Transformative Training: Embracing Human Rights in Business

In a world that can feel both more connected and more divided than ever, fostering a sense of belonging within organizations is an urgent priority for many businesses throughout the prairies. As an employer, you may often find yourself contemplating how to create an environment where your employees and your customers all feel that they truly belong. One powerful avenue is through professional development focused on human rights. 

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR), located in Winnipeg, offers both practical training and deep insights to help organizations navigate today’s complex social climate. The CMHR uses a unique storytelling approach and offers a full complement of professional development programs that can be customized to give you a competitive and compassionate edge. Whether it’s trying to reduce polarization around the watercooler or making sure that important decisions are being made with many perspectives and voices around the table, the CMHR’s education programs can help your team take steps that positively impact business.

Understanding human rights and inclusion

At the heart of human rights is a simple yet profound truth: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” This fundamental principle, drawn from the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, lays the groundwork to help your organization promote belonging and reduce disruption. But even if you’re convinced your employees would benefit from human rights training, it can be hard to know where to start. 

“I have spoken with many leaders in the private sector who know their success relies on attracting and retaining the best and brightest, and making sure that every employee comes to work with a sense of pride and belonging,” said Riva Harrison, VP of Education and Public Affairs. “The question then becomes how–—and that’s where the Canadian Museum for Human Rights offers the answer.”

The business benefits of training

Investing in human rights training isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also good for business as studies have shown consumers care about company culture and values. Organizations that foster belonging are often seen as more socially responsible and ethically sound, attracting a broader base of customers and investors. Other benefits may include:

• Enhanced Innovation and Problem-Solving: Teams that understand different perspectives are better able to drive groundbreaking ideas and solutions. Training at the CMHR empowers employees to leverage this diversity, fostering collaboration and creativity in tackling complex challenges; thus, giving organizations a competitive advantage by harnessing the ingenuity of their team.

• Increased Productivity and Performance: An inclusive work environment is a significant driver of productivity and overall financial success. Equipping employees with the tools to foster an atmosphere of acceptance and belonging will increase efficiency
and effectiveness.

• Enhanced Talent Attraction and Retention: Companies that prioritize foundational human rights learning appeal to a broader pool of job seekers. By partnering with the CMHR for professional development, organizations can create workplaces where employees feel valued, leading to lower turnover rates and reducing retraining costs.

• Improved Customer Satisfaction: A diverse workforce is better equipped to understand and meet the varied needs of a broader customer base, translating to heightened customer satisfaction and loyalty.

• Reduced Workplace Conflict: Effective training fosters understanding between employees, reducing conflict and misconduct in the workplace, and avoiding the loss of talented team members and the need to navigate complicated HR issues.

Strong, foundational learning

To navigate complex societal issues, it helps to create a better understanding of human rights. The CMHR’s distinctive approach to professional development, which deepens knowledge of human rights principles, provides teachings that are different and more broadly-based than typical diversity, equality, and inclusion training.

“In these polarized times, we know there are people who are feeling left behind, and this can be disruptive in a workplace,” explains Lise Pinkos, Director of Education at the CMHR. “By emphasizing dignity and human rights for all, we provide individuals and organizations the confidence to engage in difficult conversations and create inclusive spaces.”

A proven approach—engaging educational programs and workshops

At the core of the CMHR’s work is a diverse range of educational offerings designed to meet the urgent needs of today’s workplaces. Every week, organizations—ranging from corporations and educational institutions to non-profits—turn to the CMHR for human rights professional development. Currently, the museum works with growing number of employees from over 1,000 organizations every year. 

These educational programs vary in scope and intensity, catering to participants at any stage of their human rights learning journey. Whether it’s a one-time 60-minute session to multi-day programming, the CMHR will work with organizations to meet their unique needs.

“Our programs are designed to meet people where they are on their educational journey,” notes Pinkos. “No matter your starting point, we work together to promote a deeper understanding of human rights.” 

A growing need for human rights education

As global crises and social injustices increasingly affect workplace dynamics, the necessity for human rights education becomes clear. The CMHR is not only a resource but also a trusted partner in the quest to build inclusive organizations. Each program is tailored to adapt to individual and organizational journeys in human rights.

“We are experiencing increased demand from companies and organizations who call us and ask if we can help bring this type of knowledge to their employees,” Harrison notes. “With nearly a decade of collaboration with Canadian businesses to our advantage, we are well positioned to expand our offerings and delve deeper into helping companies and organizations thrive.”

A vision for a just future where everyone thrives

The CMHR envisions a world in which everyone values human rights and takes responsibility for fostering respect and dignity. 

“Our vision is ambitious but attainable,” says Harrison. “We aim to create a society where everyone feels empowered to advocate for human rights, to share who they are authentically in the workplace and at home, and to make sure that respect and dignity for all are the bedrock of our communities.”

As businesses navigate the challenges of today’s world, investing in human rights professional development demonstrates a profound commitment to equity, respect, and dignity. By participating in CMHR’s programs, organizations can effectively fulfill their responsibilities to employees, customers, and communities, while significantly enhancing their social responsibility and reputation. This transformative engagement aligns organizational culture with vital societal values, positioning businesses as leaders in social accountability and integrity.

“The CMHR is here to equip organizations with the tools they need to effect genuine change,” emphasizes Pinkos. “By fostering connections, understanding, and empathy, we inspire individuals to rise as upstanders, prepared to drive lasting change. Partnering with us not only propels organizations forward but advances society toward a more just and equitable future for all.” 

Located on Treaty 1 territory in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights is the first museum solely dedicated to the evolution, celebration, and future of human rights.

The Business Case for Human Rights
Benefits and opportunities for your company

Reduces risk

Robust human rights practices can reduce business risks. Human rights complaints or abuses can be damaging to your company, resulting in legal actions, regulatory measures, financial costs, negative media attention, loss of revenue, and more. Human rights abuses can also have serious consequences on people—from your employees to those living in local communities where you operate.

Increases trust and attracts customers

A good human rights record is simply good business. It can enrich your company’s brand and reputation. It can help you build trust with employees, customers and other stakeholders. And it can help you earn new customers and deepen relationships with existing ones.

Opens access to capital

Many financial institutions and credit agencies are paying more attention to a company’s human rights performance before financing or investing in them. In the absence of key human rights practices, your business may not qualify for credit funding and other financing opportunities.

Improves community relations

The world is seeing a new landscape of company-community relations. With the rise of social media, local communities that may be adversely impacted by a business are being more proactive to ensure companies respect human rights, engage communities in dialogue and support local development. Businesses that do so are rewarded with strong community relationships and continued business.

From Export Development Canada (edc.ca/en/guide/human-rights-101.html)