Brandon University is pleased to announce the launch of the Isms Fact Sheets, a new research-informed resource designed to help students, faculty, and staff recognize, respond to, and address discrimination, microaggressions, and systemic inequities within university spaces.
Developed through a Faculty of Health Studies-led research initiative, the Isms Fact Sheets translate lived experience, institutional knowledge, and equity research into accessible, practical tools. The Fact Sheets outline what different forms of "isms" can look like in everyday academic and professional contexts, and provide clear guidance for those experiencing, witnessing, or seeking to interrupt harmful behaviour.
The research was led by the Faculty of Health Studies Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, with written contributions from Cheryl Fleming, Princess Eze, Divina Suazo, and Dr. Candice Waddell-Henowitch. Design work was completed by Jeremy Carter.
The project was supported financially by the BU Anti-Racism Committee, Centre for Teaching and Learning, Brandon University Students' Union (BUSU), Faculty of Health Studies, and the Brandon University Centre for Applied Research and Education in Indigenous, Rural, and Remote Settings (BU CARES).
The launch event featured a panel discussion welcoming students, faculty, and staff into conversation about the purpose and future of the Fact Sheets. The panel was moderated by Dr. Gustavo Moura (BU CARES) and included Akech Mayuom (BScPN. '22, and MPN Student), Rebecca Jimoh (BUSU Health Studies Representative), Esperanza Nneoma Anyachukwu (BUSU Racialized Representative), and Cheryl Fleming (BU Diversity and Human Rights Advisor).
Dr. Moura emphasized the importance of creating shared understanding and collective responsibility across diverse learning environments.
"These conversations matter because students don't leave these experiences at the classroom door," said Dr. Moura. "Whether in labs, healthcare placements, schools, or community settings, we have a responsibility to support students as whole people and to value the traditions, histories, and identities they bring with them."
The Isms Fact Sheets are designed not only as educational tools, but as instruments for validation and action. Cheryl Fleming highlighted the need for institutions to move beyond awareness toward accountability.
"Institutions play a role in reinforcing systems of discrimination; but they also play a role in dismantling them," said Fleming. "This work requires measurable accountability, clear reporting structures, and a commitment to listening to understand, not to respond. These Fact Sheets are a starting point for doing that work more responsibly and more humanely."
Princess Eze, an undergraduate nursing student and one of the Research Assistants on the project, brought the student perspective into focus.
"This work reflects conversations that students have been having quietly for a long time," said Princess Eze. "The Isms Fact Sheets help validate those experiences and give students language and tools to respond, whether they're experiencing harm themselves or witnessing it happen to others."
Dr. Candice Waddell-Henowitch, a contributing author and member of the Faculty of Health Studies EDI Committee, underscored the research-driven intent behind the project.
"This initiative emerged directly from research, student testimony, and community engagement," said Dr. Waddell-Henowitch. "The Isms Fact Sheets reflect what happens when institutions take lived experience seriously and commit to transforming that knowledge into practical, accessible supports."
Dr. Bernadette Ardelli, Vice-President (Research & Graduate Studies), framed the project within Brandon University's broader research and equity commitments.
"Research has a responsibility to serve people," said Dr. Ardelli. "The Isms Fact Sheets demonstrate how equity-focused research can lead to tangible, campus-wide impact, supporting safer, more inclusive learning and working environments while advancing meaningful institutional change."
The Isms Fact Sheets are publicly available and intended for use by students, faculty, staff, and community members. They form part of Brandon University's ongoing efforts to foster equity, accountability, and respectful engagement across all areas of the institution.
To access the Isms Fact Sheets, visit: https://www.busu.ca/anti-isms
