Forbes Recognizes Queer-Friendly Air Canada for Its Diversity
In its inaugural ranking of Canadian companies, Forbes touted Air Canada as one of the country’s best employers for diversity. The magazine believes that the special recognition demonstrates “excellent leadership and success” and “signifies to potential employees that Air Canada’s brand belongs to the top performers.”
“We are thrilled with this recognition, as we value diversity, equity and inclusion as being paramount to our organization’s success,” said Arielle Meloul-Wechsler, Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer and Public Affairs. “Our various programs and initiatives to promote equal opportunities for everyone and a work environment that enables our employees to feel recognized and respected underscore our enduring commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.”
More than 10,000 professionals working for businesses with at least 500 employees in Canada were surveyed by market research group Statista for unbiased results, providing reliable insights to identify Canada’s best employers for diversity. Evaluations were based on various criteria including statements on age, gender, ethnicity, disability, LGBTQ+, general diversity in the current workplace, and diversity among top executives/board.
Air Canada is a proud partner of Pride at Work and a strong supporter of Pride Celebrations and HIV/AIDS causes across the country.
“I’ve never felt discrimination of any sort in the workplace here. I’ve always had jobs I really liked. I’ve been blessed,” explained Eric Lauzon, manager of Community Partnerships.
Beyond its queer-friendly work environment, the Canadian air carrier also offers vacation packages that include International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) and Travel Advocacy Group (TAG) approved hotels and resorts, including Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts in Aruba, Almar Resort Luxury LGBT Beach Front Experience in Mexico, Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica, Sunscape Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino, and Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa in the Dominican Republic. As with any travel planning, Air Canada advises queer travelers to prioritize their safety by researching destinations outside of the accommodation before making booking choices and to remain aware at all times when traveling.
Earlier this year, Air Canada was named to the Forbes list of “Canada’s Best Employers 2022”. In 2022, The airline was also recognized by Mediacorp for the ninth consecutive year as one of “Montreal’s Top Employers”.
