British Columbia Lottery Corporation marked multiculturalism week in the province with a new program offering their employees more flexibility when it comes to taking holidays.
Corporation employees can now substitute up to six BCLC-observed statutory holidays in a calendar year for other days that have personal, cultural, or religious significance to them.
“As an employer, we recognize that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach when it comes to holidays and as our work with diversity, inclusion, and belonging moves forward, so must our approach to our practices,” said Sandy Austin, BCLC’s chief people officer. “This is another important step to build inclusive, equitable, and safe workplaces and communities and we’re encouraging other employers to reach out to us to learn more.”
One exception to the substitution of holidays is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, recognizing the legacy of the Canadian Indian residential school system – Sept. 30 of each year, which must be observed by all employees.
“This new program acknowledges the individual values and beliefs of our employees and celebrates that,” said Madhavee Inamdar, BCLC’s manager of diversity, inclusion and belonging. “We are incredibly fortunate to have such a diverse workforce and are honoring that diversity and reaffirming our commitment to fostering an inclusive culture at BCLC where all employees feel that they are seen, valued and belong.”
BCLC has dedicated itself as an organization to programs and policies directed at advancing diversity and inclusion in their organization.
BCLC delivered $1.636 billion in net income last fiscal year, with $1.624 billion delivered to the provincial government and $12 million to the federal government, according to its 2022/23 annual report.
