As part of the True Colours Quilt Along 2025, CQA/ACC is collecting material for quilters who wish to learn more about the challenges faced by all marginalized people and how we can all help to make welcoming and safe spaces for everyone. CQA/ACC invites you to suggest website links to add to our resources by emailing your ideas to membership@canadianquilter.com.
What is DEI? Where can I find more information about it? What does DEI mean in the quilting community?
The Government of Canada Guide on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Terminology defines the DEI terms as follows:
- Diversity – The variety of identities found within an organization, group or society. (Note: Diversity is expressed through factors such as culture, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, language, education, ability, family status or socio economic status.)
- Equity – The principle of considering people’s unique experiences and differing situations, and ensuring they have access to the resources and opportunities that are necessary for them to attain just outcomes.
- Inclusion – The practice of using proactive measures to create an environment where people feel welcomed, respected and valued, and to foster a sense of belonging and engagement.
DEI concepts may not be easy to understand. The words have their own meanings as described above, however, there is more to DEI then definitions. DEI also requires discussion around accessibility, discrimination, ageism, harassment, bias, privilege, and social justice. And discussion must be followed by actions to ensure communities provide a sense of welcoming, belonging, openness, appreciation, and safety.
What does DEI mean in the quilting community?
For some quilters, conversations about DEI are new experiences for them, while others are very passionate about it. Whether you’re at a workshop or guild event, at a national conference like Quilt Canada, or simply speaking with quilting friends, DEI plays a role in making those activities safe and welcoming environments for people.
In order for guilds and quilting organizations to grow and be successful, it is vital to build more diverse memberships and attract new participants, including youth. People join groups and activities where they see themselves reflected. And they stay, because they feel included, engaged, and able to participate fully.
CQA/ACC is an advocate for DEI and has recently posted two milestone statements on our website:
- Statement of Reconciliation (located at the bottom of each webpage)
- Inclusivity Statement
CQA/ACC, as an organization, will continue to learn and apply DEI concepts at board meetings, in our communications (social media, newsletters, publications), webinars, and events such as Quilt Canada. CQA/ACC would like to be seen as welcoming and inclusive, as the creator of safe and welcoming environments for everyone. We may not be there yet, but it’s a learning curve we are committed to. As it states on the website, CQA/ACC will strive to become a more equitable and inclusive organization.
There are many references available on DEI. Below is a small sampling:
