Respecting Trans Gender Diversity in the Workplace: What HR Needs to Know
30
Jun 2023
337
Author: Central Alberta Chapter Committee
2SLGBTQI+ (Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and additional sexually and gender diverse people in Canada) Pride Month is celebrated in June and this month, the Central Alberta CPHR Volunteer Chapter wished to focus on supporting and respecting Trans Gender Diversity in the Workplace. We asked, how can we ensure we create inclusive practice and through our research and dialogue, are there additional resources we can provide to CPHR members in Alberta to assist in this endeavor?
Inclusive Communication:
In many organizations, HR has the responsibility to build a culture and environment of inclusivity and respect, that assists in the growth of the employees. When developing an inclusive language strategy, it is important to understand how employees communicate with one another and you must be aware of how communication, written and oral, can impact someone’s view of the workplace.
Inclusive communication is about focusing on recognizing, understanding and responding to various backgrounds and identities. It goes beyond communication, it’s about listening and being empathetic and having an open mind to other people’s perspectives, feelings and experiences.
In many organizations, HR has the responsibility to build a culture and environment of inclusivity and respect, that assists in the growth of the employees. When developing an inclusive language strategy, it is important to understand how employees communicate with one another and you must be aware of how communication, written and oral, can impact someone’s view of the workplace.
Inclusive communication is about focusing on recognizing, understanding and responding to various backgrounds and identities. It goes beyond communication, it’s about listening and being empathetic and having an open mind to other people’s perspectives, feelings and experiences.
Creating inclusive communication does not need to be expensive or difficult. Some simple tips to using more inclusive communication, organizations can consider the following:
- Listen to multiple perspectives and create a safe space for others.
- Promote inclusive language when referring to gender, race, ethnicity or religion
- Be adaptable in your communication style
- Implement DEI committees and consider inclusive policies and recruitment strategies to attract and retain people with different backgrounds and experiences.
- Provide training on inclusive communication and recognizing bias
How Leadership can support Transgender Diversity in the Workplace
As organizations strive to foster inclusive environments, it is essential to address the specific needs and challenges faced by transgender individuals in the workplace. By embracing transgender diversity and implementing supportive policies, leaders can create an inclusive culture that values and empowers every employee. Below are a few practical ways that leadership can support transgender individuals.
Establishing Inclusive Policies and Practices:
Developing and implementing inclusive policies that protect and support transgender employees requires the support of Leadership. Some areas to consider having policies and/or guidelines include, gender identity and expression, restroom and changing facilities access, dress code, and preferred name and pronoun usage. Something as simple as swapping out ‘he/she’ language in policies, procedures, or job postings and replacing it with gender neutral language like ‘employees' or ‘individuals' can make a big difference.
It is also important to have policies that clearly state that discrimination, harassment or any form of prejudice against individuals will not be tolerated. By ensuring the presence of clear guidelines that respect and affirm transgender individuals, and by holding all employees accountable for maintaining a respectful workplace, leadership can create a safe and inclusive environment for all employees.
Educating and Raising Awareness:
Leadership should actively promote education and awareness regarding transgender issues within the organization. This can involve training programs or workshops to educate employees about transgender identities, terminology, and the challenges faced by transgender individuals. By fostering a culture of understanding and empathy, leadership can create an environment where transgender employees feel accepted, respected, and supported.
Providing Support and Resources:
Leadership should ensure that appropriate resources and support networks are available to assist transgender employees throughout their journey. This can involve offering access to gender-affirming healthcare benefits, counseling services, or partnering with external organizations specializing in transgender support. By providing a supportive framework, leadership helps transgender employees navigate their professional and personal lives with confidence.
Building an Ally Network:
Leadership can foster an inclusive culture by encouraging the formation of ally networks within the organization. These networks provide a platform for employees to engage, support, and advocate for transgender individuals. By empowering allies and encouraging their active participation, leadership demonstrates its commitment to transgender diversity and creates a strong support system within the workplace.
Resources and Support for 2SKLGBTQIA+ in Alberta
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Calgary Sexual Health Centre: The Calgary Sexual Health Centre provides education, counseling, and support services related to sexual health and wellbeing. They offer inclusive services for the LGBTQ+ community. Visit their website at: https://www.centreforsexuality.ca/
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Skipping Stone Foundation: The Skipping Stone Foundation supports transgender and gender diverse youth and their families. They provide resources, programs, and services aimed at improving the well-being and empowerment of the community. Check out their website at: https://skippingstone.ca/
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Alberta Trans Support: Alberta Trans Support is an organization that provides support, resources, and advocacy for transgender and gender diverse individuals in Alberta. Their website is: https://transwellnessinitiative.ca/alberta-trans-health-network/
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Camp fYrefly: Camp fYrefly is a leadership retreat for LGBTQ+ and allied youth. It offers a safe and inclusive space for personal growth, community building, and empowerment. For more information, visit their website: https://www.fyrefly.ualberta.ca/
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Alberta LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce: The Alberta LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce supports LGBTQ+ businesses and professionals in the province. They provide networking opportunities, resources, and a directory of LGBTQ+-owned businesses. You can find more information on their website: https://ab-lgbtq.ca/
Want to learn more? Check out the many Pride Events offered in Alberta this summer.
The views and opinions expressed in this blog post belong solely to the original author(s) and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of CPHR Alberta.
The views and opinions expressed in this blog post belong solely to the original author(s) and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of CPHR Alberta.
Author: Calgary Chapter Committee The political climate has become an undeniable force in our lives, influencing not only public discourse but also personal well-being. Whether it is uncertainty surrounding federal policies, international conflicts, or provincial conversations about autonomy, employees are increasingly bringing political anxiety into the workplace. For HR professionals, this growing tension presents unique challenges. The task is not to take sides, but to foster environments where mental health is supported and respectful dialogue can take place. According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, political anxiety is not a passing trend. It is a persistent stressor with real consequences for how individuals feel and function at work. The Commission highlights how political stress mimics other forms of chronic anxiety, causing sleep disturbances, irritability, and a sense of hopelessness ( MHCC, 2024 ). Constant exposure to polarizing news and divisive topics can leave employees feeling overwhelmed. This emotional fatigue, if left unaddressed, affects focus, performance, and team dynamics. A recent CBC feature underscores the cumulative effect of ongoing political and economic instability. It describes how stress can build over time, eroding emotional resilience and making it harder for people to manage conflict, remain productive, or feel safe expressing themselves ( CBC, 2023 ). These dynamics are not just playing out in public forums; they are showing up in team meetings, informal conversations, and leadership decisions. HR professionals often find themselves at the intersection of these pressures. They are expected to support others while managing their own reactions to difficult news and evolving policies. They are tasked with implementing wellness strategies, fostering respectful communication, and ensuring compliance with changing legislation. It is a complex and emotionally demanding role. However, there are practical ways HR professionals can help reduce the burden of political anxiety in the workplace. The goal is not to suppress conversation, but to provide thoughtful, respectful guidance and tools that help people navigate uncertainty together. 1. Normalize the Conversation Begin by acknowledging that political stress exists and can impact work. A short message in a wellness newsletter or internal briefing can go a long way. When people feel that their experience is valid, they are more likely to seek help and less likely to internalize stress. Headspace, a leader in workplace wellness, emphasizes that validating emotions is a foundational step in reducing their intensity ( Headspace, 2024 ). 2. Communicate Proactively and Clearly When organizations face potential impacts from political or economic changes, silence can worsen fear. Clear, honest communication builds trust. The Mental Health Commission of Canada cites a national survey in which over half of respondents said that uncertainty was more stressful than bad news itself ( MHCC, 2024 ). Leaders should not speculate, but they should share what is known and outline the steps being taken to support employees. 3. Expand Mental Health Support Ensure that all employees know how to access support, whether through an employee assistance program, mental health benefits, or external community resources. Consider adding or promoting mindfulness programs, mental health first-aid training, or virtual therapy services. Managers in particular need support, as they are often the first people employees turn to during moments of stress. 4. Provide Strategies to Employees for Managing Political Anxiety in the Workplace Limit news exposure to reduce anxiety and protect mental health through digital detoxes. Highlight shared values such as respect, integrity and collaboration to help anchor people – reinforce a strong organizational culture rooted in community. Encourage volunteering and community engagement to restore control and purpose, which are critical to mental well-being. Support ongoing self-care and stress management practices. 5. Reinforce Respectful Conduct and Psychological Safety Review your organization’s code of conduct, respectful workplace policies, and social media guidelines. Ensure that employees understand expectations around respectful communication. Reinforce that differing opinions are welcome, but harassment or retaliation are never acceptable. A psychologically safe workplace benefits everyone by fostering trust, encouraging open communication, and enhancing overall productivity and well-being. 6. Equip Managers with Tools Offer training for people leaders on how to recognize signs of stress and respond with empathy. Provide scripts or toolkits for addressing politically charged questions in a way that keeps conversations respectful and focused on shared purpose. HR professionals do not need to have all the answers to the political questions of the day. Their role is to create structures that protect employee well-being and promote a respectful, inclusive workplace. By encouraging open dialogue, providing clear communication, and expanding access to wellness resources, HR leaders can reduce the impact of political uncertainty and help their teams thrive. As the landscape continues to evolve, it is critical to stay grounded in compassion and clarity. Utilizing the above tools and strategies, HR professionals can be a steady and reassuring presence for their organizations in uncertain times.
Every mentorship match has the potential to create a ripple – one that extends far beyond the program itself. In our January–June 2025 intake, the CPHR Alberta Mentorship Program received over 225 applications across four unique streams, resulting in 100 mentor-protégé pairings, 17 peer matches, and 7 student group cohorts. This momentum reflects the strength of our HR community and its commitment to shared growth and learning. This year, we invited participants to reflect on three powerful questions: How has this mentorship experience shaped your perspective, and how do you plan to share the wisdom you’ve gained with others in our community? How will participation in the mentorship program create a wave in your career and support the impact you leave on your workplace and broader community? What has been your 'golden nugget' from this experience that will leave a lasting ripple in your career? Their responses were as thoughtful as they were inspiring. Testimonial #1 One of the main benefits of mentoring relationships, aside from the enjoyment of getting to know a colleague, is the ability to consider current situations I am dealing with in light of the other person's experiences. Often, these relationships help me with fresh insights I can use to benefit my team and organization. Over the past few years, I have enjoyed the mentorship program, and have taken the opportunity to encourage others to consider the benefits of the program when chatting at CPHR functions, etc. - Bob Wiebe Testimonial #2 Through participation in the CPHR Alberta Mentorship Program, my sense of belonging in the profession has grown and I have gained a personal sense of connection to the community of practice that spurs me to continue to professionally grow to enable others to find their voice and professional belonging in our community to leave a lasting impact. - Amanda Van Haaften Testimonial #3 My golden nugget from this experience has been the realization of how powerful intentional communication and active listening can be in building trust and relationships, solving problems, and influencing outcomes. This insight has shifted how I approach conversations—whether with colleagues, clients, or leaders. It’s a simple concept, but its impact is lasting. - Archana Malhotra Throughout the intake, our Mentorship Committee stayed meaningfully connected with participants through support groups, live webinars, monthly mentoring e-newsletters, and on-demand micro-sessions – with more to come. Each touchpoint offered space to pause, reflect, and grow – together. Mentorship is never one-directional – it’s a cycle of giving, learning, and leading. We’re thrilled to welcome our new applicants for the upcoming intake and continue building a community rooted in connection and growth. Whether you're a mentor or protégé, you’ll gain valuable insights, meaningful relationships, and the chance to leave a lasting impact.
Internal controls are not just a box on a checklist; they are a trust-building tool. When HR leads with transparency, integrity, and strong processes, it sends the message that the organization values trust and accountability. Internal controls can also protect against errors, fraud, and damage to its reputation. Internal controls support fair hiring, secure data management, and consistent documentation, helping HR stay aligned with laws, privacy standards, and compliance expectations. What are internal controls? Internal controls are an organization’s procedures, policies, and processes. They ensure: Compliance with laws, regulations, and policy Accuracy in reporting Overall efficiency and transparency in operations Internal controls include setting out approval authority, role-based system access, audit trails, and segregation of duties. Once your controls are in place, continuous monitoring them further reduce risk by identifying issues early and providing timely feedback on areas where additional training may be needed. Examples of HR internal controls and why an accountant might consider them important Hiring Background checks ensure individuals hired to handle sensitive data don’t have histories of financial misconduct Signed employment agreements support key inputs into the payroll process and can serve as audit documentation Approval workflow for hiring decisions help prevent unauthorized payroll expense s Payroll Segregation of duties between the person hiring and the person setting up payroll can prevent conflicts of interest and fraud Reconciliations of payroll reports with HR records help ensure records match the source data, which supports accurate financial reporting Compensation An assignment of authority for employee events (e.g., salary change, promotions) ensures changes are authorized and reduces the risk of unauthorized payments Supervisor approval on timecards ensures information sent to payroll is accurate Employee records Secure employee records ensure payroll, benefits, and compensation figures used in financial reporting are reliable and safe Tracking changes made to records provides a trail for internal and external auditors Policy and compliance Key company policies requiring an employee’s signature can mitigate financial risks and ensure employees are expected to be aware of an organization’s policies A whistleblower policy provides a mechanism to uncover fraud or misappropriation of an organization’s assets Access and data controls Role-based access to systems limits access to financial systems and reduces the risk of data manipulation Monitoring controls Exception reporting (e.g., duplicate payments) supports quick identification of errors and accuracy of financial reporting Internal HR audits help ensure HR-related financial activities have proper controls and the controls are working as designed By having an HR department that designs and implements internal controls, you are creating a stable system of checks and balances, minimizing risk in more ways than you might expect! About the author: Kristy Mielke CPA, CA fosters the professional growth of Alberta’s 32,000 Chartered Professional Accountants (CPAs) as the Director of Professional Development and Learning at CPA Alberta. She has previously worked in public practice and internal audit, and in addition to being a CPA, she is a Certified Internal Auditor and Certified Fraud Examiner.
