At AndHumanity, we know that representation isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a catalyst for real change, both in media and in the classroom. As Canadian post-secondary institutions welcome increasingly diverse student bodies, the lack of diversity among faculty remains a pressing issue. When students see themselves reflected in their educators, it fosters a sense of belonging and can dramatically improve academic outcomes.

As per the statistics below, if you’re an underrepresented student attending a Canadian post-secondary institution, there’s a high likelihood that the faculty that teaches you, will not share your lived experience:

➡️ Although the majority of post-secondary students are women, women only make up 44% of the teaching staff

➡️ Only 21% of full-time faculty are non-white

➡️ Indigenous people are significantly underrepresented, comprising only 1% of full-time faculty

➡️ Only 8% self-identify under the 2SLGBTQIA+ community

➡️ And of the over 70,000 professors identifying as a visible minority, less than 10% are Black

Additionally…

➡️ Dropout rates and performance gaps between white and underrepresented students decrease *significantly* (by 20%!) in classes taught by underrepresented minority faculty.

The numbers are clear; representation in higher education isn’t just about fairness – it’s about unlocking student potential, closing achievement gaps, and building a stronger, more innovative future for all. Addressing the systemic barriers that cause these distressing numbers will not only improve the diversity and quality of teaching at Canadian post-secondary institutions, but will also lead to better success and retention of underrepresented students.

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