I am writing this in the car in front of the conference hotel. We have just wrapped up the 33rd annual ASPECT conference.

This morning, the Honourable Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, unveiled this morning BC’s very first Community Employment Service Providers Week. Yes, you read it right. We now have a week dedicated to our sector, a moment to celebrate the invaluable contributions of those who empower people in BC to secure meaningful employment and build brighter futures.
 
It states in the government proclamation:

Thousands of British Columbians reach their employment potential thanks to the support of community-based employment service providers and their significant efforts in employment services and workforce development.

We couldn’t agree more.  
 
Starting Monday, November 6 and ending on Friday, November 10, this year’s first edition of the new Community Employment Service Providers Week will be a celebration of the dedicated professionals who help job seekers find their paths to success.
 
Throughout the week, we will be showcasing people who deliver community-based employment services in BC. Join us in celebrating the inaugural Community Employment Service Providers Week and help us create a movement by sharing your success stories on social media and tagging your posts with #HumansofEmployment! 
 
Other exciting news took place this week. BC's new salary transparency law kicked in on November 1st. All publicly posted jobs in BC must now display a clear salary range with a minimum and a maximum amount. This will be a game-changer for addressing BC's gender pay gap which is currently at 17%; the largest in the country.

The Pay Transparency Act also prohibits employers from asking interviewees about their salary at previous positions. This will be good for newcomers to Canada, who may have worked for a lower salary in their previous countries where the cost of living does not compare.
 
Salary information going from a taboo topic to something that’s out in the open, now that's also something to celebrate. 

Such progress as seen recently in our sector makes me hopeful for the future. We have achieved much, and ASPECT will continue to work hard in representing, serving, and advocating on behalf of you.

Cheers to us, we deserve it!

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC