Queen’s employees are making themselves count. Eighty-three per cent of the 4,073 employees who received the I Count Queen’s Equity Census in October 2011 returned it by early January.

“The response rate for the survey has been fantastic,” says Irène Bujara, Director, Equity and Human Rights Offices. “It shows that Queen’s employees want to be counted.”

The survey data will help Equity Office staff compile workforce representation figures and develop and monitor employment equity programs. It will also allow them to identify areas where changes in policies, practices and systems are likely to be most effective for achieving fairness in employment equity.

The October census was the first census to include questions on sexual orientation and gender identity. These figures will be released when the census closes at the end of January.

In February, the Equity Office will launch the Employment Equity Listserv. This new initiative is a monthly, electronic, communication tool designed to disseminate information, promote communication and foster interdisciplinary links between Queen’s employees and designated equity groups in the areas of employment equity and diversity. Close to 500 people indicated their interest in subscribing to the listserv when completing the census.

Fill out your I Count Queen’s Equity Census using your NetID and password before the deadline of January 31, 2012.To be added to the Employment Equity Listserv, email equity@queensu.ca.