice, equity, diversity and inclusion work.

Business instructor Anita Sangha and applied communications instructor Arley Cruthers are the first recipients of the Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Award, which celebrates members of the KPU community who demonstrate outstanding commitment, innovation, and leadership towards social justice, dismantling systemic barriers, and building a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion.

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Two instructors are being recognized by Kwantlen Polytechnic University for their justice, equity, diversity and inclusion work.
“This award means a great deal to me as I am doing work that helps rectify the wrongs of the past,” says Sangha “So many people have faced exclusion whether it be their gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity or race, and the list goes on and on.

“We are Canadians and we are known to the world as being friendly, nice and peaceful. I’d like the world to add “inclusive” to the stereotype of a Canadian. This would be a very positive stereotype.”

Sangha has been key in conducting workshops at KPU and elsewhere on embedding interculturalism, diversity, and inclusion in the business curriculum.

Cruthers, a retired Paralympian and an advocate for wheelchair sports, says she is honoured to receive the award. “As a disabled instructor, it’s important for me to be vocal about inclusivity and accessibility,” she adds.

Cruthers has been key in creating resources to support Universal Design for Learning and organizing anti-oppression workshops for students and employees at KPU.

All current KPU employees and students are eligible to be nominated for the award.

Learn more about this award and nominate a deserving recipient.