AT THE ROOT

Women and gender-diverse students deserve to learn, work and thrive in their careers. However, they are at a high risk of being subjected to sexual violence or harassment when they pursue science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) professions. 

When academic or work environments go unchecked, the impact on survivor well-being is significant. In cases where students are unable to complete their studies, feel unsafe at work, or leave their future occupations, there are losses for employers and the Canadian economy in recruitment and retention, productivity, innovation and growth.

We are working to change this through safer and more inclusive STEM co-ops, internships and other experiential learning opportunities.

Our flagship initiative

At the Root scales our national research-to-action project for employers, administrators and students engaged in STEM experiential learning. At the Root focuses on:

  • Creating and adapting evidence-based resources to meet the specific needs of STEM programs, workplaces, campuses and communities.

  • Developing practical training for post-secondary staff, administrators, career centres, employers and experiential students across six provinces (Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island). 

  • Scaling efforts to introduce and amend policies and legislation based on research and stakeholder input.

At the Root is funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada.