Commission Names New Champion for the Workplace

HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION--Commission Names New Champion for the Workplace

The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission believes that for Nova Scotia to remain competitive and prosperous, more must be done to diversify its workplaces.

This message was delivered to almost 50 hospitality industry executives when they gathered today, May 20, at Halifax's Prince George Hotel to learn how respect for diversity and human rights can improve their corporate bottom lines and promote healthy workplaces for employees.

"The key to attracting a top-notch workforce is creating open, accepting and inviting workplaces for employees. The potential of Nova Scotia's diverse population should be no mystery. Success for business requires barriers to participation to be eliminated," said commission CEO Mayann Francis.

Service industries like the hospitality sector provide 78 per cent of the jobs created in Nova Scotia, according to research conducted by the commission.

Nicholas Carson, general manager of the Prince George Hotel, was named the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission's next champion for the workplace.

"Our experience in dealing with a diverse workforce has enabled us to recognize that with diversity comes acceptance, understanding and respect of individual difference which lead to a more empathetic service culture," said Mr. Carson.

The commission is looking for more human rights champions in provincial workplaces. Champions will be asked to host a breakfast meeting for industry colleagues to encourage dialogue and discussion about the role of human rights in creating healthy workplaces.

"Through efforts to promote diversity and respect for differences on the job, you have a vital role to play in opening opportunity for all Nova Scotians," commission chair James Dewar told the audience. "The impact of that will move well beyond the boundaries of the workplace."

As part of its mandate, the commission delivers public education and training programs to help businesses and community groups with policy development and recruitment practices that open up employment opportunities for all Nova Scotians, particularly groups that have traditionally been disadvantaged.