What about Meritocracy? Navigating the EDI debate
April 1, 2025
12:00 - 1:00 pm
Online

Beyond the buzzwords: A candid look at merit and inclusion in the workplace
Tensions around equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) training and initiatives are rising amid global political shifts. Some organizations are stepping away from these efforts, while others are simply rebranding their work. But what’s really at the heart of these concerns? Should businesses abandon EDI or stay the course?
At the centre of this debate is what feels like a UFC-style showdown between EDI advocates and those championing meritocracy. But do these two approaches really need to be in the ring at all?
Join us for a thoughtful, evidence-based discussion that cuts through the noise.
In this webinar, we’ll unpack the facts, challenge assumptions, and explore whether meritocracy and EDI truly need to be at odds. You’ll gain:
- A research-backed look at how EDI efforts can enhance organizational performance and creativity. Does it actually work?
- A clearer understanding of meritocracy, letting you decide if it merits the weight we give it in our communities and businesses.
- Real-world insights from over 20 years of consulting experience, clarifying what works and what doesn’t in both merit-based systems and inclusion efforts.
- Practical strategies for navigating EDI discussions in your organizations, especially as conversations shift and resistance grows.
This isn’t another unconscious bias training. It won’t be politically polarizing. No sides need to be taken—just facts, data, and real-world lessons.
Speaker bio
Erin Waugh, Partnership and Inclusion Lead
Colbourne Institute for Inclusive Leadership
Erin (he/him) holds a master’s in Educational Psychology and a Diversity and Inclusion certificate from Cornell University. Since 2009, he has worked with organizations to create inclusive cultures for newcomer employees.
With experience in the energy, construction, utilities, engineering, and finance sectors, as well as post-secondary institutions, municipalities, non-profits, and school divisions, Erin helps build equitable, inclusive communities. He is also a qualified administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory, measuring cultural competence in workplaces. Recently, as project director for Autism CanTech! and IndTech, Erin contributed to award-winning initiatives supporting equity-seeking groups.
He specializes in tailoring strategic and training solutions to client needs and is passionate about fostering belonging and equity within organizations. Through his work, Erin aims to inspire lasting change and build stronger, more inclusive communities.
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