The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) has launched an initiative allowing staff to swap up to six statutory holidays per year for dates that suit their own religious or cultural significance.
The announcement came during BCLC’s multiculturalism week and is part of a wider initiative to create a more inclusive environment for staff members to feel a greater sense of belonging.
“As an employer, we recognize that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach when it comes to holidays and as our work with diversity, inclusion and belonging moves forward, so must our approach to our practices,” said Sandy Austin, BCLC’s Chief People Officer.
“This is another important step to build inclusive, equitable and safe workplaces and communities and we’re encouraging other employers to reach out to us to learn more.”
Up to six days can be switched throughout the year for employees to celebrate religious or cultural days such as Diwali, Hanukkah or other spiritual days.
However, employees cannot substitute the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which is mandatory on September 30 and which the provincial lottery corp states matches its “commitment to lasting and meaningful reconciliation”.
“This program acknowledges the individual values and beliefs of our employees and celebrates that,” said Madhavee Inamdar, BCLC’s Manager of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have such a diverse workforce and are honoring that diversity and reaffirming our commitment to fostering an inclusive culture at BCLC where all employees feel that they are seen, valued and belong.”
