The evidence is in: Increasing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in research environments enhances excellence, innovation, and creativity leading to research communities that are as robust and diverse as Canada.

Inspired by the UK's Athena SWAN (Scientific Women's Academic Network) that began in 2005 with a charter that recognizes and celebrates good practices in higher education and research institutes towards the advancement of gender equality, the Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Sport, Canada unveiled on May 9 the Dimensions: Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Canada pilot project [http://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/NSERC-CRSNG/EDI-EDI/Dimensions_Dimensions_eng.asp], along with the Dimensions charter [http://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/NSERC-CRSNG/EDI-EDI/Dimensions_Dimensions_eng.asp].