Join PSAC for a discussion about Islamophobia and antisemitism. Our panel will discuss how these forms of discrimination are manifested in workplaces, strategies for addressing them, and ways to foster a more inclusive work environment. 

Date: June 10, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. ET 

Panelists 

Amira Elghawaby, Canada's Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia 

Amira is a journalist, and human rights advocate, and previously worked at Canadian Labour Congress.  In January 2023, she was appointed as Canada’s Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia. Ms. Elghawaby serves as a champion, advisor, expert, and representative to support and enhance the federal government’s efforts in the fight against Islamophobia, systemic racism, racial discrimination, and religious intolerance.  

Avi Lewis, Canadian documentary filmmaker and journalist 

Avi is an acclaimed documentary filmmaker and journalist, renowned for his global coverage of political events for prestigious networks such as CBC and Al Jazeera. His incisive interviews with political leaders have garnered widespread recognition. Lewis' work has earned him numerous accolades, including a Gemini Award for Best Special Event Coverage and the esteemed International Jury Prize. Since 2020, he has been an Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia (UBC). He is a member of Independent Jewish Voices, and a co-founder of the UBC chapter of the Jewish Faculty Network. Since October 7, he has been a passionate public advocate calling for recognition of a diversity of Jewish perspectives. He has been a sought-after media commentator on CBC television and radio, in the Globe and Mail, and in press conferences with diplomatic and humanitarian leaders. 

Workplace free of discrimination 

Over the past year, there has been an important and ongoing dialogue surrounding the definitions of Islamophobia and antisemitism. 

As this dialogue continues to unfold in our workplaces and our communities, PSAC members are invited to attend this webinar and hear from expert panelists about these forms of discrimination and strategies for addressing them in the workplace. 

Increased rates of hate, prejudice and intolerance underscore the urgent need for all workers to have access to a safe, supportive, and inclusive working environment – one that is unequivocally free from any form of harassment or discrimination.  

PSAC remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding these rights, ensuring that every member feels protected and respected in their workplace. 

What do I do if I have been discriminated against at work? 

PSAC members who may be experiencing discrimination or witnessing such behavior in their workplace, please contact your steward or PSAC Regional Representative.  

You have the right to be politically active 

PSAC members are encouraged to exercise their rights and actively participate in democratic dialogue. Always review your workplace’s policies on political speech and social media use and raise any concerns you have with your PSAC representative.  

Under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, all workers, including  members of the federal public service, have the rights to assembly and political participation. Federal Public Service workers should be mindful that their activity does not appear to reflect on their duties or their employer, as outlined by the Public Service Commission. 

Workers should also be mindful of how their online activities may fall under the purview of the employers’ policies on social media use. Below are PSAC’s guide on expressing political opinions on social media:    

• Don’t identify yourself as a government employee or include information or comments that suggest you are a government employee 
• Be careful not to criticize government policies that are related to your job or department 
• Consider your level of visibility and influence 
• Employees who are also union representatives have greater freedom to engage in political activities when they identify themselves as such