Diversity with Equity and Inclusion

Ongoing systemic barriers in the federal public service continue to be of great concern. Some members of various minority groups report feeling excluded, unfairly treated, or discriminated against in the federal public service. The need for diversity with equity and inclusion continues to be a priority as CAPE advocates for better policies and practices in the federal workplace.

While the Government recognizes the importance of a public service that is reflective of a diverse Canadian population and promises more diversity at various levels of government, inequity, feelings of exclusion as well as discrimination and racism continue to be reported by members of minority groups within the federal workplace.

Anti-Asian, anti-Black and anti-Indigenous discrimination and racism continue to preoccupy unions, along with other forms of discrimination based on other dimensions of identities protected by the Canadian Human Rights Act.  Fear of reprisal, of not being believed, and perceived lack of support are some of the reasons why federal employees may be reluctant to come forward to seek advice or to file a formal grievance against the employer, despite their right to do so. Problems reported may include harassment, micro-aggressions, inability to enjoy promotions for no valid reasons, differential and unfair treatment, loss of income, loss of self esteem and clinical depression, among others.

CAPE is committed to promoting and integrating best practices in diversity, equity and inclusion, both as an employer and as champion for its members, working closely with the NEC’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Sub-Committee and the National Joint Council’s Joint Employment Equity Committee.

Updates

• May 15, 2023 - Recommendations in the wake of Anti-Black Racism and Racial Discrimination at the Canadian Human Rights Commission
• December 2021 – CAPE establishes partnership with Canadian Center for Diversity and Inclusion
• September 23,  2021 – Unions call on Auditor General of Canada to investigate Canadian Human Rights Commission for alleged racism and discrimination 
• May 21, 2021 - Asian Heritage Month 2021: Recognition, Resilience, and Resolve
• January 22, 2021 - Call to Action on Anti-Racism, Equity, and Inclusion in the Federal Public Service
• December 8, 2020 - CAPE stands in solidarity with Black public service employees who have filed a class action lawsuit for racial discrimination
• November 16, 2020 - CAPE files policy grievance against the Canadian Human Rights Commission for alleged racism and systemic discrimination

Publications, tools and references

• December 2020 - Speakers’ Series: Anti-Black Racism in the Workplace
• April 1, 2020 – Government of Canada’s Directive on Employment Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
• About Bill C-65, the Act to amend the Canada Labour Code (harassment and violence).
• Canadian Human Rights Act
• CAPE’s Policy on Equity and Inclusiveness
   

Events and resources

• March 2023 - Discussion on anti-Black racism and discrimination in the workplace
• Black History Month 2023 - Interview with Michael Coteau, M.P.