OTTAWA, Canada, Mon. July 29, 2024 — The Coalition Against Workplace Discrimination has released a concerning internal report, obtained through the Access to Information Act, revealing extensive discrimination within the Privy Council Office (PCO). As Canada’s largest employer, the federal government relies on the PCO to oversee the public service while providing support to the Prime Minister and the federal Cabinet, making these findings alarming for all Canadians.
In a six-month investigation, interviews with staff conducted by a leading researcher unveiled a troubling environment at the PCO characterized by racial stereotyping, microaggressions, and verbal violence—practices that appear to be normalized even at the executive level. The report highlights a culture that not only discourages reporting but also lacks essential accountability mechanisms. Furthermore, it notes a stark disparity between the career opportunities available to white employees compared to those of Black, Indigenous, and other racialized employees, who frequently find themselves in temporary and lower-level roles.
Despite a Call to Action issued in 2021 by the then Clerk of the Privy Council aimed at addressing racism, equity, and inclusion, the report indicates that the Corporate Services department remains a significant barrier to achieving these goals. Black and racialized employees at the PCO have expressed frustration over insufficient progress in this area.
In response to the report, the PCO outlined steps taken since the internal findings were released. However, the coalition argues that while some initiatives are in place, they fall short of adequately addressing the systemic issues highlighted in the report, with many key recommendations still unaddressed.
The Coalition Against Workplace Discrimination has outlined several calls to action, including:
- The resignation of Deputy Clerk Natalie Drouin and Assistant Secretary to the Cabinet, Ministerial Services and Corporate Affairs, Matthew Shea, who has led Corporate Services since 2017.
- The appointment of a Black Equity Commissioner to tackle systemic anti-Black racism across all levels of government.
- The establishment of a department of African Canadian Affairs to centralize and prioritize anti-Black racism initiatives.
- Immediate implementation of promised amendments to the Employment Equity Act, recognizing Black Canadians as a designated equity group.
- Provision of restitution to Black public sector workers who have filed a class-action lawsuit stemming from years of documented discrimination.
QUOTES
“It is shocking that this level of blatant discrimination occurred in one of Canada’s highest offices. Once again, those who have been perpetrators of discrimination are being tasked with implementing change. This approach has consistently failed, and it’s time for real arms-length accountability mechanisms and structural changes to meaningfully address anti-Black discrimination,” said a spokesperson for the Black Class Action Secretariat.
“This report underscores the urgent need for the federal government to promptly table the Employment Equity Act amendments in line with the Task Force’s recommendations. Additionally, swift resolution of the class-action lawsuit filed by Black public service workers is essential,” stated a representative from the Canadian Labour Congress.
“As professionals working within the PCO, we are outraged that such discriminatory practices have continued unchecked. Significant structural changes are urgently needed to create a fair and inclusive workplace for all employees. The federal government must act decisively to implement necessary reforms and ensure accountability at all levels,” added a leader from the Canadian Association of Professional Employees.
ABOUT:
The Coalition Against Workplace Discrimination includes numerous organizations advocating for equity and justice, previously highlighting discrimination at the Canadian Human Rights Commission, which is under investigation by an international body.
