International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Dear colleagues,

Today marks the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. This day is a reminder to keep taking action within our organization, consolidating our voices against discrimination, and reaffirming our commitment to the work we must continue to do to truly make Parks Canada the inclusive and respectful organization we aspire to be.

The Government of Canada is taking steps in its Action Plan to support Black public servants. By recognizing the challenge of systemic racism in workplaces, we have pledged to cultivate an environment where everyone is valued and given every opportunity to succeed. At Parks Canada, we are working to remove systemic barriers and discriminatory practices faced by Black people, Indigenous peoples, people of colour, and other equity-deserving groups. The pursuit of equity, diversity, and inclusion is a long-term commitment – one that can only come through engagement and collaboration. To this end we are developing an Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Strategy to ensure everyone has a sense of belonging here at Parks Canada. We are also engaging with employees to develop a three-year Employment Equity Action Plan, outlining concrete steps to achieve our equity goals. These documents will serve as road maps for the Agency and its employees to reach their full potential.

Our strength lies in our diversity. The Parks Canada Values and Ethics Code, along with the Values and Operating Principles, ensure that team members actively create inclusive spaces where every member feels valued and respected and where we can harness the power of varied perspectives and experiences. We are committed to providing fair opportunities for all and ensuring everyone, regardless of background, can thrive and contribute to our collective success.

Today, and every day, we must confront racism, discrimination, and xenophobia in all their forms. Whether in person or online, in our communities, in our schools, or at work, everyone has the right to live a life free of hate and discrimination. Employees who believe they have experienced discrimination can contact the Office of the Ombud and the Workplace Health and Wellness team for guidance and assistance. As a start, you can support your colleagues in a number of equity, diversity and inclusion communities by contacting the groups that you would like to contribute to.

By fostering a culture of anti-racism, understanding and solidarity, we can truly honor the spirit of this day and create a brighter, more equitable future for all.

Ron Hallman

President & CEO

#StrongerTogether #ParksCanadaProud

Reminder to managers: In keeping with Parks Canada's procedures for communications with employees, managers are responsible for ensuring all team members under their responsibility receive the information intended for them. It is important that you find a means to transmit this message and, if any, the attachment(s) to employees without access to Parks Canada e-mail or the intranet, e.g. by posting it, circulating a paper copy or by any other appropriate means.