News Diversity & Inclusion
50 businesses now ‘Rainbow Registered’ under program by LGBT+ chamber

Canada’s LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) recently announced that 50 Canadian businesses have signed up to become the first-ever Rainbow Registered accredited companies, only one month after the program launched.

The Rainbow Registered program is designed to help consumers and prospective employees more easily identify LGBT+ friendly businesses across Canada. It launched at a time when Canadian consumers are demanding businesses step up efforts on inclusivity.

Organizations including the W Toronto Hotel, Tourism Kingston and Medlior Health Outcomes Research are among the first to submit their applications, according to a press release.

“There have always been companies who lead by example and demonstrate their values and allyship in authentic ways, so we knew the program would be well received. However, we’re exceeding our expectations and I believe that’s in part due to consumers demanding more representation and are looking to support organizations whose values align with their own,” said Darrell Schuurman, CEO of the LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce in Toronto.

“We’re so proud of these first 50 businesses who jumped on the opportunity to affirm their position on LGBT+ rights and to work on developing a clear action plan that will contribute to a more equitable future.”

Rainbow registry raises the bar

The program lays a rigorous set of standards that companies must meet before earning the Rainbow Registered mark and the benefits that go along with it.

The standards focus on four key areas including policies and practices, training, commitment to inclusive leadership and a culture of inclusivity.

The program starts by encouraging businesses to look inwards, examining how they are operating and doing business, finding areas that may be perpetuating unconscious bias, then working closely with CGLCC to forge a path forward to becoming more inclusive.

Businesses must complete a simple multi-step application process. If all standards are met in four categories, successful businesses can then promote themselves as a Rainbow Registered organization, access CGLCC member benefits, and be included in the Rainbow Registered business directory for consumers.