An environment where everyone belongs
At BDO we believe that Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) is a long-term commitment. Our goal is to eliminate barriers and create an environment that maximizes the contributions of everyone. In recognition of the value that people from different backgrounds and experiences bring, the firm constantly evaluates its policies and procedures to ensure diversity initiatives are incorporated fully, and seamlessly, into all aspects of our organization.
Our National Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Advisory Council
Our National Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Advisory Council’s goal is to bring a DEIA lens across all dimensions of our firm. Council members represent a broad level of experience and, together, their mandate is to assist in fostering an inclusive culture where all employees feel accepted and engaged.
How we recognize and celebrate DEIA
We want to create a belonging environment where all people can bring their genuine selves to work, participate fully, and be positioned for success. This includes recognizing and celebrating the many different communities at BDO across Canada.
Highlight of our DEIA initiatives
BDO Canada’s 2023-2028 Accessibility Plan
We are proud to share our comprehensive, multi-year plan that shares the steps we are taking to remove and reduce barriers to accessibility for persons with disabilities at BDO.
Black History Month
We explore powerful themes of Black resistance, Canadian Black history, defining tokenism and allyship, and the Black community both internally and externally.
The theme of 2024’s live event was Occupying Powerful Spaces and featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including accomplished physician, spoken word poet, and advocate for racialized and marginalized populations, Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa. The event also featured Nkechi Nwafor-Robinson, Founder and CEO of Empowered in My Skin Inc., author, professional bodybuilder, host of Empowered in My Skin podcast, and inspirational speaker.
Dr. Oriuwa and Nwafor-Robinson shared actionable strategies for transformative leadership, mental health and wellness, and how to ignite change to build a more equitable and inclusive future for all.
Through the firm’s Racialized Groups Pillar, education and allyship continue throughout the year.
International Women's Day
We celebrated International Women's Day 2023 with a webcast on the theme of #DigitALL #EmbraceEquity. The event showcased an electrifying performance by Ariel Sim, followed by an inspiring fireside chat with Bobbie Racette, an Indigenous female entrepreneur who is a trailblazer in empowering historically underrepresented communities through equitable employment opportunities.
Women at BDO also shared their stories, inspiring viewers with their remarkable achievements. The webcast ended with the announcement of the 2023 Women in Search of Excellence (WISE) Award winners.
Mental Health Awareness Month
To recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, Dr. Khush Amaria, Senior Clinical Director at MindBeacon, shared the importance of living a value-driven life and its positive effect on mental health during our firm-wide virtual event.
During the event, four courageous BDO employees shared their stories of resilience and triumph. Their willingness to share their mental health journeys and challenges were genuinely inspiring. Sharing their experiences helped break down the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraged others to seek support and understanding.
National Indigenous History Month
As we honour National Indigenous History Month, our journey towards truth and reconciliation continues. In June, we hosted a webcast to celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Indigenous peoples.
Through this webcast we had the privilege of experiencing a ceremonial smudging led by Dr. Elder Odelle Pike and hearing from Inuit throat singers sharing their talent and culture. Over the next year, additional training and interactive experiences will be held to increase awareness of the history, sacrifices, contributions, and resilience of Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is an opportunity for us to actively listen, learn, and reflect on our own roles in the journey to truth and reconciliation.
Pride Month
BDO offices nationwide tuned in to hear Tara Robertson, an advocate for driving systemic change, speak about the importance of pronouns and their impact on identities and experiences.
During the event, we also delved into the history of the LGBTQ2S+ movement, immersing ourselves in its significant milestones, enduring struggles, and inspiring triumphs. We were enlightened about the origins and evolution of the LGBTQ2S+ acronym, deepening our understanding of its inclusive nature.
Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, the band “Queer as Funk” closed the event with an incredible performance. The event also provided a safe space for our BDO people to share their personal stories, experiences, and perspectives—fostering a stronger sense of community.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
We stand united in remembrance, reflection, and unwavering commitment to continuing BDO’s journey of reconciliation.
In September, we gathered in the spirit of learning, sharing, and active listening in honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. We were honored to host Randy Elm, a Knowledge Keeper from Saddle Lake Cree Nation, who led our opening prayer and conducted a smudging ceremony. We had the privilege of welcoming Michael Etherington, who shared insights into the significance of truth and reconciliation. Michael also provided valuable guidance on the meaningful actions our firm can take on our journey towards reconciliation. We also recognized the Indigenous artists we commissioned to create beautiful designs for our orange shirt initiative: Travis Fleury, Mikaila Stevens, and Memengwaans Ireland.
The education continues through our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council’s Indigenous Peoples Pillar as they provide valuable resources and information to our people.
Disability Employment Awareness Month
In honour of Disability Employment Awareness Month, our Accessibility Consulting team hosted a webcast showcasing BDO professionals nationwide who are living with a disability or caring for someone living with a disability. The panel delved into personal experiences and offered insights on how they're redefining success every day. BDO's Accessibility Consulting team also shared tips and best practices to enhance accessibility within the firm.
Our firm is committed to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and prioritizes fostering ongoing education and awareness to cultivate a more inclusive workplace.