The panel will examine how Canadian firms can handle changing practices in the U.S. assess legal and reputational risks of altering EDI commitments, and identify strategies to advance equity amid shifting legal and political climates. Specifically, the panel will discuss:
- How are U.S. political and legal developments around EDI influencing Canadian law firm approaches to EDI? What should workplace leaders be paying attention to as they monitor developments?
- To what extent could offering EDI initiatives conflict with provincial law society mandates on EDI education, human rights, and rules of professional responsibility?
- Are rollbacks of EDI permissible under Canadian human rights and employment equity legislation? How might legislative and Charter provisions permitting “special programs” impact that analysis?
- If a firm discontinues a specific EDI initiative, what steps should it take to ensure continued alignment with its values, avoid reputational harm, and protect the well-being of employees?
- What practical strategies can Canadian firms adopt to maintain EDI integrity while navigating cross-border business pressures and polarized public discourse?
- In a shifting regulatory environment, what steps can workplaces take to uphold EDI values in hiring, client relationships, and firm culture?
Moderator
Speakers
Accreditation
This program has been approved by CPHR Alberta for 1.5 Continuing Professional Development hours.
This program has been approved by CPHR BC & Yukon for 1.5 Continuing Professional Development hours.
- This program has been approved by the Law Society of British Columbia for 1.5 Continuing Professional Development hours.
- Members of the Law Society of New Brunswick may consider this program for 1.5 Continuing Professional Development hours.
- Members of the Law Society of Ontario may consider counting this program for 1.5 Substantive hours; 0 Professionalism hours.
- LSO EDI Professionalism: 1 hour(s) and 30 minutes(s)
- Members of the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society may consider counting this program for 1.5 Continuing Professional Development hours.