Virtual Safe Spaces

Black United

Black United, established in June 2020, is a safe space for employees of the Employment and Social Development portfolio, including Service Canada and the Labour Program, who self-identify as Black. The safe space offers a platform for members to virtually connect and collaborate with each other, share tools and resources, and promote mutually beneficial opportunities with one another. The space also features a Book Club where members can engage on content of interest.

To promote a healthy and inclusive work environment, members meet regularly (Wednesday, 4:30pm ET) for introspection and discussions regarding:

• Various topics of interest,
• Specialty topics delivered by guest speakers, and
• Past and current events.

Black United is an independent and employee-led space that supports the broader diversity and inclusion mandate of ESDC. Employees who self-identify as Black can register by completing the Black United membership form page.

Black United Allies

Black United Allies, is a safe space that welcomes allies who support a positive and inclusive workplace for Black employees. This space offers resources and tools to provide context and a window into the Black employee experience. We believe that the key to progression beyond systemic norms is in educating ourselves on the issues marginalizing the Black community. Our hope in building this space is to promote learning, build awareness and a sense of community so that we can help each other to positively influence ESDC’s culture – one where we all belong and are all proud to be a part of.

All ESDC employees are welcome to join Black United Allies on MS Teams.