The HEDR EDI Leadership Conference brings together industry leaders in driving thought-provoking and inspirational discussions on the theme of "Small Town, Big Ideas: Intersectional Paths to Equity in Urban and Rural Communities."
Date: June 3 & 4, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Georgetown, Ontario
Key Dates
Call for Abstracts: Dec 9, 2025
Call for Wellness & Discovery Sessions: Dec 9, 2025
Official Launch: Jan 21, 2026
Deadline for Abstract Submission: Feb 14, 2026
Notification of Abstract Acceptance: April 1, 2026
Why Attend
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Gain knowledge and insight from leading experts on EDI
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Be inspired by our keynotes and facilitators
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Network with influential leaders in the industry
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Influence and take part in seminal discussions on the establishment of sustainable EDI practices in the Halton Region
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Gain company recognition through face-to-face interaction with business leaders
WHO SHOULD Attend
Colleagues from all disciplines with a connection to EDI are encouraged to attend, including the following professions:
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Academics
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Activists
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Community Leaders
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Community Orgs.
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Funders
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Government
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Health Services
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Immigrant Services
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Media
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Police Services
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Policy Makers
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Local Businesses
CALL FOR ABSTRACTS
HEDR is now inviting presenters, facilitators, artists, researchers, and community leaders to contribute to Small Town, Big Ideas: Intersectional Paths to Equity in Urban and Rural Communities, a two-day gathering focused on innovation, storytelling, and place-based equity work.
This event will bring together voices from across sectors and communities to explore how identity, geography, and power intersect to shape people’s lived experiences. Whether you’re working in a rural township, a suburban neighbourhood, or a major city, we want to hear how your ideas and practices can inspire others and help build stronger, more inclusive communities.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking dynamic and engaging presentations that push the conversation forward and offer fresh perspectives on equity, inclusion, justice, accessibility, decolonization, and community transformation. Presenters are encouraged to think boldly and creatively—your session can take almost any form:
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A TED-style talk
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A film screening followed by facilitated discussion
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An experiential workshop
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A lecture or research-based presentation
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A community forum or conversation circle
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An arts-based or storytelling workshop
If your idea sparks learning, challenges assumptions, or opens new possibilities, it belongs here.
CALL FOR WELLNESS & DISCOVERY SESSIONS
We are excited to invite facilitators, creators, and organizations to submit proposals for Wellness and Discovery Sessions at our upcoming conference. We are seeking innovative, engaging, and equity-centered experiences that inspire reflection, build community, and elevate learning for our members.
What We're Looking For
We welcome proposals for:
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DEI-Focused Programming: Sessions that highlight intersectional approaches, emerging trends, and transformative practices in equity, diversity, and inclusion.
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Wellness Experiences: Activities that support personal and collective well-being—such as mindfulness, movement, art-based engagement, storytelling, cultural healing practices, or restorative sessions that complement the conference theme.
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Discovery Sessions: Interactive, hands-on opportunities that spark curiosity, skill-building, and meaningful conversations rooted in community and connection.
Who Can Apply
We encourage submissions from both non-profit and for-profit organizations, independent facilitators, and small businesses working in the DEI, wellness, community engagement, and social impact spaces. We are committed to showcasing diverse voices and expertise from across urban and rural communities.
Ethical & DEI-Centered Vendor Selection
Our vendor selection process is grounded in the principles of equity, transparency, and community accountability. We prioritize:
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Representation from equity-deserving groups
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Cultural safety and trauma-informed practices
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Ethical, community-centered approaches
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Inclusive design and accessibility
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Fair evaluation based on clear criteria—not on organizational size, budget, or popularity
All proposals will be reviewed through an intersectional DEI lens to ensure that selected vendors align with our values and contribute meaningfully to a welcoming, inclusive conference environment.
Submit your proposal by February 14, 2026, to events@hedroundtable.com.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY
We are inviting community partners, businesses, and organizations to sponsor the upcoming IDEA Leadership Conference.
Your support will help create an impactful space for learning, reflection, and meaningful dialogue with Indigenous leaders and community members.
Together, we can advance reconciliation efforts and foster a stronger, more inclusive Halton.
Become a sponsor today!
For more information, please get in touch at events@hedroundtable.com
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