Representatives from the PEI Public Service Commission and the Diversity Advisory Committee recently presented the Diversity Works 2010 calendar to Premier Robert Ghiz in Charlottetown.
The calendar is produced annually as a way of recognizing and celebrating diversity in the public service. This is the seventh edition and it continues to grow in popularity among public service employees and community groups. Featuring a collection of photographs of public sector employees representing various departments, divisions, trades and professions, the “Diversity Works” calendar has been a popular promotional strategy.
Elements of diversity can include the many ways people identify as members of a group who have similar experiences. Designated diversity groups can include, but are not limited to, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, Aboriginal peoples, and women or men in non-traditional occupations. Diversity can also include many aspects of social and cultural identities such as ethnic origins, traditions, cultural values, age, gender, thinking styles, sexual orientation, income level, educational level, etc.
In 1998, the PEI Civil Service Act was amended to foster the development of a public service that is representative of the Island population it serves. Adopted in 2002, the PEI Public Service Diversity Policy guides departments and agencies to implement diversity strategies providing a positive and welcoming work environment which recognizes and respects the diversity of employees. “It is important for the PEI Public Service to create a workforce that values diversity,” said Premier Ghiz.