CGLQ LGBT Corporate Accreditation Program

Program objectives

The CGLQ corporate accreditation program was designed to concretely transform Quebec workplaces into inclusive and respectful spaces for sexual diversity. Its fundamental objectives are:

• Promote workplace diversity – Encourage businesses to recognize and value sexual and gender diversity within their teams.
• Combat discrimination – Eliminate all forms of discrimination, harassment or exclusion based on sexual orientation or gender identity in the workplace.
• Create safe environments – Ensure that every employee can work in an environment where they feel respected and safe, regardless of their identity.
• Establish clear standards – Provide a structured framework allowing businesses to measure and improve their inclusion practices.
• Recognize committed employers – Publicly acknowledge businesses that demonstrate leadership in diversity and inclusion.

This program is open to all Quebec businesses, regardless of their size or sector of activity. It is based on the conviction that inclusive workplaces benefit society as a whole.

The 14 requirements for businesses

To obtain CGLQ accreditation, businesses must meet 14 requirements covering all organizational practices related to inclusion:

1. Non-discrimination policy – Adopt a written policy prohibiting any discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
2. Anti-harassment policy – Implement a specific policy against homophobic and transphobic harassment in the workplace.
3. Staff training – Offer regular training on sexual and gender diversity to all employees.
4. Management training – Provide in-depth training to managers on inclusive management of diverse teams.
5. Equitable benefits – Ensure that social benefits (insurance, leave, etc.) apply equitably to same-sex partners.
6. Recognition of LGBT families – Recognize and respect different family structures, including same-sex parent families.
7. Accessible complaint process – Establish a confidential and accessible complaint mechanism for cases of discrimination or harassment.
8. Inclusive recruitment – Adopt recruitment practices that promote diversity and eliminate biases related to sexual orientation.
9. Inclusive communication – Use language and internal/external communications that reflect respect for diversity.
10. Support for LGBT employees – Offer resources or a support group for LGBT employees within the company.
11. Leadership commitment – Obtain a formal and visible commitment from senior management in favour of LGBT inclusion.
12. Suppliers and partners – Encourage suppliers and business partners to adopt similar inclusion practices.
13. Community engagement – Participate in community initiatives related to sexual diversity (sponsorships, volunteering, pride events, etc.).
14. Continuous evaluation – Conduct periodic evaluations of inclusion practices and commit to a process of continuous improvement.

Each requirement is evaluated according to precise criteria defined by the CGLQ. The candidate business must demonstrate that it meets the majority of these requirements to obtain accreditation.

Benefits for accredited businesses

CGLQ accreditation offers numerous advantages to businesses that commit to this process:

• Public recognition – The business obtains the right to display the CGLQ accreditation seal, attesting to its commitment to diversity.
• Employer attractiveness – A workplace recognized as inclusive attracts talented candidates who value diversity and respect.
• Staff retention – Employees who feel respected and included are more likely to remain loyal to the company.
• Improved work climate – An inclusive environment fosters collaboration, creativity and well-being for all employees.
• Enhanced reputation – Accreditation strengthens the company’s image with its clients, partners and the general public.
• Access to the CGLQ network – The business joins a network of committed organizations and benefits from the CGLQ’s expertise.
• Legal compliance – The program helps businesses ensure their compliance with Quebec legislation on human rights.

Accreditation process

Obtaining CGLQ accreditation follows a structured multi-step process:

1. Initial request – The business contacts the CGLQ at info@cglq.ca to express its interest and obtain the application file.
2. Self-assessment – The business conducts a self-assessment of its current practices against the 14 program requirements.
3. File submission – The business submits its complete file, including documentary evidence of its policies and practices.
4. CGLQ evaluation – A CGLQ evaluation committee analyses the file and may conduct a visit or complementary interviews.
5. Decision and accreditation – If the business meets the criteria, it receives official CGLQ accreditation.
6. Monitoring and renewal – The accreditation is subject to periodic monitoring to ensure the maintenance of practices.

For information about costs associated with the accreditation process, please contact the CGLQ directly at info@cglq.ca. Rates may vary depending on the size of the business and the complexity of the evaluation.

Context 2026: corporate DEI initiatives

In 2026, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives occupy a central place in Quebec business strategy. The CGLQ accreditation program fully aligns with this dynamic:

• Consumers and investors are increasingly attentive to the inclusion practices of the businesses they engage with.
• Competition for talent pushes businesses to stand out through concrete and verifiable inclusion policies.
• ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) standards now integrate sexual diversity as a key indicator of social performance.
• Quebec legislation continues to evolve, strengthening employer obligations in terms of discrimination prevention.

In this context, CGLQ accreditation represents a concrete strategic advantage. It allows businesses to credibly and independently demonstrate their commitment to sexual diversity, beyond mere statements of intent.

The CGLQ supports businesses in this process with tools adapted to the realities of 2026, including online training, practical guides and personalized support throughout the process.