In Canada, individuals from minority groups, such as non-white immigrants, are encouraged to voluntarily self-declare to access government jobs and programs.
The goal is also to remove barriers to hiring and provide access to specialised programs, mentorship, and networking opportunities, in alignment with the Employment Equity Act.
Self-declaration involves voluntarily identifying as a member of one or more designated employment equity groups, which include women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, asides visible minorities.
The Employment Equity Act (EEA) mandates employers to actively address systemic discrimination in the workplace and ensure fair representation of under-represented groups.
Why self-declaration is important
Data collection: Self-declaration enables the government to gather information on workforce diversity and identify areas where under-representation persists.
Tailored programmes: This data facilitates the development and implementation of bespoke programmes, mentorship initiatives, and networks to promote the advancement of individuals within employment equity groups.
Building a representative public service: By encouraging self-declaration, the government strives to establish a public service that mirrors the diversity of the Canadian populace.
Identifying and eliminating barriers:The information obtained through self-declaration assists the government in recognising and addressing obstacles to hiring and career progression for members of employment equity groups.
Fulfilling legal obligations:
According to the Government of Canada website, “Self-declaration is under the authorities of the Public Service Employment Act, the Employment Equity Act, Canadian Human Rights Act, and its confidentiality is protected under the Privacy Act.
“The information is used for statistical purposes (reports, analyses and special studies) and in the case of processes targeted to EE groups, to determine eligibility. The self-declaration information of applicants appointed to the public service may also be used for compiling workforce representation figures for reports to Parliament”.
How to self-declare
To self-declare, candidates are to fulfil these specific steps to demonstrate their commitment to employment equity when applying for positions via the GC Jobs portal.
First, they should complete the Employment Equity section located under the Requirements segment of the application form.
Additionally, it is recommended that individuals include information about their employment equity group status within their cover letter or résumé, highlighting their alignment with the initiative.
Lastly, are to notify the designated hiring process contact by email, formally communicating their self-declaration status.
