Sharon DeSousa, PSAC National president, shared insights on this election issue at the 2025 Progress Summit

PSAC strongly opposes pledges by both the Conservatives and Bloc Québécois this federal election to defund equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) initiatives in the federal public service.

On the campaign trail, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has repeatedly promised to target what he labels “woke ideology” in both Canada’s public service and through funding for academic research.

At the same time, Bloc Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet’s party platform proposes to abolish equity, diversity and inclusion in the federal public service’s hiring practices if elected, claiming they create exclusion and aren’t suited to the realities of Quebec and other regions.

“Canada’s strength lies in a truly diverse public service – one that lifts everyone up,” said Sharon DeSousa, PSAC National President. “These discriminatory practices are fundamentally wrong and aim to divide us when we should be united.”

Equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives are vital to ensure Canada’s public service reflects all the people it serves. When the government’s workforce is representative, critical programs and services are designed with every individual in mind and can respond to everyone’s unique needs.

PSAC is calling on all federal parties to put forward platforms that will strengthen Canada’s public services and support the people who deliver them. “We have already seen the widespread harm caused by Trump’s attacks on DEI initiatives, workers’ rights and public services in the US,” said DeSousa. “Political parties pushing the same agenda will destroy Canada’s essential services – our safety net – putting families and marginalized people at risk.”