Discover how you can create a culture of equality in your workplace

• Introduction
• The importance of EDI
• Resources
  • Accessibility
  • Anti-Racism
  • Benefits of Socioeconomic Diversity to Organizations
  • Creating a Trans-Inclusive Workplace
  • Creating Meaningful Land Acknowledgments
  • Dates of Significance Calendar
  • Gender Diversity
  • Inclusive Events Checklist
  • Inclusive Hiring Practices
  • Inclusive Language
  • Inclusive Leadership
  • Indigenous Inclusion
  • Psychological Health and Safety
  • Speaker Code of Conduct
  • Supplier Diversity
  • Workplace Discrimination and Harassment
  • General Resources
• EDI in the News

Introduction

This webpage is designed to help you, our members find the information you need to develop an effective culture of equity, diversity and inclusion in your organization, and further promote that culture within the community.

We have begun to create and curate this collection of resources chosen specifically for a business audience. Resources are organized by topic and can be used alone or alongside others. We will add to and update these resources regularly and urge you to check back frequently. As always, we welcome membership feedback.

Embracing Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in today’s dynamic business landscape, means that you are committed to advancement. Workplaces where a culture of EDI is fostered allow employees to feel valued and respected, driving innovation and creativity. Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace is central to attracting talented employees and setting your company up for success.

Here are some Canadian statistics that highlight the importance of companies embracing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI):

Economic Performance

A McKinsey & Company study found that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on executive teams were 25% more likely to have above-average profitability than companies in the bottom quartile and this same study discovered that companies in the top quartile for being ethnically and culturally diverse are 36% more profitable than those in the bottom quartile.

Employee Retention and Satisfaction:

According to a 2019 report by the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion, organizations with inclusive cultures experience an 8.6% improvement in overall team performance and a 5.6% increase in employee retention.

Innovation and Creativity

The same report by the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion indicated that organizations with diverse and inclusive cultures are 6 times more likely to be innovative and agile.

Customer Insight and Market Growth

A report by the Conference Board of Canada noted that diverse leadership teams are 70% more likely to capture new markets, enhancing growth and profitability.

Reputation and Brand

The Canada Business Network states that companies with strong EDI policies are viewed more favorably by the public, which can boost a company’s reputation and attract top talent.

These statistics underscore the tangible benefits of EDI, showing that embracing diversity and fostering an inclusive environment can lead to improved financial performance, enhanced employee satisfaction, greater innovation, and stronger market presence.

Here are some of the resources to get you started on your EDI journey.

• Accessibility
• Anti-Racism
• Benefits of Socioeconomic Diversity to Organizations
• Creating a Trans-Inclusive Workplace
• Creating Meaningful Land Acknowledgments
• Dates of Significance Calendar
• Gender Diversity
• Inclusive Events Checklist
• Inclusive Hiring Practices
• Inclusive Language
• Inclusive Leadership
• Indigenous Inclusion
• Psychological Health and Safety
• Speaker Code of Conduct
• Supplier Diversity
• Workplace Discrimination and Harassment
• General Resources

With more to come.

Resources

Accessibility

Accessibility is vital to fostering equitable and inclusive communities where everyone can participate fully, regardless of ability. By removing barriers – physical, digital, or systemic – we create opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and meaningful engagement. Prioritizing accessibility is not only a legal obligation but also a moral imperative to ensure dignity and inclusion for all. Learn more by visiting the Ontario Government Accessibility Resource Site.

View Resource

Anti-Racism

Anti-racism in the workplace is essential to fostering a culture of equity, inclusion, and respect. It requires actively identifying and dismantling systemic barriers and biases that hinder opportunities for racialized employees. By prioritizing anti-racism, businesses create environments where diverse perspectives thrive, innovation flourishes, and all employees feel valued. This commitment not only strengthens workplace culture but also drives economic growth and builds trust with the broader community.

Courageous Conversations to Combat Racism
Anti-racism & Organizational Change: A Guide for Employers

Benefits of Socioeconomic Diversity to Organizations

Embracing socioeconomic diversity enriches organizations by bringing diverse perspectives and experiences, leading to innovative problem-solving. It fosters a more inclusive culture, enhances team collaboration, and reflects a broader customer base. This diversity strengthens organizational resilience and adaptability, driving overall success and growth.

The following white paper from the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology provides a list of Do’s and Don’ts that will help you ensure that employees will be afforded the opportunities to succeed professionally in your workplace.

Download the white paper

Creating a Trans-Inclusive Workplace

Creating a trans-inclusive workplace fosters a respectful and supportive environment, enhancing employee well-being and productivity. It attracts diverse talent, reduces turnover, and strengthens the organization’s reputation. A trans-inclusive culture promotes equality, respect, and innovation, benefiting both employees and the organization as a whole.

The following link is a valued resource in creating trans-inclusive workplaces and making transgender employees feel valued at work.

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Creating Meaningful Land Acknowledgements

Using the right resources to prepare a land acknowledgment provides accurate, localized information about Indigenous territories, languages, and treaties. It helps ensure that acknowledgments are respectful and accurate, fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous histories and cultures, and promoting meaningful reconciliation efforts.

The following link will provide you with extensive resources and geographic specific information when developing a meaningful land acknowledgement.

Find Out More

Dates of Significance Calendar

Utilizing resources that provide dates of significance helps organizations recognize and honor important cultural and historical events. This awareness fosters a more inclusive workplace, promotes diversity, and supports meaningful engagement with diverse communities and their experiences.

The Government of Canada provides a list with some of the important and commemorative days.

View the Calendar

Gender Diversity

Gender diversity is essential for fostering innovation, collaboration, and equitable workplaces. By embracing diverse perspectives, businesses unlock creativity, enhance decision-making, and reflect the communities they serve. Promoting gender diversity involves breaking down systemic barriers, ensuring equal opportunities, and creating inclusive environments where all individuals can thrive. This commitment not only drives organizational success but also demonstrates leadership in building a fair and equitable society.

Guide of Best Practices for LGBTQ+
Championing Women in Business in Canada

Inclusive Events Checklist

Utilizing an events checklist that includes equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) items ensures that all aspects of your event are inclusive and welcoming. It helps identify and address potential biases, enhances accessibility, and fosters a respectful and diverse environment for all participants.

The following link with provide you with a sample checklist to elements to consider when preparing for an event.

Download Fillable Checklist

Inclusive Hiring Practices

Inclusive hiring practices broaden the talent pool by attracting diverse candidates, fostering innovation and creativity. They create a fair and equitable recruitment process, enhancing the organization’s reputation. Inclusive hiring also improves employee satisfaction and retention, leading to a stronger, more dynamic workforce.

The following link will provide you with the Niagara Region’s Human Resources Best Practices Guidebook on how to increase diversity and inclusion in recruitment, hiring and promotion.

Download the Guidebook

Inclusive Language

Inclusive language is a cornerstone of creating respectful and equitable workplaces. The words we use can foster belonging, build trust, and show respect for diverse identities and experiences. By avoiding assumptions, addressing bias, and embracing inclusive terminology, businesses demonstrate their commitment to equity and inclusion. Thoughtful communication strengthens relationships, enhances collaboration, and ensures everyone feels valued. Learn more about inclusive language and its impact in this Comprehensive Guide.

The Power of Inclusive Language

Inclusive Leadership

Inclusive leadership is vital for fostering workplace cultures where diversity thrives and every voice is valued. Leaders who prioritize inclusivity drive innovation, collaboration, and trust by creating environments where all employees feel respected and empowered. Inclusive leadership goes beyond representation – it involves active listening, equitable decision-making, and addressing systemic barriers. By embracing this approach, businesses build stronger teams, enhance employee engagement, and position themselves as champions of equity and inclusion.

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Indigenous Inclusion

Indigenous inclusion is essential for advancing reconciliation, fostering equity, and honoring the rich contributions of Indigenous peoples. By creating opportunities, addressing systemic barriers, and amplifying Indigenous voices, businesses strengthen relationships and build inclusive workplaces. Self-awareness is key, and can help identify unconscious biases. For more resources and actionable steps, explore this Comprehensive Guide to Indigenous Inclusion.

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Psychological Health and Safety

Mental health and well-being in the workplace are essential for fostering a supportive, productive, and inclusive environment. Prioritizing mental health reduces stress, enhances employee engagement, and improves overall performance. By promoting open dialogue, offering resources, and reducing stigma, businesses create spaces where employees feel valued and supported. A focus on mental well-being benefits both individuals and organizations, driving long-term success and resilience.

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Speaker Code of Conduct

Having a speaker code of conduct at events or meetings ensures respectful and inclusive communication, setting clear expectations for behavior. It promotes a safe and welcoming environment, encourages diverse perspectives, and helps prevent discrimination or bias, fostering a positive experience for all participants.

The following link is GNCC’s code of conduct outline for speakers.

Download Speaker Code of Conduct

Supplier Diversity

Supplier diversity is key to fostering economic inclusion and innovation by supporting businesses owned by underrepresented groups. Engaging diverse suppliers strengthens local economies, broadens market opportunities, and enhances supply chain resilience. By prioritizing supplier diversity, businesses demonstrate their commitment to equity while accessing fresh perspectives and ideas. It’s a strategic approach that drives growth, builds community partnerships, and reflects the values of inclusion and opportunity.

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Workplace Discrimination and Harassment

Preventing and addressing workplace discrimination and harassment is critical to fostering a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. Such behaviors undermine employee well-being, stifle innovation, and damage organizational culture. By implementing robust policies, providing training, and encouraging open dialogue, businesses can create workplaces where everyone feels respected and valued. Prioritizing this commitment enhances productivity, builds trust, and demonstrates leadership in promoting fairness and inclusion within the community.

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General Resources

50-30 Challenge

Canada’s 50-30 Challenge is a vital initiative promoting greater representation of women and underrepresented groups in leadership (50% women, 30% diversity). It encourages businesses to prioritize equity and inclusion, fostering innovation, stronger decision-making, and diverse perspectives. By embracing the challenge, organizations demonstrate their commitment to social progress and reflect Canada’s diversity, creating inclusive workplaces that drive sustainable growth and strengthen communities.

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Making a case for Diversity

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are not just about ROI—they are about building workplaces that reflect fairness, respect, and opportunity for all. A strong DEI framework drives innovation, fosters collaboration, and strengthens organizational culture. This toolkit provides actionable steps to articulate the ethical and strategic imperative for DEI, empowering businesses to create lasting impact and lead with purpose in an increasingly diverse world.

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EDI Partners

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