Sharnelle Morgan

Over the last few years in Toronto, gender responsive budgeting has gained some traction. In July 2016, Toronto City Council approved a motion by Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam to incorporate a gender equity perspective in all parts of the city budget process. Six months later, in January 2017, Councillor Wong-Tam held a town hall on gender responsive budgeting to foster discussion between experts and the public about how to make programs and services more equitable. However, according to critics, the city budget passed in 2017 failed to adopt a gender sensitive budget and as such, has had unfavourable effects on women. As policy enthusiasts watched deliberations over the 2018 city budget, gender responsive budgeting was once again in the news.

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Sanya Ramnauth

Everyone in Canada should have access to clean and safe drinking water. Sadly, many of Canada’s First Nations have been denied this fundamental human right. Inadequate funding over several decades has led to contaminated and undrinkable source water in over 297 First Nations across Canada. Unlike municipalities in Canada, where drinking water is protected by provincial legislation and enforceable drinking water standards, there is no binding federal standard that holds anyone accountable for the provision of clean and safe drinking water in First Nations. This leaves First Nations drinking water in a regulatory void, with unsafe drinking water that that the federal government is grappling to address.

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Antona Christus-Ranjan

According to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, “diversity is Canada’s strength”. Canada is known as a multicultural nation that celebrates its historically diverse population. However, many people still face negative experiences and exclusion in the workplace due to their distinct backgrounds. To provide context, a diverse workforce is “made up of individuals who have an array of identities, abilities, backgrounds, cultures, skills, perspectives and experiences that are representative of Canada’s current and evolving population”. An inclusive workforce recognizes, values and fully leverages the diversity of the work environment by being fair, equitable, welcoming and respectful. It is important to promote an inclusive workforce in order to maintain a healthy work environment where workers feel welcomed and appreciated regardless of their backgrounds. This article outlines four aspects of the Canadian workforce which deserve our attention.

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