Creating an inclusive workplace, one of the roles of the PRIDE at Work Network

Although the PRIDE at Work Network at Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) began in 1997 with a mainly social objective, it has evolved over the years into a true force of advocacy and support for members of the Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, and additional sexually and gender diverse (2SLGBTQIA+) community and their allies.

"Originally, the network was mostly social in nature, based on informal meetings between colleagues. But over time, it has grown in scope, maturity and recognition. What started as a simple meeting point has become a real network of mutual support, mobilization and advocacy," explains Dany Morin, new chairperson of the PRIDE at Work Network.

Since November 2024, Dany has played a key role in promoting inclusion and diversity within PSPC and the federal public service as a whole.

Today, the network has 390 members and strong support from PSPC senior management. This support translates into concrete action, as the role of network chairperson has been a full-time position since 2021. It's significant recognition of the essential role of the network, as well as the other diversity and inclusion networks, in the evolution of workplaces.

The network acts as an agent of change, working closely with branches, to ensure that policies, programs and projects are thought of with inclusion in mind. Whether it's by providing advice on the creation of inclusive washrooms or by supporting the updating of information technology systems to allow the modification of names and genders in databases, the network has a concrete role in transforming work environments.

Through his experience as a communications manager at PSPC, Dany has been able to see where his help would be most effective in improving his workplace. His knowledge of the department and programs enables him to provide sound advice. "I continue to work with committed colleagues that I have worked alongside for the past 3 years to improve their services to employees. With my current mandate as chairperson, I'm building on these relationships while forging new ones throughout PSPC to implement inclusion policies," he mentions.

Confidentiality guaranteed

Confidentiality is a fundamental pillar of the network, allowing members to participate without having to reveal their identity. This discretion is essential in a context marked by a history of marginalization, where the fear of coming out is still present among many employees.

Beyond the consultations and behind-the-scenes work, the network offers a warm and welcoming space. Whether it's book clubs, social gatherings or sharing sessions among employees, everything is done to build bridges, break isolation and foster a sense of belonging. "Celebrating certain events, such as Pink Shirt Day, which aims to fight bullying, is part of our activities," explains Dany. The network is also intended to be a resource centre for members facing barriers in the workplace. "My intention is also to be able to listen, give advice and refer to the right resources, while advocating to senior management for the rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ people working at PSPC," he says. A coaching project is also being developed to support the careers of members at all levels.

Ambassadors and allies

Dany emphasizes the importance of the Positive Space initiative within the federal government, which allows ambassadors to present themselves as trusted and allied persons in their workplace. The goal is to strengthen this network of ambassadors at PSPC as well as raise awareness of their services, and thereby provide more support to 2SLGBTQIA+ colleagues.

"I wouldn't be here if I didn't feel welcomed for who I am," shares Dany, whose personal journey, rooted in activism since youth, continues to inspire his professional commitment. "But when I joined the government in 2018, I became a little less active to adopt the non-partisan role of public servant. However, I have kept the same passion for improving our Canadian society, which is where my interest in becoming chairperson of the PRIDE at Work Network comes from," he explains.

Supported by the 6 dedicated members of the executive committee of the PRIDE at Work Network, the task force on anti-racism and other diversity networks, Dany intends to continue his efforts to break down barriers, amplify voices and ensure that no one is left behind. That's a powerful call for solidarity, respect and collective action to make workplaces truly authentic spaces where everyone can grow. "When you join a network, you realize that you receive much more than you give," he concludes.

All of the diversity networks, whether it's the Indigenous Circle of Employees, the Black Professionals Network, the Persons with Disabilities Network or the Visible Minorities Network, provide PSPC employees with a safe environment that allows them to express themselves freely and confidentially.

To learn more about PSPC employees, projects and services making a difference for Canadians, read other articles on Our stories.