Diversity Network Executive Committees - FAQ

  • 1. What is the goal of a Diversity Network?

    A Diversity Network provide Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) with information that influence the development of policies, resource documents, guidelines, training, and other factors that shape our departmental culture.

  • 2. What type of work do the Diversity Network Committees undertake?

    The Diversity Network Committees meet regularly and are generally responsible for promoting training and events to raise awareness of the Diversity and Inclusion program in our workplace. They also contribute to the strategy and objectives of Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) and the budget associated with the networks for their activities.

    As well, the Network Executive members are key in the engagement of all employees of the Diversity and Inclusion conversation and training and in reviewing the development of policies and procedures that will promote an inclusive workplace.

  • 3. How will the Network Executive Committee ensure they are successful?

    Through consultation with their extended Network members, the Network Executive members will set both short and long-term goals that align to ESDC's Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP). This will help measure their success and keep them accountable by having the Executive members of the network present their progress and issues to our National Steering Committee on Diversity and Inclusion on a quarterly basis.

  • 4. What is the approximate time it will take to be part of an Executive Committee of a Diversity Network?

    The number of hours that the Executive Committee members will be required to be away from their work will vary from 5 to 7.5 hours per week and participate in four (4) quarterly meetings of the expanded network.

  • 5. Do you need to be bilingual?

    No, but it is considered an asset.

  • 6. What experience will you gain by becoming part of the Network Executive Committee?

    As a Network Executive member, you can expect to gain the following experience:

    • Develop and improve communication skills
    • Develop and improve leadership skills
    • Be the voice of the Network and influence high level management and internal practices
    • Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders – the potential to expand your networking capabilities
    • Contribute, influence and encourage the development of a more inclusive workplace at the regional, national and governmental levels so that every employee can have a sense of belonging
  • 7. Can someone run for a Network Executive Committee member's position (Co-Chair, or Secretary,...) as well as the full-time Network Chairperson at the same time?

    Since both the Elections and the Chairperson nomination are two separate processes, there are no issues in running for both as long as the required experiences are met for each respective position employees want to be considered for. However, the person can only hold one position at a time.