Actuality¹⁵⁹

This image clearly illustrates the permeability of our ideological boundaries, especially in times of political turmoil. And that is exactly what has been happening since the “Trump virus” resurfaced in Washington.

We are privileged to live in a society that values openness, equality, and respect for differences. These values are not incidental: they are the foundation of our collective identity. But this foundation is more fragile than we think.

Even if some believe we are immune thanks to our deeply rooted principles, the influence of the United States on our social and corporate policies is very real. Equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) policies, although widely supported here, are no exception.

Several American companies have been forced to abandon their EDI commitments under pressure from conservative political forces. As highlighted in the article published in Le Devoir, the situation is different in Canada. The subsidiaries of these companies are seeking to reassure consumers while juggling legal compliance and consistency with their deeply held beliefs.

This is just one example of the ideological turmoil that threatens to shake our society under the influence of our southern neighbors. Why wait until our foundations are weakened before reacting? Whether it's sustainable development, gender equality, democracy, or freedom of expression, our principles must be defended with consistency and conviction.

That is why I believe it is time to build an ideological wall, not to isolate ourselves, but to protect what unites us.

This bulwark is one of vigilance, commitment, and collective action. And to build it solidly, we must act on several fronts, including:

• Legislate: It is essential that governments strengthen legal frameworks that govern not only EDI policies, but also those related to measures that promote socio-ecological transition and ensure conditions that promote well-being at work. Ambitious, clear, and binding laws are needed to protect people's rights, the environment, and the principles of inclusion.

• Create incentives: Companies that adopt corporate policies aligned with our values should be recognized and encouraged. This can take the form of tax breaks, certifications that are valued in public tenders, or sector-specific recognition programs.

In Quebec, several certifications enable companies to demonstrate their commitment:

• Healthy Enterprise – CAN/BNQ 9700-800 standard, which places employee well-being at the heart of the strategy;

• B Corp, which attests to social and environmental responsibility;

• 5-Star Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Employer, awarded by Canadian HR Reporter, which recognizes exemplary EDI policies.

But the government cannot act alone. Local businesses have a key role to play in defending our values. They must make these fundamental principles the cornerstones of their vision, practices, and internal culture.

More than ever, young business leaders aspire to build a future that reflects their values, based on fairness, responsibility, and innovation. At the Junior Chamber of Commerce of Montreal, we have the vision, the ideas, and the will to act. Through our strategic priorities, we are a catalyst for change.

To transform this will into sustainable action, we need collective momentum. It is essential that every company, every leader, and every citizen commit to defending the values that define us.

EDI is not a trend. Sustainability is not an option. Well-being at work is not a luxury. These are the pillars of a strong, fair, and resilient society.

Together, let us assert our convictions loud and clear. Together, let us build a bold, inclusive, and sustainable economy. An economy that reflects who we are.

• Entreprise en santé – Norme CAN/BNQ 9700-800, qui place le bien-être des employés au cœur de la stratégie;

• B Corp, qui atteste de la responsabilité sociétale et environnementale;

• 5-Star Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Employer, décernée par Canadian HR Reporter, qui récompense les politiques d’EDI exemplaires.

Mais le gouvernement ne peut agir seul. Les entreprises d’ici ont un rôle de premier plan à jouer dans la défense de nos valeurs. Elles doivent faire de ces principes fondamentaux des piliers de leur vision, de leurs pratiques et de leur culture interne.

La jeunesse d’affaires aspire plus que jamais à construire un avenir à son image, fondé sur l’équité, la responsabilité et l’innovation. À la Jeune Chambre de commerce de Montréal, nous avons la vision, les idées et la volonté d’agir. Par nos priorités stratégiques, nous sommes un catalyseur de changement.

Pour transformer cette volonté en mouvement durable, il faut un élan collectif. Il est essentiel que chaque entreprise, chaque leader, chaque citoyen.ne s’engage à défendre les valeurs qui nous définissent.

L'EDI n’est pas une mode. La durabilité n’est pas une option. Le bien-être au travail n’est pas un luxe. Ce sont les piliers d’une société forte, juste et résiliente.

Ensemble, affirmons haut et fort nos convictions. Ensemble, bâtissons une économie audacieuse, inclusive et durable. Une économie qui nous ressemble.