Empowering 2SLGBTQIA+ Workers in Energy is a result of community-led research aiming to translate worker testimony into actionable steps to advance 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and inclusion that employers in the energy sector can implement on the frontline – not just in the corporate office. This research is part of a larger project funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada and will be accompanied by a practical toolkit that can be used in workplaces across the sector to cultivate safer and more inclusive environments for 2SLGBTQIA+ workers.
Through collaboration with experts in the sector and community-serving organizations, this guide is informed by the realities of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals working on the frontlines of the Canadian energy sector. This guide is intended for company executives; human resources professionals; diversity, equity, and inclusion professionals; union representatives; people managers; site supervisors; and employee resource group leaders across Canada’s energy sector to better understand and address these difficult realities.
Note from the Research Team
We designed this research to be community-led and non-extractive. Our aim was simple but urgent: translate lived experience—especially from the field and the trades—into practical actions that make jobs in this sector safer and more inclusive, whether you’re in the office or on the jobsite.
This guide focuses on primary research, so while we reviewed background materials to inform our approach, our recommendations are based on worker testimony and sector expertise. What you will find ahead balances two things: a realistic account of the harms people are navigating, and the bright spots—allyship, leadership, community care—already making a difference.
Content Warning: This guide shares personal stories of homophobia and transphobia at work, including experiences of discrimination, harassment, violence, and mentions of self-harm. Some readers may find this content distressing — please engage only as feels right for you and prioritize your well-being.
“Everyone deserves to work in a place where they feel safe, valued and free to be themselves. Through this investment in Pride at Work Canada, we’re breaking down barriers and building more inclusive workplaces in the electricity sector. When people can bring their full selves to work, they thrive and so do our industries and communities. Together, we’re taking action to end discrimination and create a future where everyone can live free from judgment, bias and hate.”
“The electricity sector is at a pivotal moment and addressing the critical workforce shortage requires supporting the full potential of all Canadians. We are proud to partner with Pride at Work Canada/Fierté au travail Canada to advance inclusive workplaces where 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals feel safe, respected and valued, empowering them to contribute their talents to the fullest.”
“Pride at Work Canada/Fierté au travail Canada is excited to champion this innovative joint initiative because the electricity sector is a critical driver of Canada’s economy. As AI reshapes workplace processes and Canada’s Small Modular Reactor Action Plan transforms the energy landscape, the industry’s workforce needs are evolving rapidly. To build a strong talent pipeline for this industry while enhancing safety and efficiency, we must deeply understand electricity employers and their business challenges. That’s why engagement with employers about their needs will be crucial.”
“Employers want to foster safe environments, but because gender identity and gender expression are comparatively newer grounds in human rights law, they don’t always have the knowledge or tools to uphold these rights effectively. With the invaluable support of EHRC, we have a powerful partner to help us foster meaningful change and build a sector that’s safer for everyone to work in.”
“At Hydro-Québec, we celebrate diversity and the richness it brings us, and we aspire to reflect the diverse society to which we belong. We recognize that the workforce will be a key issue in the electricity sector in the coming years, and we want to attract the best talent. We are very pleased to see organizations working in the energy sector joining forces with associations like Pride at Work to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion and inclusive work environments. Congratulations on this wonderful initiative!”
“On both a personal and professional level, inclusivity is something that matters deeply to me. With a family member in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, I understand the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels safe and valued. As Chief Inclusion & Diversity Officer and executive sponsor of Pride@TC, an employee-led inclusion network, I’ve seen firsthand the power of authentic self-expression within the workplace. That’s why TC Energy proudly partners with Pride at Work Canada—their new joint initiative with Electricity Human Resources Canada is essential in tackling workforce shortages while fostering safer, more inclusive spaces for current and future 2SLGBTQIA+ employees.”
“I can think of no better time to stand in solidarity with such an important project. At Nova Scotia Community College, we believe that inclusive workplaces are the foundation of a thriving and innovative workforce. The “Empowering 2SLGBTQIA+ Workers in Energy”; initiative is a crucial step toward ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, can work in environments where they feel safe, valued, and empowered to succeed. This project will not only strengthen the energy sector, but also drive meaningful change across industries by fostering equity, respect, and opportunity for all.”
