OPPI statement of action on DEI-RSJ

OUR PATH FORWARD

OPPI has a few large projects underway, which we are calling our Path Forward initiatives, that will set the foundation, or path, for OPPI to move forward in priority areas.

One of our Path Forward initiatives is called Leadership in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Reconciliation, and Social Justice (DEI-RSJ). The goal of this initiative is to reflect on OPPI's continuing work in this area, as well as lessons learned. Since September 2024, OPPI Council and the staff leadership team have been working with Decanthropy, an equity-driven consulting firm, to better understand organizational opportunities, challenges, and responsibilities when it comes to DEI-RSJ.

OPPI Council recently approved a statement of action and supporting strategy, which was a culmination of eight months of work that included facilitated workshops with Council and staff, as well as conversations with a number of OPPI members. Staff will be working to weave the strategy into a multi-year operational and implementation plan. We're pleased to share our statement of action with the membership.

OUR STATEMENT OF ACTION Indigenous Peoples, rights-holding communities, and individuals who identify as members of one or more equity-deserving groups have long experienced systemic barriers within the planning profession and the environments it influences. As Ontario’s professional planning regulator, OPPI recognizes its responsibility to drive meaningful change.  OPPI has developed a strategic framework grounded in diversity, equity, inclusion, reconciliation and social justice (DEI-RSJ). This framework will guide our work across all operations and relationships, recognizing that equity and reconciliation are to be addressed distinctly and intentionally. To foster meaningful engagement, OPPI seeks to collaborate with all our members and those impacted by planning through reciprocal relationships rooted in respect and knowledge-sharing. OPPI will prioritize sustained relationship-building with staff contacts and culturally informed approaches that reflect community needs. Engagement efforts will emphasize partnership, not just outreach. OPPI is committed to supporting future planners through educational partnerships and programs with K-12 schools, colleges, and universities. We will offer scholarships, bursaries, and mentorships to support Candidate members on their journey to becoming RPPs. Our approach will focus on creating diverse, accessible pathways into the profession. In alignment with calls for self-determination for rights-holding communities, OPPI, as an ally, supports the development of an Indigenous-led, independent oversight body to improve and evaluate consultation processes. As an organization, we cannot lead this effort. However, we recognize that our role as a regulator involves supporting advocacy. We will seek to work collaboratively with Indigenous Nations, government, and other partners to support equity at appropriate jurisdictional levels. Transparency and accountability will be essential for maintaining these commitments. OPPI will establish culturally relevant mechanisms to track progress, promote learning, and enable adaptation. Additionally, we will explore alternatives to traditional advisory council models by committing to a collaborative peer-to-peer model to foster safe spaces for knowledge sharing based on inclusive principles.  By acknowledging the truth of past harms, committing to learning, and centering the needs of our members and those impacted by planning, OPPI aims to contribute to a more inclusive, accountable, and equitable professional planning practice.

Our commitment to DEI-RSJ is embedded in our strategic priorities, guiding our policies, professional standards, and educational programs. We are dedicated to supporting members in developing the skills and cultural competencies that help them navigate challenges, connect with communities, and drive meaningful change in their day-to-day planning work.