CANCDTGEN 014/23 - Questions and Answers

What are National Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Groups?

Beginning in the fall of 2023, the Cadets and Junior Canadian Rangers Group (CJCR Gp) will stand-up two National Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Groups (NDIAGs); the Adult NDIAG and the Cadet NDIAG.

NDIAGs membership is modeled after Defence Advisory Groups (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).

What will the groups do?

The mandate of the NDIAGs is to advise and provide insight to the Commander (Comd) CJCR Gp, and senior leaders, on issues relevant to member groups to help inform decision making. Members will be expected to work together to:

1. identify systemic barriers to inclusion and diversity;
2. identify opportunities to promote and enhance inclusion and diversity;
3. review and advise on policy, training, recruiting and retention;
4. support awareness and understanding of issues and opportunities through connecting and consulting with personnel groups, such as CJCR Gp Headquarters (HQ) staff, subject matter experts, or the National Advisory Council Cadet Organizations Administration and Training Service (NACC); and
5. recommend solutions and report to the Comd CJCR Gp as required.

Formal meetings for each NDIAG will be conducted virtually two times per year and members should anticipate spending a few hours per month engaged in research work and meetings. It is expected that the members would be in the role for at least one year.

How many members are there and what are the qualifications to become a member?

The Adult NDIAG will consist of 10 members; with two member advisors representing each of the five groups. Select Cadet NDIAG members will engage with the Adult group to represent the Youth voice. The Cadet NDIAG will be comprised of 15 members, three members from each Regional Cadet Support Unit (RCSU), with advisors representing the member groups.

NDIAG members are committed to the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion. They have a passionate interest in representing, and advocating 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 skills;
4. confidence;
5. empathy and compassion; and
6. emotional intelligence.

Adult NDIAG membership will reflect all CJCR Gp adult audiences: Canadian Armed Forces members (COATS, Regular Force, and Primary Reserve), Public Service Employees working full time within CJCR Gp and Civilian Instructors.

Cadet NDIAG 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.

How are members selected?

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.

Once the NDIAGs are stood-up, members will discuss such items as selection process and roles and responsibilities and provide feedback on effectiveness and advice on next steps.

Why are we standing up these NDIAGS now?

This initiative supports the intent of the Comd CJCR Gp to better understand and equitably support CJCR Gp audiences and to promote a healthy culture within the organization. The 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. We promote an inclusive environment where all members may feel empowered to be their authentic selves.

How can I learn more about the NDIAGS and their work/outputs?

Information and updates regarding the NDIAGs will be provided via CJCR Gp social media channels and your Chain of Command.

Will there be Regional DIAGs?

Although no plans exist for this currently, CJCR Gp is excited to see the impact and outcomes of the NDIAGs and remains open to possible evolution and next steps for expansion.