Anti-Discrimination, Equity & Inclusion Policy

Effective Date: 

March 31, 2026

Purpose

ALK Positive Canada (APC) is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable environment for patients, caregivers, volunteers, partners, and staff. As a national patient-focused organization, ALK Positive Canada believes that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of personal characteristics or background.

This policy establishes APC’s commitment to preventing discrimination and promoting equity across all organizational activities, programs, partnerships, and communications.

Scope

This policy applies to:

  • Employees
  • Board members
  • Advisors and committee members
  • Contractors and consultants
  • Individuals participating in APC programs, events, or activities

Commitment to Non‑Discrimination

APC does not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or exclusion based on protected characteristics recognized under Canadian human rights legislation. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Age
  • Disability
  • Gender identity or gender expression
  • Race, ethnicity, or national origin
  • Religion or belief
  • Sexual orientation
  • Marital or family status
  • Language or cultural background

All individuals interacting with APC are expected to contribute to an environment that is welcoming, respectful, and free from discrimination.

Inclusive Participation

APC strives to ensure that patients and caregivers affected by ALK‑positive cancer have equitable opportunities to participate in programs, advocacy, community engagement, and leadership activities.

Where possible, APC will:

  • Promote accessibility in meetings, events, and digital materials
  • Encourage diverse patient and caregiver voices
  • Reduce barriers to participation when feasible
  • Aim to provide reasonable accommodations for participation in programs

Expected Conduct

Individuals representing or participating in APC activities must:

  • Treat others with dignity, respect, and professionalism
  • Avoid discriminatory language, behaviour, or actions
  • Support an environment where different perspectives and experiences are valued

Behaviour that demeans, excludes, intimidates, or harasses others is inconsistent with APC values and will not be tolerated.

Reporting Concerns

Anyone who experiences or witnesses discrimination, harassment, or inappropriate behaviour in connection with APC activities is encouraged to report the concern in writing to compliance@alkpositivecanada.org. 

Reports may also be made to APC leadership or any board member. Concerns will be reviewed promptly and handled with discretion.

Where appropriate, APC may seek independent or external guidance to address serious concerns or conflicts of interest.

APC will not tolerate retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.

Response and Resolution

If discrimination or harassment is identified, APC may take appropriate action, which may include:

  • Education or guidance
  • Mediation
  • Removal from activities or role(s)
  • Termination of involvement with APC

The goal of resolution processes is to maintain a safe and respectful environment while protecting the integrity of the organization.

Alignment with Canadian Standards

This policy aligns with Canadian human rights principles and reflects governance and ethical standards commonly adopted by national health and cancer organizations.