The CBA is committed to promoting equality in the legal profession and the justice system. All CBA members share the responsibility and rewards of building a more powerful, inclusive, diverse, and engaged profession across Canada.

Why should National Sections think about equality and diversity when planning their activities?

• Sections attentive to equality and diversity issues provide added value for members, which in turn can increase the participation of existing members and attract new members.
• Sections attentive to equality and diversity issues in their advocacy, professional development and community-building have a leading role in the CBA. These Sections offer enriched member experiences, better connections across the profession, and can effect real change for the better.

National Section Deliverables

• Professional Development: Sections must consider equality and diversity when developing their PD programs, including gender balance on panels and presenters from diverse backgrounds.
• Succession Planning and Committee Appointments: Sections must consider equality and diversity when filling executive and committee positions. This may require outreach to individuals and organizations, as well as consulting with local branches.
• Organizing Meetings: Sections must consider equality and diversity when planning meetings. Issues to consider include family responsibilities, cultural or religious observances, and accessibility issues.
• Law Reform: Sections must apply an equality and diversity lens in their advocacy initiatives. Encouraging gender balance and diversity in the group leading the work is a good first step. Other CBA Sections and Committees can also be an important resource for Sections working to include equality and diversity perspectives in their submissions.
• Member Self-Identification: Progress needs to be measured. All CBA members are encouraged to provide demographic information in their member profile so the CBA can hold itself accountable. The aggregate statistics drawn from this data will help the CBA to better understand demographic trends in the both the legal profession and its membership, and to inform the development programs and initiatives to promote equality and diversity in the profession.

CBA National Office Deliverables

• Providing resources and advice to enable Sections to achieve equality and diversity goals.
• Supporting Sections in advancing equality and diversity initiatives.
• Facilitating relationships within the CBA and with other associations committed to advancing equality and diversity in the legal profession and the justice system.

For more information contact Véronique Morissette at veroniquem@cba.org