Advancing Equity in Genetics and Genomics in Canada (AEG2C) Symposium Report Summary

In November 2022, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research Institute of Genetics (CIHR-IG) and the McGill CERC in Genomic Medicine, in partnership with Genome Canada and Genome Québec, organized an international two-day online symposium on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in Genomics entitled: "Advancing Equity in Genetics and Genomics in Canada (AEG2C Symposium)".

The inclusion of diverse populations in genetic and genomic studies is a scientific and clinical imperative. In recent years, resounding global calls have prompted a profound reflection on the barriers, challenges, and opportunities related to this goal, sparking renewed discussions about equity, diversity, and inclusion of best practices. To launch this discussion and convene diverse groups, the AEG2C Symposium was held to promote our understanding of health equity and share approaches to make the genomic research enterprise diverse, inclusive, and beneficial to all.

Over the two-day Symposium, 309 participants joined from 23 countries. The overarching theme of the Symposium was to create a space to foster exchanges between diverse groups and other representatives of the genetics and genomics community in Canada and internationally.

• On Day 1, participants focused on raising awareness about past and current diversity gaps, as well as the value of diversity and inclusion best practices for advancing genomic health equity. Canadian and international experts reflected on lessons learned from international research initiatives.
• On Day 2, participants focused on understanding the best practices and challenges underlying an equitable, diverse, and inclusive research enterprise. Studies successfully partnering with diverse populations in Canada, as well as policy and funding opportunity development in Canada were presented.

The AEG2C symposium highlighted the importance and value of inclusion and diversity in genomics to advance our understanding of disease mechanisms and promote health equity. Members of the genetic and genomic community shared best practices for building a research enterprise that is diverse, inclusive, and beneficial to all, emphasizing that equitable approaches lead to better health outcomes. Lessons learned from international initiatives and Canadian studies were showcased, highlighting the need to engage diverse populations, seek input from multiple perspectives, and tailor policies and strategies to individual needs.

What's Next?

Building on the success and learnings inspired by this first edition, a second AEG2C symposium will be held on October 19-20, 2026. More information will be shared in the coming months. Stay tuned!

Date modified:

2026-01-09