Celebrating progress on inclusion and diversity in the region

Last evening, inclusion champions from several community groups and organizations across the region came together at the Fort McMurray Golf Club to share their progress in creating more equitable and inclusive workplaces for their employees and clients.

In September 2023, the Municipality in partnership with the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce, Fort McMurray Economic Development and Tourism along with the Local Immigration Partnership launched the Wood Buffalo Workplace Inclusion Charter. The charter is a voluntary no-cost employer toolkit and recognition program that supports employers in creating more equitable and inclusive workplaces for their employees and clients. All local organizations can still sign on to the charter and are encouraged to do so.

“It’s clear the Workplace Inclusion Charter is something that has been embraced by the community,” says Mayor Sandy Bowman. “Thank you to all of the organizations, businesses, employers, workers and the many partners that have participated in the program since its launch last year.”

“The work that the municipality has done to meaningfully try and address concerns about equity in the workplace should be noted,” says Kj Banjoko, chair of the Regional Advisory Committee on Inclusion, Diversity and Equality. “It’s important to ensure that marginalized employees are able to thrive in their workplaces and the charter is a foundational piece in the long-term goal of sustaining equitable outcomes for 2SLGBTQIA+, Black, Indigenous, and people of color, older adults, persons with disabilities and anyone requiring support in order for them to succeed.”

See a photo album from the event

RMWB’s progress toward workplace equity, inclusion and accessibility

Led by the RMWB’s Equity and Inclusion office, several staff training programs have been introduced, with many also available to local organizations.

To date, over 540 employees have completed workshops on topics such as:

• 2SLGBTQ1A+ Inclusivity
• Unlocking the Power of Allyship: Taking meaningful action against inequity and unwelcome behaviour
• Autism and Neurodiversity in the Workplace
• Engagement Strategies Towards Ending Workplace Sexual Harassment
• Age Friendly and Accessibility Awareness Training

Efforts have also focused on building a strong foundation through policy, such as the Anti-Racism policy to address inequalities. Four employee quiet rooms were added to support diverse faith and spiritual needs, and accessibility audits were conducted at over eleven facilities to improve usability for individuals with disabilities.

To learn more about the Workplace Inclusion Charter, including the current list of organizations and businesses participating in the program and how your organization can get involved, visit rmwb.ca/wic.