Commission Chooses New Champion for the Workplace

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

Nova Scotia businesses have to be leaders in promoting workplace diversity to remain competitive and prosperous, according to the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission.

This message was delivered to more than 70 industry executives who gathered today, Feb. 1, at Halifax's Casino Nova Scotia to learn how respect for diversity and human rights can improve their corporate bottom lines and promote healthy workplaces for employees.

"We need to ask ourselves why one of every two new Canadians who arrive in Nova Scotia move to another place. Why do they not see a future for themselves and their families in our communities?" said commission CEO, Mayann Francis.

The commission named Convergys Corporation as its third champion for the workplace.

The Champions in the Workplace program began in January 2004. It challenges businesses to examine their commitment to diversity within their workplaces. "Champion" businesses host a breakfast meeting for industry colleagues to encourage dialogue and discussion about the role of human rights in creating healthy workplaces.

"I believe global businesses, like Convergys, understand the importance of attracting a diverse employee base. They are also coming to realize that finding employees is only one element of a strategy to increase the diversity of the workforce. Keeping them and providing them with opportunities for promotion to management is another challenge," said Ms. Francis.

"Convergys believes individual differences produce genuine competitive advantages in a global market. Leveraging the diversity of our workforce allows Convergys to maximize our productivity and enhance the quality of service we are able to offer to all of our clients," said Curt Stoll, vice president of international human resources for the customer management group for Convergys.

The commission is looking for more human rights champions in provincial workplaces.

"I challenge each of you to be champions for your workplace," commission vice-chair Lance Hale told the audience. "Take the information you have garnered this morning and put it to practical use in your day-to-day business activities. "

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.