The Ontario Broker - Volume 23, Issue 3 - 49

WHAT'S NEW
Embracing Diversity and Inclusion
Spotlight on LINK Canada's 2SLGBTQ+ Insurance Network
With Christopher Aloussis, Co-Chair, LINK Canada
Navigating the insurance industry as a 2SLGBTQ+
professional presents a unique set of challenges. People within this
community must think about the daunting task of coming out in a
professional setting, confront hiring and promotion biases that can hinder
career growth, and can face microaggressions and isolation.
LINK Canada's 2SLGBTQ+ Insurance Network-a non-profit
organization dedicated to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion
(DEI) within the Canadian insurance market-recognizes these, and
other challenges, and is committed to addressing them head-on. By
championing allies and fostering understanding, the organization aims to
make the industry a more inclusive and welcoming space.
" The biggest initiative for LINK Canada this year is to bring about a
spotlight on these issues, " explained Christopher Aloussis, Co-Chair of
LINK Canada. " Creating visibility and having sponsor organizations show
support for 2SLGBTQ+ issues creates a sense of belonging and inclusion
in the workplace. Overall, this will improve employee engagement,
retention and diversity in the workplace. "
The organization's journey began a year prior to its official launch
in January 2023. The idea was conceived as a natural progression from
the success of LINK UK. With a carefully selected team of passionate
individuals with strong connections to the LINK UK leadership team,
LINK Canada embarked on its mission to effect transformative change in
the Canadian market.
" Canada was the first country selected by the LINK UK team for
expansion, " explained Christopher. " A small group was selected to lead
LINK Canada because of our close relationship to the LINK UK leadership
team, and our group worked hard to develop a strategy to effect the
change we want to bring to the Canadian market. "
LINK Canada has not only recognized the need for change but has also
taken substantial steps to initiate it, and have been rolling out programs,
resources and events over the last few months. Recently, they hosted the
Pride 2023: Coming Out party, a landmark event that brought together
2SLGBTQ+ insurance professionals and allies for an inclusive networking
experience. This event marked the beginning of a series of celebrations
aimed at fostering a sense of unity and acceptance.
" This was an inclusive networking event where members of the
2SLGBTQ+ insurance community and allies could celebrate each other
and help to promote ideas around community building and showcase the
insurance industry as a place where acceptance and tolerance are part of
the fabric of the workplace, " Aloussis explained. " We had an incredible
turn out and are looking forward to promoting more of these types of
events in the coming months and years. "
They also partnered with the Get Real movement, offering sponsors
the chance to enroll their employees in DEI workshops. These workshops
cover 2SLGBTQ+ issues and intersectionality, driving awareness and
understanding within the industry.
One of LINK Canada's proudest accomplishments is the launch of
the industry's first DEI education portal. This platform offers RIBOaccredited
courses that provide insights into the issues faced by the
2SLGBTQ+ community. Education is the foundation for change, and LINK
Canada is paving the way for a more informed and empathetic industry.
Through partnerships with influential organizations and industry leaders,
LINK Canada is not only raising awareness but driving meaningful change.
By embracing diversity and inclusion, the insurance industry is poised to
become a more vibrant, innovative, and equitable space for everyone.
How to Create a More Inclusive Environment for
2SLGBTQ+ Employees and Customers
* Offer LGBTQ+ training and sensitivity workshops for all
employees to increase awareness and understanding of
LGBTQ+ issues, terminology and challenges. This helps create
a more empathetic and supportive work environment.
* Establish LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
to provide a safe space for networking, support and
advocacy within the company. Support these groups with
resources and opportunities for leadership development.
* Review and update benefits and services plans to ensure
they're inclusive of LGBTQ+ families and relationships.
Offer benefits that cover same-sex partners and genderaffirming
care.
* Promote and celebrate 2SLGBTQ+ representation at all
levels of the organization through hiring and promotional
practices. Visible representation can help promote a
sense of belonging and inspire others.
* Engage with 2SLGBTQ+ Organizations or community
groups to support local events, fundraisers and initiatives.
* Cultivate allyship by encouraging employees to
become allies and advocates for LGBTQ+ colleagues and
customers. Allyship can be fostered through training and
awareness campaigns.
Volume 23 | Issue 3
49
The Ontario Broker - Volume 23, Issue 3

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of The Ontario Broker - Volume 23, Issue 3
