We recognize that, from time to time, geopolitical and social tensions in Canada and around the world may trickle down into the workplace, exposing some communities and specific groups to greater risk of harassment, racism and discrimination.
We would like to remind you, our members, that you have rights. The employer is responsible for ensuring all federal public sector employees enjoy a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment in all its forms, as per your collective agreement, the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Canada Labour Code, Part II.
If you are having any issues, please remember that you should first address them with your manager and/or your departmental Informal Conflict Management System. Your union is prepared to provide guidance and assist and support you at those stages if required — please contact us at general@acep-cape.ca. Should those avenues fail to address the problem, contact CAPE for help to escalate the issue towards a solution.
An Auditor General’s report released last Thursday, which looked at six departments and agencies covering approximately one-fifth of the federal public workforce, found that anti-discrimination efforts are falling short in the federal public sector. This week, the employer announced a new panel to help create a “restorative engagement program” as part of a broader strategy to identify, address and prevent harassment, discrimination, and violence in the workplace. These developments are why we must always continue to keep workplace harassment and discrimination high on our agenda.
We all have a role to play. Together, we can contribute to a safe and respectful workplace, rally together around the principles enshrined in the Canadian Human Rights Act and hold the employer accountable every step of the way.
