We are living through a time when citizens’ trust in institutions such as the media and governments is at an all-time low. This reality, which is not new, also affects the image of business people in Quebec. For years, numerous polls have shown that a significant part of the population has a certain mistrust of the business community.
This idea that we have of the company and its leaders is well anchored in Quebec. That of the big company, of the leader of a multinational who thinks only of profit and pays little attention to social problems. This image, however, could not be further from the reality of today’s business leader.
The average boss in Quebec has fewer than five employees, and his business is often his only vehicle for saving for retirement. They are men and women concerned about the future of the society in which they live.
Companies are positioning themselves more and more on major societal issues such as the fight against discrimination, the inclusion of minorities and the fight against climate change. Initiatives promoting women and diversity in management positions are on the increase, and employers are competing in ingenuity to better integrate people with disabilities into the workplace. Recently, many have spoken to mark the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. Leaders are committed to making both their communities and their workplaces healthy and positive.
In recent months, we have intervened on subjects as varied as the protection of personal information, the reform of the Charter of the French language and the modernization of the occupational health and safety system. During the study of Bills 64, 96 and 59 dealing with these issues, we presented nuanced points of view, far from the preconceived ideas that some might have had of our positions.
We are witnessing a shower of initiatives from the business world to encourage the social economy, cooperatives and the green economy. We are very far from a management where we only take into account the income and expenditure column.
The social conscience of the business community is today as developed as that of other groups or lobbies. No one has a monopoly on the common good in Quebec. However, when economic associations speak out on social issues, comment on bills or intervene in a public debate, a certain fringe of the population still tends to be wary of this point of view.
Business people are, however, no different from other Quebecers; they work hard and want the best for their employees, their business and Quebec. Like everyone else, Quebec leaders aim for a better work-life balance and face growing psychological health issues.
It is time to shatter this old image, to uninhibit the Quebec business community. We are always present to address issues such as labor shortages or business productivity, but we should not be shy about participating in debates about our broader societal challenges.
Quebec inc. is working hard to get our economy back on track and to face the profound changes in the labor market and environmental challenges. Let us underline his contribution to making Quebec one of the most prosperous and equitable societies in the world.