York University's commitment to advance social justice, decolonizing, equity, diversity and inclusion across its campuses has once again been recognized by a leading national agency.
Earning a spot for the second consecutive year on the list puts York U among the top organizations across Canada making positive change.
The initiative is part of the Canada's Top 100 Employers project and evaluates workplace diversity and inclusiveness programs.
During the review process, adjudicators compared York's efforts - including everything from programs for underrepresented groups to institutional strategy - to those of other post-secondary institutions.
Among the reasons York was cited as a Best Diversity Employer again was the development of its Decolonizing, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy 2023-28, its inclusion-oriented recruitment processes and the customized training sessions provided by the Centre for Human Rights, Equity and Inclusion.
"We are deeply honoured to be recognized as one of Canada's Best Diversity Employers for the second year in a row. Diversity is a cornerstone of York's identity and always has been. Our enduring commitment to social justice, decolonization and equity distinguishes us from other universities," says Laina Bay-Cheng, vice-president equity, people and culture at York University. "This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of York's students, staff and faculty to make our University a place where diverse people, ideas and paths are valued and supported."
The back-to-back recognition builds on York's ongoing efforts as a progressive university dedicated to a culture of equity and social justice.
Notably, the institution continues to advance efforts to formalize and embed those values across campuses with the DEDI strategy, the Framework and Action Plan on Black Inclusion and the Indigenous Framework. An embrace of diversity and commitment to equity are also interwoven through the University's Well-being and Sustainability Strategies.
The 2025 Best Diversity Employers announcement follows a recent recognition of York's leadership to demonstrate impact around reducing inequalities - United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 10 (SDG 10).
In the 2024 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, York placed first in Canada and 33rd globally in SDG 10. Earlier this year, York was named the United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) Hub Chair for Sustainable Development Goal 10 - Reducing Inequality for a three-year term.
"These recognitions help fuel us to continue driving forward with our initiatives in decolonizing, equity, diversity and inclusion. We can use this momentum to progress toward our goals broadening and deepening our support for York's diverse community," says Bay-Cheng. "We will keep pushing forward to make York University a place where everyone can thrive."
This story was originally featured in YFile, York University's community newsletter.
