CIF-IFC, CSI launch microsite to promote equity and diversity in forestry

The Canadian Institute of Forestry / Institute forestier du Canada (CIF-IFC) and the Centre for Social Intelligence (CSI) are pleased to announce the official launch of Free to Grow in Forestry, a microsite that communicates to all stakeholders in the forest sector the resources developed through the Gender Equity in Canada’s Forest Sector National Action Plan.

The National Action Plan is a three-year initiative spearheaded by the CIF-IFC and the CSI, with strategic guidance from a National Steering Committee of forest sector leaders from government, industry, academia, Indigenous, and non-profit organizations to achieve gender equality and meaningful inclusion of women, Indigenous peoples, and new Canadians at all levels, from technical to executive level positions, in the forest sector. The Free to Grow in Forestry microsite is a culmination of this effort and will share the actions undertaken in this initiative including, but not limited to, communication “shareables” that individuals and organizations are encouraged to utilize in their spheres of influence.

“With labour market demands mounting and an ever increasing globally competitive market, the forest sector must look for ways to remain competitive and thrive,” said Luc M. Rainville, past president, CIF-IFC.

“Working together across the sector is a transformational approach to affecting change on diversity and inclusion. Not only will the workplace culture see benefits, organizations can expect to see an improvement in the bottom line,” said Kelly Cooper, CEO and founder, CSI. “Together we can make a difference.”

The new Free to Grow in Forestry microsite (www.freetogrowinforestry.ca) is officially live, and provides a place where you can learn more about the initiative, the National Steering Committee and Sub-Committee partners, find resources, and take action. Stay connected by following Free to Grow in Forestry on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn, or subscribing to the email list. Help spread the word by using the hashtag #ForestryForward.

Formed in 1908, the CIF-IFC is the national voice of forest practitioners and many others with an interest in forestry and forests. The Institute strives to provide national leadership, promote competence, and foster public awareness of Canadian and international forestry/forest issues.