Who does the federal Employment Equity Act apply to?

The federal Employment Equity Act applies primarily to federally-regulated employers and organizations that have over 100 employees. This legislation is designed to promote equal opportunities for specific groups who have historically faced disadvantages in the workplace, including women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minorities. By mandating these employers to take proactive measures to achieve equitable representation, the Act aims to create a fairer work environment across Canada.

The criteria that focus on federally-regulated employers and those with larger workforces reflect the intention to address systemic barriers within substantial organizations that have the capacity to implement equity strategies effectively. This enhances the overall objective of the Act, which is to foster diversity and eliminate discrimination in the workplace.

In contrast, the other options are limited in scope. Governmental agencies are included under the umbrella of federally-regulated employers, but the Act encompasses a broader range of organizations beyond just government entities. Similarly, not all companies in Canada fall under the provisions of the Employment Equity Act since it specifically targets federated entities and those meeting the employee threshold. Lastly, non-profit organizations may or may not be subject to the Act, depending on their size and whether they operate federally, thus making the exclusive focus on non-profits inaccurate.