Bridging Knowledge Mobilization and Inclusion by Developing a Community of Practice DEI Action Plan

Abstract

Purpose: This Viewpoint article presents the intersection of knowledge mobilization and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) from the perspective of knowledge mobilization practitioners. We represent the Knowledge Mobilization Unit at York University (Toronto, Canada) and Research Impact Canada (RIC), Canada’s knowledge mobilization network. We reflect on building and animating a Community of Practice (CoP) with the Future Skills Centre (FSC) and outline the DEI Action Plan we developed for that knowledge mobilization mechanism. We provide recommendations for researchers and research organizations to strengthen the role of DEI in knowledge mobilization.

Design/Methodology/Approach: We provide critical inquiry into our knowledge mobilization practices through self-reflection, comparison to the literature, and testing against the lived and living experiences of knowledge mobilization and DEI practitioners.

Findings: We outline the steps taken to build the CoP and develop and implement the DEI Action Plan to support peer exchange and learning, collaboration, and capacity building. We also conclude that knowledge mobilization and DEI are mutually reinforcing. Both seek excellence in diverse forms. Both seek to maximize access to research programs, outputs, and evidence. Both are common features in the Canadian research landscape.

Originality: The intersections of knowledge mobilization and DEI are only starting to be explored. As a Viewpoint article, we have written from our perspective of knowledge mobilization practitioners who bring diverse personal and professional DEI perspectives to our work. This complements the literature review conducted by Cornelius-Hernandez and Clark (2024) with recommendations derived from our practice.