| Spotlight on diversity, equity, and inclusion in Atlantic Canada |
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Atlantic Canada shows progress in diversity, but requires increased focus on inclusion and equity Halifax (May 29, 2024) – The Atlantic Economic Council has released its latest report, the ATLΛNTIC Diversity Review highlighting the region’s progress yet ongoing challenges in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across Atlantic Canada.
This research provides valuable insights and benchmarks for employers, boards, and policymakers to measure their performance in DEI. It serves as a call to action to create a more inclusive and equitable Atlantic Canada.
The report highlights the region's progress in becoming more diverse. Rising immigration is leading to a larger visible minority population. The proportion of our population that is a visible minority has increased from 2% in 1996 to almost 8% in 2021. However, Atlantic Canada’s population is still less diverse than Canada as a whole, where visible minorities form 26% of the population, due to a long period of lower immigration to our region.
"We are seeing improvement in terms of representation of women and diverse demographics in senior management and board roles,” says report author Patrick Brannon, Senior Researcher. “However, there is still more work to do to address barriers to employment and career advancement."
For example, women now account for almost 40% of senior managers in Atlantic Canada, up from 25% about 25 years ago. Similarly, women account for one in four board members in the Atlantic region in 2020, up from one in five in 2017. Immigrants account for 7% of senior managers across the Atlantic provinces, higher than their 6% population share.
"While Atlantic Canada is becoming more diverse, we must continue to improve inclusion and equity,” says Brannon. “Women earn only 77% of men’s income on average in Atlantic Canada, and diverse populations generally have lower income levels than the overall population.”
Brannon highlighted the importance of addressing these disparities, noting, "Organizations need to identify and address the underlying causes of pay gaps and employment barriers. Eliminating discrimination and creating equitable opportunities are essential steps towards a more inclusive economy."
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If needed, please abbreviate to the Council, not AEC. Read this report [English] [Français] To schedule an interview please contact: Erica Parrill |