Conclusion and Recommendations This research is the conclusion of a fascinating and insightful study of Halifax’s and surrounding regions’ business community and how it relates to the diverse communities it serves, in particular communities of colour whose voice has been absent from business and other decision-making tables. The study gave participants (largely members of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce), the opportunity to reflect on and draw attention to the changing demographics, diverse cultures, and other unique opportunities businesses can draw on to make Nova Scotia more culturally diverse and economically successful. Research found there are no “one size fits all” solutions, but there is a diverse and unique collection of new and experienced business owners who are open and willing to learn. This is significant research. It is the first time in the history of the business communities in this area that they were being asked to take an in-depth look at their operations, stakeholders, and vendors, and examine supplier diversity. For many of the participants, this was an entirely new concept and way of thinking. Others who reflected on the subject were willing and open to acknowledging their lack of knowledge and experience in this area. The research also found this is a pioneering study as there is no other of its kind in North America to draw from as an example. Six months of intensive conversations with business leaders, employees, government officials, key institutions, and stakeholder communities was underpinned with a major review of current authoritative thinking and practices relating to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). This was coupled with two major surveys of business owners-managers and employees of those businesses to provide a vast body of information from businesses about their levels of awareness, statements of intent, and practices revolving around DEIA. The study found businesses are committed to addressing issues of injustice spanning all aspects of the spectrum of diversity, but urgently need further guidance and practical assistance on how to put their statements of intent into the operation of their businesses. The will is there. What is missing is how to implement it in practice.
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amplifying voices
Pat h ways Forward Re comme n dat i ons The Halifax Chamber of Commerce is uniquely placed to support and lead ever growing diverse communities in the Halifax Regional Municipality through their ongoing efforts to become a more inclusive organization and being an exemplar business leader in our community.
1.
Halifax Chamber of Commerce, in concert with other authoritative and influential agencies,needs to take a leading role in constructing a shared vision amongst key institutions and stakeholder communities, including government, in respect of DEIA in businesses. It is currently absent.
2.
Halifax Chamber of Commerce, in concert with other authoritative and influential agencies, needs to act as a clearing house repository of information and advice for businesses wishing to further ideas and practices relating to DEIA.
3.
Halifax Chamber of Commerce, as part of this repository, should have a readily accessible list of individuals and agencies with a proven track record of success in organizational change that could practically assist businesses in putting their ideas into measurable action.
4.
Halifax Chamber of Commerce, in concert with other authoritative agencies and individuals, should take a leading role in addressing how businesses can measure the success of their efforts to implement change relating to DEIA in their businesses.
5.
Halifax Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with organizations in the diverse communities of Nova Scotia, should stage a major conference on why the Amplifying Voices research project was initiated, the process that was undertaken to connect with and work with businesses during the research, the findings of the research initiative, and recommended pathways forward.
