I.D.E.A. of Belonging
At the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia, we believe everyone affected by dementia has the right to live their life the way they want to live it, whether they’re living with the diagnosis or supporting someone who is.
In the spring of 2021, we shared a statement of intention on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. At the heart of that statement was the understanding that dementia does NOT discriminate. The Society must ensure that we’re here to support ALL Nova Scotians on the dementia journey and that each person who engages with us feels a sense of belonging with the Society. Our 2021 statement shared our beliefs, and our commitments in moving that work forward.
We’re pleased to provide an update as we move forward. We’ve changed the way we speak about diversity and inclusion, and now use a new acronym: I.D.E.A – Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility. The I.D.E.A. of belonging.
At the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia, we believe everyone affected by dementia has the right to live their life the way they want to live it, whether they’re living with the diagnosis or supporting someone who is. Core to that belief is that everyone has the right to be the person they are; to live without fear or prejudice regardless of race, age, gender, sexual orientation, faith and belief, or a disability, like dementia. Everyone should have the opportunity to contribute to society in the way that feels right for them. We all have the right to live in a world which demonstrates respect, values diversity and works towards true inclusion for all.
We’re happy to share with you some of the key things we’ve done to move the I.D.E.A. of Belonging forward:
- Created a new full time staff position to work directly with African Nova Scotians to engage the communities and provide culturally relevant services.
- Developed culturally relevant materials for the African Nova Scotian community.
- Held education sessions for the Arabic community through community partners ISANS and Veith House.
- Invested in ongoing I.D.E.A. training for our staff team.
- Started collecting demographic data from our clients to better serve them.
- Became a CCDI Employer Partner and integrated I.D.E.A. into HR processes.
- Implemented a policy of including Indigenous land acknowledgements in all of our events and presentations.
- Developed culturally relevant materials about dementia for Indigenous communities.
- Invited to the Atlantic First Nations Skills Sessions to provide materials and connect with Indigenous healthcare workers.
- Participated in Pride events throughout Nova Scotia
We’ll continue to share updates on this page as we progress this work and will remain accountable to our commitments.
Below are links to additional webpages with information and resources specific to our Community Partners across Nova Scotia.
