Equity and Inclusivity in Canadian Astronomy

The Canadian Astronomical Society/Societe Canadienne d’Astronomie (CASCA) is the organization of professional astronomy in Canada. In 2015, CASCA created an Equity and Inclusivity Committee, with a mandate to collect data, track progress, propose initiatives and promote equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). The committee has now been active for several years and has recently completed the first climate survey of its members. The climate survey in particular highlighted the difference experiences of those identifying as women and men within the astronomical community. Attempts to revive demographics studies of the society have been met with several challenges, recognizing today the need for individuals to self-identify. We describe as well the planned emphasis on EDI within Canadian astronomy’s next decadal style survey. Finally, we note initiatives of Canada’s funding agency for astronomy, NSERC, and individual initiatives that have been undertaken. EDI is a priority for CASCA, and there is a lot of motivation and lots of ideas for improvement. Solutions will take time, cooperation and money to implement.