There’s a persistent need to deepen empathy within the planning profession and embrace meaningful inclusion. This session will highlight the contributions and significant challenges faced by planners from diverse cultural backgrounds across Canada. Through a comprehensive literature review and survey analysis, our study provides a nuanced view of racialized planners’ invaluable contributions, showing how they bring unique insights, innovation, and cultural perspectives that strengthen the field. At the same time, it delves into institutionalized inequities and workplace biases that can hinder full participation in decision-making, underscoring the need for equitable representation in leadership. Participants will gain firsthand insights into how systemic issues—such as institutionalized inequities and workplace biases—can foster environments lacking a sense of belonging and limit equal opportunity. Balancing an honest look at these barriers with a celebration of strengths, the discussion emphasizes the importance of inclusive mentorship and equitable professional development that elevate all voices.
