Description

The Equity and Advocacy Committee is a standing committee of the SEOCHC Board of Directors. The Committee supports the Board by further reflecting on current issues, strategies, and initiatives related to human rights, equality and advocacy that may have an impact on Centre. The Committee provides guidance on advocacy initiatives and communications to support the Centre in its operations and efforts to promote diversity, health equity and social inclusion.
TERMS OF REFERENCE
Consistent with the Centre’s Mission Statement and the Board’s priorities, the Committee’s responsibilities are to:
1.Ensure that the Board has the necessary support and advice that reflects community needs/interests to enable it to make difficult decisions regarding the course of the Centre’s commitments.
2.Explore equity and advocacy initiatives that are important for the core communities that the Centre serves.
3.Provides advice with an equity lens on the development of advocacy plans and strategies, inclusive policies and practices that support inclusive environments for staff, clients, volunteers and communities.
4.Discuss new and emerging issues, opportunities, trends and changes that may have significant impact on Centre operations.
5.Ensure that communication strategies are key in all committee deliberations.
6.Receive updates about the Centre in order to provide feedback for Board advocacy.
MEMBERSHIP
The Committee is comprised of a minimum of 2 members of the SEOCHC Board of Directors, a minimum of 2 senior staff, a minimum of 3 community members representing SEOCHC service areas. There will be a maximum of 12 members. The Executive Director is an ex-officio member. The Chair must be a member of the Board.
The Committee may establish ad hoc working groups to assist it with specific tasks when needed.
REPORTING
The Committee reports to the Board after each meeting of the Committee.
DECISION MAKING
Whenever possible, decision making will be by consensus. Quorum will be 50% +1, including at least one Board Member, 1 Senior Staff Member and 1 Community Member. The count for quorum includes all Committee members present. If a vote is necessary, the outcome will be determined by a simple majority of members present at the meeting. Board members, community members, staff and the Executive Director are voting members.
FREQUENCY OF MEETINGS
The Committee will meet a minimum of four (4) times each year, with additional meetings as required.
TERM
Members are appointed for a one-year term renewable each year with a maximum of three years.