Quebec Launches Campaign to Combat Discrimination and Harassment in Construction

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A new campaign in Quebec aims to address discrimination and harassment in the construction industry, promoting a healthier work environment and supporting workforce retention.

A new initiative has been introduced in Quebec to combat discrimination and harassment within the construction sector. This awareness campaign is designed to instigate behavioral changes, create a healthier workplace atmosphere, and supply the necessary resources and support to ensure that women, individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, and young apprentices are shielded from derogatory remarks and jokes. Coordinated by the Quebec Construction Commission (QCC), this three-year initiative is a collective effort aimed at addressing the significant reasons behind the exodus of skilled workers from the construction industry.
The QCC highlights that, given the historic volume of ongoing projects in the province, it is crucial to eliminate any barriers that impede the attraction and retention of skilled labor. The need for a competent workforce that views construction as a long-term career is paramount, yet the workplace climate has been identified as a key factor contributing to the departure of workers from the field. A survey conducted by market research firm Leger in 2023 revealed that nine percent of respondents reported experiencing discrimination, intimidation, or harassment (DIH), which translates to over 20,200 individuals when extrapolated across the entire workforce. Alarmingly, 61 percent of those surveyed indicated they had faced one or more instances of DIH, with a staggering 79 percent of victims choosing not to report their experiences.
These troubling statistics disproportionately affect women, First Nations and Inuit peoples, immigrants, and visible minorities, according to the QCC. Audrey Murray, president and CEO of the commission, emphasized the shared responsibility of both employers and unions in fostering workplaces that honor the contributions of all individuals in the construction sector. "Attraction and retention of skilled workers are central to our priorities. In light of the numerous projects that the industry must undertake, decisive action towards achieving sustainable and measurable behavioral changes is essential," Murray stated.
She further noted that the construction industry should not only take pride in its physical creations but also in the proactive measures it is implementing to improve its working environment. The campaign will feature a YouTube video in French, titled "It’s just a joke," which captures genuine reactions to comments commonly heard on construction sites. This video aims to illustrate the impact such statements can have on individuals’ sense of belonging and their motivation to remain in the industry.
The initiative is structured to evolve through a gradual strategy of awareness and information dissemination. A dedicated website, zonerespect.org, has been launched, providing resources for individuals to understand the campaign, file complaints, and learn about the responsibilities of employers and unions. This site will also feature tools to help everyone within the industry foster a respectful atmosphere.
The campaign is a culmination of a consultation and mobilization process involving leaders from both employer and union sectors, building upon advancements made in recent years. The QCC asserts that a healthy workplace culture cannot merely be declared; it must be cultivated through daily interactions in which all parties assume their responsibilities and engage transparently, proactively, and respectfully.
With this campaign launch, the QCC and its industry partners reaffirm their commitment to transforming construction into a respectful work environment, where interpersonal skills are valued alongside technical expertise. The success of this collective effort will be measured by its positive influence on attracting and retaining workers. Quebec Labour Minister Jean Boulet echoed these sentiments, stating that respect must be integral to every workplace. "Every individual deserves the right to grow and work in an environment free from discrimination, intimidation, and harassment. I commend the mobilization of the QCC and all industry partners for advancing workplace practices," he remarked.
The QCC encourages employers to focus on implementing clear policies, establishing complaint resolution mechanisms, and ensuring consistent and fair management practices. Concurrently, workers are urged to adopt respectful behaviors, collaborate with colleagues, report issues, and refrain from any forms of harassment or violence. The QCC emphasizes that both employer and union associations must support their members through guidance, prevention initiatives, and awareness activities.

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