Event Recap: Creating Inclusive Spaces

Friday, Jul 7, 2023

In honour of Pride Month, CREW Calgary and NAIOP were delighted to coordinate a panel discussion on creating inclusive spaces. A delicious lunch was enjoyed in the auditorium of Bankers Hall where attendees had a chance to mingle with each other before the panel discussion.

We heard from a diverse group of panelists on how the industry is responding to 2SLGBTQIA+ diversity and inclusivity, how we got here, and why it matters. Panelists Brendan MacArthur-Stevens, Ed Tsang, Amelia Marie Newbert and Celine Godberson, and our host Robyn Baxter shared their lived experiences as we delved into the topic of inclusivity in workplace culture. They shared important insight on how employers can create safe environments for their staff and clients. Amelia, Co-Founder and Director of Education and Awareness for the Skipping Stone Foundation, introduced us to the concept of “gay breadcrumbs”, a practice employers can undertake to ensure members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community feel seen & safe.

The overarching takeaway from the discussion was this: if you are not being overtly inclusive, you are perceived as being excluding. Attendees certainly walked away with a better understanding of issues facing the community, with an added focus on trans and gender nonconforming individuals.

Should your organization wish to pursue further education on this important topic, you may reach out to the Skipping Stone Foundation directly to inquire about learning opportunities. Bhasin Consulting Inc also offers various training on inclusivity, allyship, and unconscious bias.