Tracy-Ann Johnson-Myers is the Faculty of Education's Equity, Diversity, Indigeneity, and Decolonization Coordinator. You can find out more about Tracy-Ann on the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Decolonization, Indigenization, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism page.
Can you explain what your role is as the EDID Coordinator at the Faculty of Education?
My role as the EDID Coordinator in the Faculty of Education is to promote a diverse, inclusive and equitable environment for work, learning and research within the faculty and the wider university community. In particular, I provide leadership and guidance on EDI-related issues across the faculty and work with instructors on EDI infusion within courses, including developing resources and making referrals to other services and training at CTL, HREO, etc.
What are some of your biggest goals with your work here?
There are several goals I am working towards, but three stand out as particularly crucial. The first is to instigate a cultural shift within the faculty by championing values and behaviours that actively embrace equity, diversity, and inclusion. Secondly, I am dedicated to formulating and championing inclusive policies that not only dismantle systemic barriers but also establish an environment where every individual, irrespective of background or identity, enjoys equal opportunities for success. This aligns with my goal of fostering a cultural shift towards EDI. Lastly, I am committed to striving for increased representation of underrepresented or equity-seeking groups across all levels of the faculty, including leadership roles. While acknowledging that these goals are overly ambitious and might extend beyond my lifetime or tenure within the Faculty, I hope to lay the groundwork for their eventual realization.
What brought you to Kingston?
I often joke that I followed my husband, but in reality, it's a convergence of two factors: a career move for my husband and a sense that the universe intended me to be in this particular space at this time. I relocated to Canada from Jamaica in 2021 and spent two years in Ottawa. When my husband assumed the role of Director of High-Performance Sports in Athletics and Recreation at Queen's University, it felt like the right move for our family. With over a decade of experience in academia and a body of research work including numerous articles and books on equity-related issues, I recognized an opportunity to make a meaningful impact when the position of EDI Coordinator became available in the faculty.
How do you and Alana Butler work together on EDID Initiatives at the Faculty?
Alana and I share a strong commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), striving to cultivate a culture of belonging and inclusivity within the faculty. Alana was among those who warmly welcomed me into the faculty, and her support has been unwavering. We both serve on the EDID Committee, and she generously provides guidance and support in accessing university-wide resources and creating EDI policies, procedures and resources for faculty and staff in the Faculty of Education.