Join us for a transformative journey with the "Driving Change in Healthcare: Equitable Research in Action (ERA) Workshop Series." This series is designed to empower researchers, trainees, and research staff with the knowledge and tools to incorporate Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism (EDIAR) principles into their work. Through interactive, discussion-based sessions led by experienced facilitators and thought leaders, participants gain practical tools and strategies to build more inclusive, community-engaged, and socially accountable research environments. Attendees will have the opportunity to attend individual sessions or commit to a cohort experience, culminating in a community of practice that provides a safe space for ongoing support and collaboration.

Click here to download the flyer for this series.

Who Should Participate?

Any researchers, trainees, and research staff across disciplines – both within the Toronto Academic Health Science Network (TAHSN) and beyond – who are committed to embedding equity and inclusion in research design, fostering inclusive team culture, and strengthening community engagement.

Application Period: November 17th – December 19th, 2025
Registration Deadline for approved applicants is December 19th, 2025

• Dates: January 2026 – May 2026
• Format: Monthly 2-hour virtual workshops held via Zoom (Zoom link will be provided to participants before the session)
• Includes live facilitation, case studies, breakout discussions, and reflection prompts
• Participation: Limited to 50 participants per session, with 30% reserved for leadership roles
• Participants may register for single sessions or commit to at least 5 of 7 sessions as part of a learning cohort (with access to a Community of Practice and certificate of completion)
• Selection Process: Interested participants must submit an expression of interest to be considered for selection.

Cohort Registration: 

Regular Rate: $400

Trainee Discount: $200 with promo code ERACOH_TRAINEE

Individual Sessions Registration:

Regular Rate: $70 per session

Trainee Discount: Please reach out to Alex Suliman (alexandria.suliman@unityhealth.to) for Individual Session discounts.

Click here to apply to be a part of the Cohort.

Click her to apply for Individual Session registration.

Session 1: Critical Race Study in Research with Dr. Rai Reece
January 21, 2026 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST

This workshop will explore the principles of critical race study (CRS) and its application in research. Participants will examine how race intersects with systems of power and oppression, providing insights into racial disparities and social justice issues. The session will cover historical context, key concepts of CRS, and practical ways to integrate CRS into research methodologies to challenge and dismantle systemic racism.

Session 2: Intersectionality & Trauma-Informed Practice in Research with Snjezana Pruginic
February 12, 2026 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST

This workshop will introduce participants to the concept of intersectionality and the importance of trauma-informed practices in research. Attendees will learn to recognize and acknowledge the multiple, intersecting identities of research participants and researchers, and how these identities influence experiences and perspectives. The session will provide tools for applying a trauma-informed approach to research design and implementation, ensuring sensitive and inclusive practices.

Session 3: Inclusive Research Design with Dr. Notisha Massaquoi
March 5, 2026 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST

This workshop will focus on incorporating principles of diversity into research design. Participants will learn strategies to ensure the representation of diverse populations and perspectives, addressing power imbalances within the research process. Topics will include inclusive sampling methods, equitable data collection techniques, and considerations for analysis and interpretation to produce comprehensive and relevant findings for diverse communities.

Session 4: Culturally Responsive Research Practices with Dr. Penny Pasque
March 26, 2026 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST

In this workshop, participants will explore culturally responsive research practices that respect and reflect diverse cultural backgrounds. Attendees will gain insights into building trust and rapport with diverse communities and ensuring that research practices honor and integrate cultural contexts and values.

Session 5: Community-Based Participatory Research with Dr. Sarah Switzer & Dayan De Souza (CCBR)
April 16, 2026 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST

This workshop will delve into community-based participatory research (CBPR) methodologies. Participants will learn about collaborative approaches that involve community members or communities that experience marginalization. The session will highlight the importance of shared decision-making, co-creation of knowledge, and empowering communities to share their experiences and stories, ultimately leading to more impactful and relevant research outcomes.

Session 6: Unconscious Bias with Nicole Kaniki
May 7, 2026 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST

This workshop will explore how unconscious biases can influence various stages of the research process, including design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Participants will learn to identify and mitigate these biases to promote more equitable research practices. The session will include practical strategies and tools for recognizing and addressing unconscious biases, ensuring that research findings are unbiased and reflective of diverse populations.

Session 7: Spaces of Belonging: Tools for Creating Inclusive Research Environments with the Toronto Initiative for Diversity & Excellence (TIDE Toronto)
May TBD 2026 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST

This workshop will highlight EDIAR-related behaviors and challenges that significantly impact experiences of belonging in the research environment. The session will cover strategies for creating inclusive workspaces, fostering a sense of belonging among all team members, and addressing challenges that hinder inclusivity and equity in the research setting.