Equity Framework

The Equity Framework is an online resource that highlights:

• groups who face structural inequities;
• opportunities to focus on equity at the individual, program, community, and system levels;
• intentional practices of listening & learning, building relationships, being responsive, and taking action;
• a list of strategies to build capacity and advance equity-based work.

Social Locations

Levels of Action

Intentional Practices

Drivers for Change

Principles

The Equity Framework is composed of guiding questions and resources all informed by seven guiding principles: 

1. Systemic Focus: We are focused on removing systemic barriers within the child and family service system.
2. Collective Impact Approach: Working with organizations across the Network – not in silos – is required to address systemic inequities.
3. Targeted Universalism: Everyone benefits from targeted removal of systemic barriers. Reducing barriers and disparities will lead to a better Toronto for everyone.
4. Distinct and Intersectional: inequities are experienced differently across populations, and within them along intersectional lines.
5. Inclusive Process: people experiencing inequities must be meaningfully engaged and their perspectives inform decision-making
6. Transparent, evidence-based: Our approach is evidence-based and driven by measurable goals and outcomes that are tracked and publicly reported.
7. Sustainability: We are setting the foundation for long-term equity efforts.

Principles adapted from:

Province of Ontario. (2017). A Better Way Forward: Ontario’s 3-Year Anti-Racism Strategic Plan. Available from: https://files.ontario.ca/ar-2001_ard_report_tagged_final-s.pdf