What We Believe
Looking Forward
In 2020, we undertook a strategic planning process for our foundation, to best support our grantees and create impact. We are pleased to share our aspirations for the next 5 years.
Mission
We are committed to enhancing the lives of those marginalized in our communities (both human and animal), through supporting inclusive initiatives that foster learning and well-being.
Vision
An inclusive society in which all beings are treated humanely with respect, care and compassion.
Our Values
The JLF is guided by our commitment to the values of learning and knowledge, equity and inclusion, and connections and building community. JLF board members are committed to these values and we expect the same from our partners. Each of these values is embedded in our strategic priorities, practices, and acts as a compass guiding the work that we do.
LEARNING & KNOWLEDGE
We value learning that involves understanding and critical thinking; learning that is reciprocal and mutually beneficial for all, and knowledge that provides opportunities for individuals and groups to grow and be positively transformed. We recognize that learning can take place both within established educational institutions and outside of those institutions. Learning needs to play a pivotal role in making our world more just, equitable and inclusive.
EQUITY & INCLUSION
We value equity and inclusion: fair and humane treatment, access and opportunities for all. We recognize the existence of historic, systemic and inter-sectional barriers based on ability, age, national origin, ethnicity/race, religion, social class, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/ expression and species that have resulted in some being treated as less valuable members of society than others. We affirm that all are worthy of dignity and respect, and that all should have opportunities to be fully included in their community life.
CONNECTIONS & COMMUNITY BUILDING
We recognize the connections between the land, human and animal welfare and that the human-animal-environment bond beneficially impacts the health of all. We support organizations that understand these connections, and that engage their local communities to eliminate the barriers, injustices and inhumane treatment faced by those whom they serve.
“In many Indigenous cultures, we use the phrase ‘all my relations’ to express the interdependency and interconnectedness of all life forms, and our relationship of mutual reliance and shared destiny. When we treat animals well, we act with both self-respect and mutual respect.” The Honourable Murray Sinclair, 2020