Provincial Government Department Named Champion for the Workplace

Workplaces that embrace a diverse range of cultures, beliefs and abilities are the key to future economic success for Nova Scotia.

This was the message delivered today, June 7, to more than 50 provincial public service and business leaders as the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission named its fourth Champion for the Workplace -- Communications Nova Scotia -- during a breakfast at Royal Artillery Park in Halifax.

"The commission recognizes that diverse and inclusive workplaces help our province remain competitive in a fast-paced world," said commission CEO Mayann Francis. "They help to attract and retain a top notch workforce by creating open, accepting, healthy and inviting work environments."

Communications Nova Scotia and its assistant deputy minister, Laura Lee Langley, were highlighted for the work they have undertaken and the leadership role which government can play to encourage inclusive hiring practices by employers.

"Laura Lee Langley has taken steps to create a healthier work environment for her staff at Communications Nova Scotia," said Ms. Francis. "I deeply respect her commitment to making change happen."

Communications Nova Scotia is the first provincial government department recognized as a champion. Ms. Langley and her staff have initiated a number of activities within the workplace to advance the values of respect and inclusion.

"We did not set out to embrace diversity in our workplace with thoughts of earning a recognition like this," said Ms. Langley. "Communications Nova Scotia's mission is to help Nova Scotians understand what their government is doing, and why. That means all Nova Scotians. It is just good business sense to have a workforce that represents different backgrounds, interests and approaches."

Howard Windsor, deputy minister responsible for Communications Nova Scotia, told the gathering that support from senior staff is critical. "Hopefully you can take some of the things that Communications Nova Scotia has done away with you and apply them to your workplaces," he told business leaders in the room. "It can just be little steps that help make big progress."

The commission launched its Champions for the Workplace program in January 2004 to recognize companies and organizations that make protection of human rights a fundamental part of their business practices. Champions host a breakfast for colleagues to encourage dialogue about the role human rights plays in creating healthy workplaces.

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.