The McMaster University Department of Kinesiology values equity, diversity, and inclusivity in our research, teaching, and community engagement. We acknowledge that we have historically fallen short in implementing these core values and that much work is needed.
It is no longer enough to reject past ideologies, but rather we must unlearn them while actively transforming our thinking, feeling, and actions to orchestrate meaningful changes to our Departmental operations in service to all constituents and stakeholders.
We aspire to be leaders in societal health, well-being, and creating a Brighter World where all are treated equitably. Diversity plays a vital role in building this future through enhanced curiosity and innovation for scientific, educational, and organizational excellence.
As a Department and individuals, we are committed to being active change agents, alongside our community to be a constant force for inclusive success. We pledge to critically analyze and address inequities and barriers, promote transparent communication and consultation, and strive toward a better future for all.
Our Terms of Reference will highlight the steps we are taking for our ongoing public commitment to action.
Coming Soon – Awaiting Final Approval
The Department of Kinesiology is proud to introduce the KINclusive Indigeneity–Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (I‑EDIA) Graduate Award. This annual one‑time $5,000 scholarship supports a graduate student who demonstrates academic excellence and self‑identifies as a member of an equity‑deserving group, in alignment with McMaster’s Access Program criteria.
In 2021, the Department formed an Indigeneity and Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility (I-EDIA) Committee, currently chaired by Dr. Baraa Al-Khazraji. The committee provides leadership in advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility across all Departmental activities. Its key responsibilities include developing and maintaining the Department’s I-EDIA Terms of Reference in alignment with McMaster University principles, consolidating undergraduate and graduate I-EDIA initiatives under the KINclusive I-EDIA framework, and promoting scholarships, awards, and opportunities that advance I-EDIA goals.
The Kinesiology Society has undertaken a wide range of student‑led EDI initiatives over the years, contributing meaningfully to equity, cultural inclusion, wellness, and community awareness within the department
To benchmark progress in equity, diversity, inclusion, Indigeneity, and accessibility within the Department, an I‑EDIA review of undergraduate courses was conducted by two Program Support Assistants hired in 2022–2023. These student reviewers assessed course materials from a learner‑focused I‑EDIA perspective, identified areas for improvement, and provided instructors with actionable feedback. Several courses underwent this evaluation, and instructors received tailored recommendations to enhance inclusivity and accessibility in curriculum design and delivery. To support ongoing improvement, the reviewers developed an I‑EDIA Course Review Checklist, which was shared with all instructors in May 2023 as a self‑assessment tool for continual monitoring and refinement of course practices.
The Department of Kinesiology’s Community Outreach Program delivers free, interactive science workshops to high‑priority elementary schools, partnering with equity‑deserving and underserved communities to expand access to science education and introduce students to kinesiology as an inclusive field. Through hands‑on activities in neuroscience, exercise physiology, motor control, and biomechanics, the workshops provide engaging, low‑barrier opportunities to explore scientific concepts, led by Kinesiology students and instructors who serve as positive role models in supportive classroom environments.
One of the most recent initiatives is MacPLAY, a community-engaged program that fosters inclusive physical literacy opportunities for children and youth experiencing disabilities, particularly those facing intersecting barriers related to newcomer status and socioeconomic disadvantage. The program is offered free of charge and is currently supported by Canadian Tire Jumpstart funding.