CANCDTGEN 014/23

Canadian Cadet General Order (CANCDTGEN)

CJCR Gp Adult and Cadet National Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Groups Initial Stand-up

References:

1. Canadian Human Rights Act
2. Defense Advisory Groups
3. Guide on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Terminology

1. The Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers Group (CJCR Gp) will stand-up two National Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Groups (NDIAGs) in fall 2023; the Adult NDIAG and the Cadet NDIAG. This initiative supports the intent of the Commander (Comd) CJCR Gp to better understand and equitably support CJCR Gp audiences, and to promote a healthy culture within the organization. CJCR Gp continuously strives to create a culture where all people feel welcomed, valued, respected, connected, and safe physically, psychologically, and emotionally, in an environment free from all forms of discrimination, abuse, inappropriate conduct, and damaging behaviour. CJCR Gp promotes an inclusive environment where all members may feel empowered to be their authentic selves.
2. The mandate of the CJCR Gp NDIAGs is to advise and provide insight to the Comd CJCR Gp, and senior leaders, on issues relevant to member groups to help inform decision making. Membership is modelled after the Defence Advisory Groups and include member advisors representing the following groups:
   1. 2SLGBTQI+;
   2. Indigenous Peoples;
   3. Women;
   4. Persons with Disabilities;
   5. Visible Minorities; and
   6. Youth (Select Cadet NDIAG members will engage with the Adult group).
3. Initial roles and responsibilities of the NDIAGs, which may adjust and/or expand over time, include:
   1. identifying systemic barriers to inclusion and diversity;
   2. identifying opportunities to promote and enhance inclusion and diversity;
   3. advising on policy, training, recruiting and retention;
   4. supporting awareness and understanding of issues and opportunities through connecting and consulting with individuals and groups. Examples include: CJCR Gp Headquarters staff, subject matter experts, and/or the National Advisory Council Cadet Organizations Administration and Training Service (NACC); and
   5. recommending solutions and reporting to the Comd CJCR Gp as required.
4. NDIAG members are committed to the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion and have a passionate interest in representing, and being a strong voice for, the group they represent. They volunteer to be active participants in the group and should possess the following skills, competencies, and experience:
   1. advanced communication skills;
   2. problem solving skills;
   3. leadership experience;
   4. confidence;
   5. empathy and compassion; and
   6. emotional intelligence.
5. The Adult NDIAG will be composed of ten members. Two member advisors will represent each of the groups identified in paragraph 2. Membership will reflect each of CJCR Gp adult audiences including:
   1. Canadian Armed Forces members: COATS members, Regular Forces, and Primary Reserve;
   2. Public Service Employees working full-time for CJCR Gp; and
   3. Civilian Instructors.
6. The Cadet NDIAG will be composed of 15 members, three cadets per Regional Cadet Support Unit (RCSU), with member advisors representing the groups outlined at paragraph 2.a-e. Membership will reflect cadets who:
   1. hold the minimum rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class/Sergeant; and
   2. have completed a Cadet Training Centre and/or Cadet Activity Program opportunity.
7. Formal meetings for each NDIAG will be conducted virtually two times per year. In addition, research work and follow-up meetings will require a few hours of each member’s time per month. It is expected that members, once selected, will remain active with the NDIAG for at least one year. Select members of the Cadet NDIAG will engage with the Adult NDIAG as required.
8. The initial NDIAG member nomination criteria and selection process will be outlined by Deputy Chief of Staff Strategic Plans (DCOS Strat Plans) for conduct at the RCSUs. Once approved by the RCSU Commanding Officer, regional nominations will be forwarded to DCOS Strat Plans for review. Selections will be submitted to Deputy Commander CJCR Gp for approval.
9. The leadership and management of the NDIAGs is the responsibility of the DCOS Strat Plans, with the CJCR Gp Headquarters Office of Primary Interest being the Professional Conduct and Culture Advisor. Questions concerning NDIAGs may be directed to DCOS Strat Plans through the Chain of Command.
10. Junior Canadian Rangers will not be participants in the initial NDIAGs. Details regarding the approach and any lessons learned will be shared with Director Canadian Rangers for their consideration.

Questions and Answers: CANCDTGEN 014/23, CJCR Gp Adult and Cadet National Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Groups Initial Stand-up