What’s in a name?

For us at the Canadian Centre for GBA+, the inclusion of “Canada” in our title was a decision grounded in deep reflection. The name “Canada” carries a complex and contested history. It is intertwined with stories of colonialism, systemic inequalities, and ongoing struggles for justice, particularly for Indigenous peoples. These histories remind us of the importance of addressing the deep-rooted inequities that shape this land and its institutions.

We chose to include “Canada” as an identifier not to overlook these histories but to situate our work within this specific geography and politics. Gender-Based Analysis Plus is a framework employed globally, yet its application must be deeply contextual. Thus, we use “Canada,” to highlight that our work, research, and analysis are shaped by the boundaries of this particular geography and political context. This specificity is essential when applying intersectional analysis to address the unique social, political, and cultural dynamics of this land.

We also acknowledge the complexity of this choice and see it as a call for action. Using “Canada” in our name serves as both an acknowledgment of the complex histories tied to this land and a commitment to engage with and reflect on these contested narratives.