How Sodexo is Creating an Inclusive Workplace for Gender-Diverse Employees

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For the most part, transgender and non-binary people have learned to think outside the box. To live their lives in line with their true selves, transgender and non-binary individuals cultivate the virtues of adaptability and creativity. Their resiliency and ability to see the world from a distinct perspective can make them valuable additions to any progressive organization. 

Unfortunately, this is not always reflected in the modern workplace. According to “Integrating Trans People into the Workplace,” an information guide published by the Fondation Émergence in partnership with the ATQ, though 71% of transgender people have a college or university degree, 50% have an annual income of less than $15 000$. But everyone deserves to live their truth and live it well, and a large part of living a stable life is stable employment.

Sodexo Pride Canada is honoured to announce the launch of “Transitioning at Work,” a new guidebook for managers, following the inclusion of gender-affirming care as part of Sodexo Canada’s benefits package as of July 1, 2024. Sodexo is committed to creating an inclusive workspace for transgender and non-binary people, and that starts with active involvement from management. 

At Sodexo, we believe in fostering an inclusive workplace where our employees feel valued and supported. By including gender-affirming care in our benefits package, we are ensuring that all our team members, regardless of gender identity, have access to the resources they need to thrive both personally and professionally. This commitment to comprehensive healthcare reflects our ongoing dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion in everything we do.

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Leena VermaVice President - Human Resources, Sodexo Canada

A Better Everyday for Everyone

Improving the quality of life of employees and clients has always been at the center of Sodexo’s mission. In many cases, Gender Affirming Care is lifesaving, and Sodexo Canada is thrilled to be setting an example by cultivating compassion within the food service industry through thoughtful and empathic leadership. 

Sodexo Canada is proud to lead with purpose by embracing diversity and inclusivity at every level. Incorporating gender-affirming care into our benefits package is a vital step in ensuring that our employees feel respected and supported in their journeys. We are committed to creating a workplace where everything can bring their whole, authentic selves to work, knowing that managers and leadership stand behind them with the care and resources they deserve.

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Johanne R. BélangerChief Executive Officer, Sodexo Canada

Leading By Example

We encourage our leaders and managers to familiarize themselves with the new “Transitioning at Work” guidebook to better support their teams, colleagues, and friends. It is important to be proactive and support employees during their transition, and crucial for employers to demonstrate and clearly communicate to employees that transphobia and other forms of bullying towards transgender people will not be tolerated in the workplace.  

For those transitioning at work and to our transgender and non-binary colleagues, we see you, we support you, you are valid, and you belong.  

Find out more about how Sodexo Canada advocates for diverse sexual orientations and gender identity.