MEMBERSHIP

Join the Movement: Building Community, Advancing Equity

The Halton Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Roundtable (HEDR) is proud to launch the
2025 Membership Program—an opportunity for individuals and organizations to deepen their commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) while accessing exclusive events, learning opportunities, and a powerful network of changemakers.

A Year of Meaningful Engagement

HEDR’s 2025 membership includes a rich calendar of events designed to educate,
inspire, and foster collaboration. Highlights include:

Diverse Abilities Symposium (April 30, 2025): A space to explore accessibility,
inclusion, and advocacy for diverse abilities.
HEDR Conference (June 6, 2025): A full-day gathering of thought leaders,
organizations, and community members dedicated to advancing EDI.
Truth & Reconciliation Event & Forum (September 2025): A crucial dialogue on Indigenous rights, history, and pathways to meaningful reconciliation.
Black History Month Lunch & Learn (February 2026): A deep dive into Black
history and its present-day implications.
Brave Spaces Program (February 2026): A four-week program culminating in aday-long session focused on fostering courageous conversations around EDI.

Membership Categories

Individual Members: Open to all individuals who support the roundtable's mission and want to contribute to advancing equity and diversity in Halton.
NPO Members: Open to non-profit organizations, government agencies, and educational institutions committed to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Enterprise Members: Open to local governments committed to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion
Associate Members: Open to organizations committed to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion outside the of the Halton Region.
Corporate Members: Businesses committed to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion.

HEDR is committed to ensuring that organizations and individuals, regardless of budget or resources, have the opportunity to participate in and contribute to equity-driven work. That’s why NPO/Individual Memberships are completely free, making it easier for grassroots advocates and small organizations to engage in the EDI space.

For nonprofit organizations (NPOs) looking for expanded access, we offer three membership tiers based on annual operating budgets:

Level 1 (Budget up to $250K) – Designed for smaller nonprofits, offering access to key events and learning opportunities at an affordable rate.
Level 2 (Budget $250K - $750K) – Provides additional event access and networking
opportunities for mid-sized nonprofits.
Level 3 (Budget $750K+) – Ideal for larger nonprofits looking to maximize their
engagement and organizational impact.

Membership Advantages

Joining the Halton Equity Diversity Roundtable (HEDR) membership association offers numerous advantages for individuals, organizations, and businesses committed to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion. Some of the key advantages include:

1. Networking Opportunities: HEDR provides a platform for members to connect with like-minded individuals, organizations, and businesses across diverse sectors. Networking within HEDR opens doors to new partnerships, collaborations, and potential synergies, fostering a stronger and more connected community.

2. Access to Resources and Expertise: As a member, individuals and organizations gain access to valuable resources, workshops, training sessions, and expert-led seminars. HEDR offers educational opportunities to deepen understanding and build capacity for creating inclusive environments.

3. Amplified Impact: By joining forces with other members, the impact of individual efforts is magnified. Collaborative initiatives and collective advocacy within HEDR have the potential to effect more significant changes in policies, practices, and attitudes related to diversity and inclusion.

4. Advocacy and Influence: HEDR actively engages in advocacy efforts to promote equitable policies and practices within the Halton region. As a member, individuals and organizations have the opportunity to influence decision-makers and contribute to positive changes that benefit the entire community.

5. Community Engagement: HEDR's membership association actively engages with local communities to identify and address their unique needs and challenges. Members can participate in community-driven projects and initiatives that create a meaningful impact at the grassroots level.

6. Learning and Professional Development: HEDR offers a supportive environment for continuous learning and professional growth. Members can attend workshops, webinars, and events that enhance their understanding of equity, diversity, and inclusion, equipping them with valuable knowledge and skills applicable in various contexts.

7. Credibility and Visibility: Being associated with HEDR demonstrates a commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion. This affiliation can enhance an individual's or organization's credibility within the community and attract potential partners, customers, or stakeholders who share similar values.

8. Access to Research and Data: HEDR conducts research and collects data related to equity and diversity issues in the Halton region. Members can benefit from evidence-based insights and use this data to inform their decision-making and interventions.

9. Inclusive Events and Activities: HEDR organizes inclusive events and activities that celebrate diversity and bring people from different backgrounds together. These events create opportunities for members to celebrate multiculturalism, share experiences, and strengthen relationships.

Joining the Halton Equity Diversity Roundtable Membership offers a host of advantages, ranging from professional development and networking opportunities to the chance to make a tangible difference in promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion within the Halton community.

Membership Criteria and Application Process

HEDR is committed to removing barriers that may prevent marginalized individuals and organizations from joining. Special consideration and support may be provided to ensure inclusivity and representation of diverse perspectives.

These eligibility criteria will ensure that individuals and organizations joining the Halton Equity Diversity Roundtable are aligned with its mission and contribute to creating a more equitable and inclusive Halton community.

Commitment to Equity and Diversity: Individuals who share a genuine commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion within the Halton community.
Residency or Affiliation: Individuals residing in or having a significant connection to the Halton region, who are interested in actively contributing to HEDR's initiatives.
Professional Background: Professionals from various sectors, including but not limited to education, business, healthcare, social services, government, and non-profit organizations.
Willingness to Collaborate: Individuals who are willing to actively engage in discussions, events, workshops, and collaborative projects organized by HEDR.
Respectful Conduct: Individuals who adhere to respectful and inclusive behavior in all interactions within the roundtable.

Dedication to Equity and Inclusion: Organizations committed to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion within their own operations and the Halton community.
Operational Presence: Organizations with a presence in the Halton region, including businesses, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, government agencies, and healthcare providers.
Leadership Support: Organizations with leadership that demonstrates a commitment to diversity and actively supports the organization's involvement in HEDR.
Collaborative Engagement: Organizations willing to actively participate in committees, task forces, and working groups to collaborate on initiatives aligned with HEDR's mission.
Alignment with Values: Organizations whose values and actions align with the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion as promoted by HEDR.
Code of Conduct Adherence: Organizations that agree to adhere to HEDR's code of conduct and promote respectful and inclusive behavior within the roundtable and the community.

Member Expectations

To maintain an atmosphere of respectful discussion and professionalism and respect the confidentiality of all matters brought to HEDR.
To actively contribute their expertise, resources, and individual experiences to further the goals of HEDR.
To bring forward issues and information regarding inclusion, access and diversity to HEDR.
To attend meetings regularly. Regular attendance is defined as a minimum of 3 meetings annually.
Complete a minimum of 20 hours of DEI Education and Training each year.

Diversity and Inclusivity Focus

At the Halton Equity Diversity Roundtable (HEDR), we are steadfast in our commitment to building a more inclusive, equitable, and diverse community in the Halton region. We believe that a thriving and harmonious society is one where every individual, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances, is valued, respected, and provided with equal opportunities to succeed.

Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is rooted in the understanding that these principles are not just words, but essential foundations for creating positive social change. We recognize that embracing diversity brings a wealth of perspectives, experiences, and ideas that enrich our collective understanding and drive innovation. Equity ensures that everyone has fair access to resources and opportunities, rectifying historical disadvantages. Inclusion fosters a sense of belonging and active participation, enabling each member of our community to contribute their unique strengths.

HEDR is dedicated to:

Embracing Diversity: We celebrate the richness of diversity in all its forms, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, age, ability, socioeconomic background, and sexual orientation. We seek to create an environment where differences are not only accepted but cherished.

Promoting Equity: We work tirelessly to identify and address systemic barriers that hinder the advancement of marginalized groups. Our goal is to level the playing field and empower individuals to achieve their full potential, irrespective of societal obstacles.

Fostering Inclusion: We are committed to creating a safe and welcoming space where every voice is heard and valued. We believe that true progress is achieved when everyone is included in the dialogue and decision-making process.

Through collaborative efforts, open dialogue, education, and action-oriented initiatives, we are dedicated to dismantling prejudices, challenging biases, and creating a community that is equitable, diverse, and inclusive for all. Our commitment extends beyond our organization's boundaries, influencing positive change throughout the Halton region.

Membership Application Process

Application Submission

For Individual Members

Fill out the online membership application form available on the HEDR website.
Provide personal information, contact details, professional background, and a brief statement about their commitment to equity and diversity.
Agree to adhere to HEDR's code of conduct and confirm their willingness to participate actively.

For Organizational Members

Download the organizational membership application form from the HEDR website.
Fill out the form with organization details, leadership contact information, a description of the organization's commitment to equity and diversity, and how they plan to contribute to HEDR's initiatives.
Attach relevant documents, such as a letter of commitment from the organization's leadership (moving from policy to action), organization profile, and any additional materials that highlight their commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Agree to adhere to HEDR's code of conduct and confirm the organization's willingness to actively participate and collaborate.

Review and Approval

For Individual Members

The membership coordinator or a designated committee reviews the individual membership applications.
Applications are evaluated based on alignment with eligibility criteria, commitment to equity and diversity, and willingness to actively participate.
Applicants will be notified via email about their membership status. Approved members will receive instructions on the next steps.

For Organizational Members

The membership committee reviews the organizational membership applications.
The review includes assessing the organization's commitment to equity and inclusion, relevance to HEDR's mission, and the potential contribution to the roundtable's initiatives.
Representatives of approved organizations will be contacted via email with further instructions.

Onboarding and Engagement

New members will receive a welcome package containing information about HEDR's upcoming events, initiatives, committees, and ways to get involved.
They will be invited to attend orientation sessions to learn more about the organization's structure, mission, and ongoing projects.
Members are encouraged to start participating in events, committees, and discussions right away to maximize their engagement with HEDR.