Delivering effective communications: Diverse and inclusive networks

In support of the Clerk of the Privy Council’s Call to Action, Deputy Minister’s Commitments on Diversity and Inclusion, Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Canada’s Anti-Racism strategy, the Government of Canada calls on all public servants to increase equity and inclusion in the public service. This will establish a framework where we strive towards building a culture of inclusiveness that reflects the diversity of the Canadians we serve. Effective communications start with combatting discrimination and debunking misinformation towards racialized communities. These considerations should be at the forefront of all communications planning. 

Misinformation is inevitable, but there are ways to avoid it! The first step, as communication professionals, is to know your target audience and consult them in your communications product development.

So, where to start?

Thankfully, there are many reliable and accurate Diversity and Inclusion resources and networks available to the #GcComms community. Here are some top tips: start by acknowledging and addressing your own implicit bias, by taking a course on GCcampus; focus on the facts and have your work reviewed by your target audience; and reach out to  Diversity and Inclusion Networks.

*Note: These are some of networks available to you. 
**Some resources and networks are accessible only on the Government of Canada network.

Diversity and Inclusion Resources and networks

• Centre on Diversity and Inclusion (CDI): GCconnex
• Advisory Committee on Ethnocultural and Immigration Statistics
• Anti-Racism Ambassadors Network!
• Addressing anti-Asian racism
• Mentorship Plus Program
• GCcollab - Diversity and Inclusion CoP
• Community of Federal Visible Minorities (CFVM): GCconnex

Accessibility and disability awareness resources and networks

• GCconnex - Plain Language Community of Practice
• Plain Language and Accessibility Hub
• Join the Accessibility Strategy Working Group led by TBS

LGBTQ+ and GBA+ resources and networks

• Becoming an Ambassador for LGBTQ2+ Inclusion
• LGBTQ2 Secretariat
• Youth Working Group on Gender Equality
• Gender-Based Violence Knowledge Centre
• Additional support services for those affected by gender-based violence

Indigenous awareness resources and networks

• Indigenous Learning Series
• Assembly of First Nations
• Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami
• Métis National Council
• National Association of Friendship Centers

Did we miss any networks? Let us know! Email the CCO and tell us about your Diverse and Inclusive network. More Diversity & Inclusion products for public servants are coming! Keep an eye out for the CCO Learning Portal and CCO’s GCpedia.