Forward Together

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. Our message is clear:

• Include 2SLGBTQIA+ workers as a designated group in the Employment Equity Act
• Modernize the Act to reflect intersectionality and the lived realities of our communities
• Ensure employers collect meaningful, safe, and inclusive workforce data
• Build true transparency and accountability into employment equity reporting

Lobby Day isn’t just another meeting. It’s a movement. We’re bringing stories, evidence, and urgency straight to decision-makers, pushing for a future where every worker in Canada is recognized, respected, and protected.

Pride at Work Canada and the Enchanté Network are proud to bring together delegates from Alter Acadie, Conseil québécois LGBT, LGBT YouthLine, 2Spirit Manitoba, Edmonton Pride Centre, and QMUNITY to be part of this effort.

Change doesn’t happen by accident—it happens when we move #ForwardTogether.

For more information or to share a statement of support, please contact:

Albert Lin (he/him)
Governance & Strategy Manager
Pride at Work Canada
albert.lin@prideatwork.ca

Dylana Thompson (she/her)
Director of Policy and Advocacy
The Enchanté Network
dylana@enchantenetwork.ca