27Mar

Empowering 2SLGBTQIA+ Workers in Energy: An Inclusion Toolkit for Workplaces

March 27, 2026 Contractor 5

Creating safer, more inclusive workplaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ workers requires more than good intentions. In energy and related sectors, many workers continue to navigate workplace cultures, facilities, reporting systems, and policies that were never designed with their realities in mind. This Inclusion Toolkit for Workplaces was developed to help change that. Designed for employers, site leaders, HR/DEI professionals, union representatives, ERG chairs, and workplace champions, this practical toolkit offers clear, actionable resources to advance safety, dignity, and inclusion. The toolkit pays special attention to field-based, remote, and jobsite contexts, where everyday practices, workplace culture, and physical infrastructure can have a major...

24Feb

Letter to Minister Hajdu regarding the Employment Equity Act

February 24, 2026 Contractor 29

Today, Pride at Work Canada / Fierté au travail Canada, in partnership with The Enchanté Network / Le réseau Enchanté, is sharing a public sign-on letter calling on the Government of Canada to modernize the Employment Equity Act and implement the recommendations of the Employment Equity Act Review Task Force. For too long, 2SLGBTQI+ communities have been excluded from employment equity protections—despite ongoing barriers to safe, equitable, and affirming work, especially for trans and nonbinary people and for Two-Spirit, Black, Indigenous, racialized, and disabled community members. 📄 The full letter (and full list of signatories) can be read at the...

10Feb

Pride at Work Canada Testifies Before the Standing Senate Committee on Human Rights on Employment Equity

February 10, 2026 Contractor 38

On February 9, 2026, Pride at Work Canada appeared before the Standing Senate Committee on Human Rights as part of its study on employment equity in the federal public service. Represented by Jade Pichette, Director of Programs and Advocacy, we joined fellow witnesses Tyler Boyce (The Enchanté Network) and Bonnie Brayton (DisAbled Women’s Network of Canada) to share perspectives on the urgent need to modernize Canada’s Employment Equity framework. The Committee, chaired by Senator Paulette Senior, is examining issues related to employment equity under its general order of reference on human rights. This study presents an important opportunity to address...

02Feb

ProPride 2026: Building Queer Futures

February 2, 2026 Contractor 42

Building Queer Futures is Pride at Work Canada’s 2026 ProPride series, focused on helping organizations and individuals move from intention to long-term impact. At a time of rapid social, political, and workplace change, this series asks a critical question: what does it take to build workplaces where 2SLGBTQIA+ people can not only belong today, but shape the future? Through a forward-looking, systems-level lens, Building Queer Futures examines how power, policy, leadership, and culture intersect to influence the experiences and outcomes of Two-spirit, queer and trans people at work. The series of educational sessions will centre on practical strategies for strengthening...

20Oct

Board of Directors Opportunity

October 20, 2025 Contractor 91

Application Deadline: January 31, 2026 Board Director Profile & Application Information Pride at Work Canada is currently seeking candidates who can commit to a 2-year term with the possibility of renewal. This year, we are prioritizing candidates with competencies, skills, and experience in the following areas (though we welcome applications from individuals with other strengths as well): Fundraising and Business Development Academia, Education and Research Governance Knowledge or Expertise Bilingualism in French and English is an asset Application Instructions We invite all interested candidates to fill out this application form by day-end January 31, 2026. Everyone is encouraged and welcomed...

29Sep

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

September 29, 2025 Contractor 89

On Tuesday, September 30, Pride at Work Canada will observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. While this is not a statutory holiday, our Employee Handbook provides this day off with pay. The intention is to give us all the space to reflect on our personal and collective steps toward reconciliation. Looking Ahead On the morning of Friday, October 10, 2025, we will hold an optional staff session focused on defining reconciliation and related terms. During this session, we will: Review Pride at Work Canada’s past reconciliation initiatives—what worked, what didn’t, and the lessons we can carry forward. Unpack...

24Sep

We Are Sounding the Alarm

September 24, 2025 Contractor 69

We are sounding the alarm about potential cuts to 2SLGBTQIA+ equality and women’s rights funding in the upcoming federal budget. In a moment when 2SLGBTQIA+ rights are under attack and where economic upheaval is making life harder for queer people and women across Canada, now is not the time for Canada’s federal government to weaken its commitment to equality and human rights. Investments in gender equality and 2SLGBTQIA+ rights are critical to building a more free and equal Canada, and unlocking the economic potential of historically marginalized communities. That’s why, alongside over 175+ organizations across Canada, including leading 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations...

15Sep

Advancing Equity for 2SLGBTQIA+ Workers in Canada with the Employment Equity Act

September 15, 2025 Contractor 85

To read this policy brief as a PDF, please scroll to the bottom of the page. Employment equity has been a priority for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities in Canada for over 50 years. At the August 28, 1971 “We Demand” rally, the first cross-country gay rights demonstration in Canada, activists presented a list of demands to the Government of Canada, including the right to equal employment and promotion (Kinsman & Gentile 2010). As of 2018, human rights legislation in Canada now protects workers from discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression and yet 2SLGBTQIA+ people in Canada continue to...

12Sep

Forward Together

September 12, 2025 Contractor 96

Today marks the launch of #ForwardTogether—a national campaign to finally bring 2SLGBTQIA+ workers into the heart of Canada’s Employment Equity Act. For decades, Canada’s employment equity framework has recognized women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities. But 2SLGBTQI+ workers remain invisible in the data, unprotected by policy, and excluded from the full promise of equity at work. The result? Persistent wage gaps, higher unemployment, and barriers that keep our communities on the margins. This September, as part of Lobby Day, 2SLGBTQIA+ leaders and allies from across the country are heading to Parliament Hill to demand action....

03Sep

Pride at Work Canada joins the Canada Life Capacity Building Program

September 3, 2025 Contractor 85

Pride at Work Canada/Fierté au travail Canada is proud to announce that we have been selected to participate in the Canada Life Capacity Building Program, an initiative created to support nonprofits and charities across the country in achieving Imagine Canada Standards accreditation. This opportunity is a major milestone for our organization. Accreditation will strengthen our governance, financial oversight, talent management, volunteer engagement, and risk management practices. It also ensures that Pride at Work Canada is well-positioned to meet the challenges facing our communities with resilience, transparency, and accountability. As Executive Director Colin Druhan (he/him) shared in his announcement to staff:...

25Jul

Roundtable on the Status of 2SLGBTQIA+ Human Rights Ottawa

July 25, 2025 Contractor 125

On July 16, 2025, Pride at Work Canada / Fierté au travail Canada co-hosted a roundtable in Ottawa with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Canada. The goal: to explore how our two countries can learn from each other in advancing the human rights and economic inclusion of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. We were joined by leaders from across sectors—civil society, government, and private industry—each bringing unique perspectives and lived experiences. The conversation moved between national policy, local realities, and everyday workplace practices. Together, we explored what it means to embed inclusion into economic systems, not just as a...

11Jun

Pride at Work Canada Closes Toronto Stock Exchange in Recognition of Pride Month

June 11, 2025 Contractor 130

TORONTO, June 11, 2025 – Pride at Work Canada/Fierté au travail Canada assembled a group of its Community and Proud Partners today alongside representatives of the Toronto Stock Exchange (TMX Group) to close the market in recognition of Toronto’s Pride Month and the contributions of 2SLGBTQIA+ employees in Canada’s labour market. This event reflects a growing recognition that uplifting human rights is a strategic business imperative, particularly in the face of coordinated attacks on the rights and freedoms of queer and trans communities. By championing workplaces that celebrate Canada in all of its diversity, employers are empowering current and future...

09Jun

“You belong here.”

June 9, 2025 Contractor 135

As we welcome Pride Month—officially recognized in Manitoba for the first time—the words, “You belong here” spoken by The Honourable Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba, continue to echo through my head. They thundered through the Manitoba Legislative Building on May 29, where history was made: the first drag performance in a Canadian legislature, a bold $2.5 million investment in spaces for queer elders, and new support for 2S, queer, and trans rural Manitobans. The room wasn’t filled with fear. There was no talk of rollbacks or backlash. No concerns about looking “respectable enough” to be taken seriously. Just joy, affirmation,...

20May

“When they roll back, we double down”

May 20, 2025 Contractor 145

The following statement can be attributed to Colin Druhan, Executive Director, Pride at Work Canada / Fierté au travail Canada: In recent months, mainstream media coverage has fixated on the decision of a small number of companies to pause corporate support for this year’s Pride celebrations. Much of this reporting has relied on overly simplistic narratives that ignore well-documented economic pressures, including a looming recession and the broader fallout from ongoing trade instability between the United States and Canada. To Pride at Work Canada’s knowledge, many of these decisions are not the result of values-based backpedaling, but rather a combination...

18Mar

Beyond Borders: See you in Winnipeg!

March 18, 2025 Contractor 178

This is the fourth and final installment of Beyond Borders, a series exploring how queer and trans employees navigate the evolving landscape of business travel. In previous editions, we examined the impact of political shifts in the United States and the challenges of corporate activism. Now, we turn to a city that exemplifies what it means to move beyond performance and into action: Winnipeg. Originally posted on LinkedIn. For years, my birthday tradition was an escape to Palm Springs, where the August off-season meant quiet streets and endless sunshine. But with the Canadian dollar making U.S. travel less appealing this...

09Jan

How Can Training and Development at Pride at Work Canada Help You: Discover the THRIVE Program

January 9, 2025 Contractor 132

At Pride at Work Canada, we are dedicated to fostering inclusive workplace cultures through training and leadership development programs tailored to empower Two-Spirit, queer, and trans professionals. One of our flagship initiatives, THRIVE, is a ten-week virtual leadership program designed to cultivate the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders in Canadian businesses. Here’s what you need to know about THRIVE and how it can transform your professional journey: What is THRIVE? THRIVE is a virtual leadership development program that equips Two-Spirit, queer, and trans individuals with the skills and confidence to excel in leadership roles within inclusive workplaces. Participants will gain...

03Jan

What Does THRIVE Mean to Me in a Leadership Capacity for Managers and Why It’s More Important Than Ever in DEI

January 3, 2025 Contractor 123

Templeton Sawyer (he/him), our Leadership Programs Coordinator For me, THRIVE represents a transformative opportunity, both personally and professionally. As a leader, THRIVE isn’t just a program—it’s a mindset rooted in leadership development, inclusive workplace culture, and empowerment, especially for Two-Spirit, queer, and trans leaders. In today’s dynamic business landscape, fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has become more than just a buzzword; it’s a strategic priority that fuels workplace diversity, innovation, and organizational growth. The Leadership Potential of THRIVE THRIVE offers a unique space for leadership development, centering the lived experiences of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. As a manager, engaging with these...

19Dec

2024 Year Wrap Up

December 19, 2024 Contractor 182

As 2024 draws to a close, we at Pride at Work Canada are taking a moment to reflect on a remarkable year filled with growth, connection, and advocacy. This year, we traveled across the country, uniting communities and partners for meaningful discussions on creating more inclusive workplaces. From coast to coast to coast, we’ve supported employers and employees across the private, public, and non-profit sectors in fostering safer spaces that recognize and celebrate the talents of 2SLGBTQIA+ people. Here are some of our 2024 Highlights: We visited nine cities and hosted 20 in-person events, bringing together communities members and allies! Our...

05Dec

How to Ask Your Employer for Training and Development Opportunities

December 5, 2024 Contractor 124

Image from The Gender Spectrum Collection. Requesting training and development opportunities from your employer can be a game-changer for your career. Whether you’re aiming to upskill, enhance your leadership abilities, or broaden your knowledge in areas like diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), seeking support for professional growth can unlock new doors. Follow these five steps to confidently make your case: 1. Assess Your Professional Development Needs Start by identifying your areas for growth. Are you looking to improve technical skills or focus on leadership development? Perhaps you want to deepen your expertise in DEI initiatives. A clear understanding of your...

28Nov

Solidarity with the Revolutionary Movement in Iran – Women, Life, Freedom

November 28, 2022 Contractor 249

Pride at Work Canada stands in solidarity with the brave women in Iran who are leading a revolutionary movement and fighting for their basic human rights and liberation. This movement has been sparked by the murder of 22-year-old Iranian-Kurdish woman, Mahsa Jina Amini, by Iran’s “morality police” after she was arrested for allegedly not wearing her hijab (head scarf) correctly. Since the tragic death of Amini, brave protestors have been peacefully demonstrating to demand for the fall of the repressive regime of Iran, the Islamic Republic. This is a mass intersectional revolutionary movement that includes women, youth, LGBTQIA+ communities, ethnic...