On 21 March 2025 at the Waterloo Officers Mess, CFB Borden recognized the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (IDERD) where military personnel, community members and the Defence Visible Minority Advocacy Group (DVMAG) gathered for a thought-provoking seminar led by Commanding Officer of Canadian Forces Training Development Centre (CFTDC), Lieutenant-Colonel Felix Fonséca.
During his opening remarks, LCol Fonséca stressed the significance of this day as a global initiative, discussing both conscious and unconscious biases, microaggressions and the vital importance of fostering an inclusive environment within the CAF.
Key Takeaways:
1. Recognizing and Challenging Bias
The seminar centered on the need to acknowledge how unconscious biases influence interactions and workplace culture.
“Each of us has the power to challenge bias and address our preconceived notions. By doing so, we build a stronger, more united base,” LCol Fonséca said.
By committing to active listening and self-reflection, everyone can contribute to creating a culture of respect. Fostering inclusion is a shared responsibility.
2. The Role of Communication in Inclusion
A recurring theme in the discussion was the power of communication.
“Ninety per cent of communication is active listening,” LCol Fonséca said. “If we truly listen to each other, we can overcome the misunderstandings that often lead to discrimination.”
By listening attentively, misunderstandings take a back seat, and we can focus on truly putting ourselves in another person’s shoes.
3. The Impact of Personal Stories and Shared Experiences
LCol Fonséca recounted a memorable experience from his early career that highlighted the transformative power of sharing personal stories. He recalled an event in 2002 where a gathering of female colleagues led him to understand that their stories not only educate but also unite.
“Listening to those incredible stories taught me that our individual journeys, when shared, become the very foundation of our strength as a community,” he said.
4. Building a Culture of Respect and Fairness
The seminar also delved into how historical biases still impact present-day interactions, such as racial stereotypes, political affiliations and The discussion called for continued education and dialogue, emphasizing that overcoming discrimination requires acknowledging past injustices while actively working towards a more equitable future.
Moving Forward
The event concluded on a hopeful note, with LCol Fonséca encouraging everyone to use the lessons learned to drive change, starting with breakout discussion groups. He reminded participants that creating an inclusive environment is an ongoing process that requires both personal commitment and collective action.
“Let us remember that we each have the responsibility to foster respect and fairness in our workplace,” he said. “Through understanding and communication, we can ensure that every individual is valued.”
