Misconceptions About DEI and How to Measure Success in Equity Work.

Saroo Sharda

MD

Associate Dean of Equity and Inclusion, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University

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Marc Swiontkowski

MD, FAOA

Professor, University of Minnesota

Mohit Bhandari

FRCSC, PhD

Distinguished University Professor, Chair of Surgery, McMaster University

Equity leader and anesthesiologist Saru Sharda reflects on how creative writing and narrative practice shaped her approach to justice-oriented work in medicine. She describes how lived experiences of racism, academic training in sociology, and narrative methods informed her understanding of power, hierarchy, and systems of oppression. She addresses misconceptions about EDI, emphasizing that inequities stem from structural forces, not individual virtue, and argues for “calling in” through curiosity rather than confrontation alone. Sharda highlights growing evidence on health disparities, the need for ethical race-based data collection, and the importance of diverse leadership that shares power. Looking ahead, she sees 2024 defined by global crises, the necessity of compassionate dialogue, and accountability coupled with belief in people’s capacity to transform.