The Black Executives Network / Le Réseau des exécutifs noirs (BEN/REN)
About
The Black Executives Network / Le Réseau des exécutifs noirs (BEN/REN), is a network formed in July 2020 to support Black executives in the federal public service, while working with the Government of Canada to address issues of systemic and anti-Black racism with a view to making the Canadian public service an institution that is representative at all levels, recognizes talent and leverages it to better serve all Canadians.
Context
The recent and recorded instances of police brutality against Black people in North America and the subsequent global outcry for racial equality and justice, juxtaposed against the UN Declaration for People of African Descent (UNDAPD) adopted by Canada, and the decades of work and sacrifice, have brought the issue of anti-Black and systemic racism to the forefront. These events have highlighted the need to accelerate progress in these areas.
The roots of anti-Black and systemic racism and discrimination in Canada run deep. As Black employees in the federal public service this is a foundational aspect of both our professional and personal lived experiences, impacting everything from career progression and representation, to our mental health. The experiences of anti-Black racism, as well as its impacts are varied. For example, Black women, Black LGBTQ2+ persons and Black persons with disabilities face further marginalization due to other forms of discrimination intersecting with racial discrimination.
Mission
The Black Executive's mission is to:
- Build and sustain a strong, inclusive and influential network of Black executives who are committed to public service excellence, sound stewardship and positive outcomes for all Canadians.
- Promote talent management by supporting, mentoring and sponsoring Black executives and aspiring executives.
- Exemplify the changes we want to effect in the FPS.
- Support the mental health and well-being of Black executives in the FPS.
Priorities
Committee Structure
BEN/REN currently has over 90 members Canada-wide with a five-member steering committee (SC) leading initiatives and engagement.
Steering Committee Members
- Tahanee McKnight, Special Advisor, Privy Council Office
- Kevin Petit-Frère, Director, Defense Construction Canada
- Hantz Prosper, Chief of Staff to the Deputy Minister, Public Services and Procurement Canada
- Richard Sharpe, Director, Department of Justice Canada
Champions
- DM Champion: Caroline Xavier, Associate Deputy Minister, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
- ADM Champion: Gail Johnson, Chief Human Resources Officer, Royal Canadian Mounted Police
DM Ally Champions
- Bill Matthews, Deputy Minister of National Defence and DM ally for the UNDPAD
- Jody Thomas, National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister
How to join
Membership in BEN/REN is open to people of African descent who are Federal Public Servant executives (at the EX 01 level and above, or are acting for one year or more in an EX position). If you fit that description, please send an email to reseaubenren@gmail.com
