The Faculty of Mathematics Equity Office supports and amplifies the work of colleagues within the Faculty of Mathematics that advance our collective commitment to our Equity and Inclusive Communities Principles. Some of the many initiatives we support include:
Pride Factors
Pride Factors was founded in April 2024 to identify and reduce barriers for underrepresented sexual orientations and gender identities in mathematics at the University of À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ, including, but not limited to two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual people.
For more information on how to connect with Pride Factors, please email pride.factors@uwaterloo.ca.
Problems with Purpose—Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing
is a collection of mathematical problems to be used for students in grades 4 to 12. Each problem is meant to highlight the connection between mathematics and our collective responsibility to present and future generations. These problems can be used by parents, teachers and guardians to introduce various mathematical concepts to students with a connection to the world around us.
A photo taken in the Grand River watershed, by Judith Koeller
Queer Film Series
The Queer Film Series (QFS) strives to build community amongst 2SLGBTQIA+ faculty, staff, and students (and their allies!) through the critical exploration of diverse queer experiences portrayed in film. The QFS series offers an inclusive environment to discuss these experiences, challenge stereotypes and misconceptions, and appreciate the many facets of queer culture. Past participants have expressed appreciation for the opportunity to come together, celebrate diverse stories, and engage in an educational experience that explores the nuances of gender and sexuality. Each monthly screening opens with a short lecture to provide background and context to the film. After each screening, attendees are welcome to stay and reflect on the film and engage in a discussion of the film’s contributions to queer culture and/or how the film connects with their own personal experience. The QFS is coordinated by the Mathematics Equity Office, in partnership with Pride Factors and the support of EngiQueers.
Important Note: Screenings are only open to University of À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ students and employees and registration is required. Please see the Math Events site for details on upcoming screenings.
Women in Mathematics (WiM)
The Women in Mathematics (WiM) committee exists to encourage and advocate for women and gender minorities who are interested in studying mathematics and who seek careers in mathematics. The committee engages with cultural and institutional reasons for under-representation, and strives for all genders to be well-represented in mathematics.
Women in Computer Science (WiCS)
is dedicated to promoting gender equity in computing by advocating for and supporting women, trans, gender-fluid, gender-queer, and non-binary students enrolled in computer science and related computing programs at the University of À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ. Specifically, WiCS initiatives and events foster community, empowerment, and mentorship:
- to ensure that young women+ see computer science as an option in their studies and their careers
- to create an inclusive learning and working environment in the School of Computer Science
- to connect with other organizations and initiatives for women+ in computing
