CGI’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) program aims to create an inclusive working environment where everyone has the opportunity to contribute to our success. We recognize the richness that diversity brings to our company as we serve our clients, develop awareness and create leadership roles for our professionals.
Black History Month (BHM) reminds us how individual and collective achievements of a group of people can contribute to a wider culture as a whole. It is officially observed during the month of February in the U.S. and Canada, and every October in other countries including the UK, Ireland and the Netherlands.
BHM was created not only to educate, but also to honor achievements and recognize the significant contributions of the Black communities in our history.
Black History Month initiatives across CGI
Affinity groups in our U.S. and Canada offices, called Black Member Alliance and Black, Asian, Indigenous and Minorities (BAIM) Network, respectively, have been established to promote awareness and empower CGI professionals. In February, these groups organized several activities that helped our professionals learn more about BHM and how CGI creates a diverse and inclusive culture in the workplace.
In Canada, the BAIM Network hosted an event with BHM pioneers, the Honorable Jean Augustine and Rosemary Sadlier, the two women who designated the annual national event in Canada.
A panel discussion was also held to talk about how our professionals can have meaningful and respectful conversations on race and how awareness of different experiences can be raised through interracial discussions.
In the U.S., a live panel shared how our professionals recognize differences and commit to equity in the workplace to build a stronger CGI. The panel covered the importance of career support, ways to address challenges, learning and career paths, and strategies to mentor young students of color interested in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
To further highlight and recognize our Black professionals and the people who inspire them, our U.S. operations also shared profile videos in our Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook channels as part of our #LifeAtCGI social media campaign.
