1. Policy Statement

Our organization is committed to fostering a workplace that values diversity, promotes equity, and ensures inclusion across all levels. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation, collaboration, and long-term success. We are dedicated to providing a safe, respectful, and equitable environment where everyone can contribute and thrive.

2. Legislative Framework

This policy is guided by:

• The Canadian Human Rights Act
• The Employment Equity Act
• Applicable provincial human rights codes
• The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) (and equivalent provincial accessibility laws)

We comply fully with these regulations and aim to exceed them through proactive inclusion practices.

3. Definitions

Diversity:

The variety of unique experiences, backgrounds, and identities that individuals bring, including differences in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, ability, age, religion, language, and culture.

Equity:

Fair access to opportunities, resources, and advancement, while identifying and removing systemic barriers.

Inclusion:

Creating a culture where every individual feels respected, supported, and empowered to contribute fully.

4. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, consultants, and vendors engaged with our organization across Canada.

5. Commitments and Key Initiatives

• Use inclusive job descriptions and neutral language.
• Partner with diverse talent networks and Indigenous employment initiatives.
• Ensure diverse hiring panels and equitable selection processes.
• Remove identifying information from applications where appropriate to reduce bias.

• Conduct regular pay equity reviews in accordance with federal and provincial legislation.
• Provide equitable opportunities for training, mentorship, and promotion.
• Ensure transparent performance evaluation criteria.

• Provide mandatory training on unconscious bias, inclusive leadership, and anti-harassment.
• Offer ongoing education on cultural competency, accessibility, and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.

• Comply with the AODA and equivalent legislation across provinces.
• Provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities in all employment stages.
• Ensure both physical and digital accessibility in all workplaces and systems.

• Prioritize partnerships with diverse and Indigenous-owned businesses.
• Support community initiatives that promote education, technology access, and equity for underrepresented groups.

6. Social and Environmental Responsibility

• Support sustainability and ethical labor practices across our operations.
• Encourage community volunteerism and participation in environmental and social impact projects.
• Integrate DEI principles into environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.

7. Accountability and Reporting

• Establish measurable DEI goals and review progress annually.
• Collect and analyze workforce demographic data in accordance with privacy laws.
• Report outcomes to leadership and staff transparently.
• Hold management accountable for fostering inclusive teams and equitable decision-making.

8. Reporting and Addressing Concerns

• Provide confidential channels for reporting discrimination, harassment, or bias.
• Investigate all reports promptly, fairly, and without retaliation.
• Apply corrective actions when necessary to uphold the integrity of this policy.

9. Review and Continuous Improvement

This policy is reviewed annually and updated as needed to reflect legislative changes, organizational growth, and evolving best practices in diversity, equity, and inclusion.