The Canadian Association of Professional Employees (CAPE) is governed by its Constitution, which states that the Association’s mandate is to represent our members in the workplace. CAPE has more than 25,000 members across Canada, and our duty is to represent every one of them with the same level of understanding and commitment.
While the Association has not taken positions on geopolitical issues, we recognize that recent events in the Middle East and globally have deeply impacted the wellbeing of some of our members. Tensions have led to increases in antisemitic, anti-Palestinian and Islamophobic discrimination and harassment both in and out of the workplace. As per your collective agreement, the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Canada Labour Code, Part II, your employer is responsible for ensuring a safe and healthy work environment. Notwithstanding this, CAPE’s role is to support and assist our members in the workplace if and when the employer fails to meet its obligations.
To be clear, CAPE will provide support to members who experience hate, discrimination or racism in the workplace. All members, regardless of race, religion or identity have the right to feel safe and respected in the workplace.
The right to freedom of expression is protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. All federal public sector employees are bound by the Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector which lays out the expectations and limits for federal employees’ behaviour.
We will continue to fulfill our mandate and support our members and their right to a safe, healthy and respectful workplace.
