Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) is more than a set of values. It is a framework for designing experiences where everyone feels seen, respected, and able to participate fully. At its core, IDEA challenges us to move beyond representation and into action. It asks us to build systems, environments, and events that reflect and celebrate the full spectrum of human experience.
At the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA), IDEA is central to how we show up as a community and as a profession. It is a pillar of our core values, and is embedded in our strategy, our programming, and the way we engage with our 24,000+ members across Ontario.
To support our community, the HRPA has developed a member-exclusive resource that highlights cultural, religious, and national observances to consider when planning your events. It’s a practical tool designed to help you embed IDEA into your decision-making from the start.
Tips for HR Leaders: Inclusive Scheduling in Practice
We also encourage you to consider the following IDEA-informed strategies and tips:
- Build a Shared Calendar of Key Dates
Regularly review cultural calendars to track major religious holidays, cultural observances, and public holidays. Be mindful of holidays that follow lunar or cultural calendars and shift annually, such as those observed in Islamic, Jewish, Hindu, and Buddhist traditions.
- Ask Early and Often
Invite employees, stakeholders, and community members to flag important dates you may not have considered. Engage employee resource groups, cultural committees, or local leaders for diverse perspectives.
- Plan for Flexibility
Provide multiple session times, virtual options, or recordings. Consider how religious practices, like fasting during Ramadan, might affect participation.
- Be Open About Your Intentions
Let participants know you’re working to plan events inclusively, even if you can’t avoid every potential conflict. Acknowledge your intent and invite feedback—this builds trust and shows your commitment to continuous improvement.
- Keep Evolving
Review your practices at least once a year. Inclusion is not a one-time effort, it’s ongoing. As your organization grows and communities evolve, be ready to update your calendar and planning processes accordingly.
How HRPA Is Putting IDEA Into Practice for Our Events
We are committed to applying the same IDEA lens we encourage across the profession. As we plan events—from large-scale conferences to local chapter gatherings—we’re taking concrete steps to ensure inclusion is built in, not bolted on.
As we look ahead to 2026 and beyond, we are taking a more intentional approach to event scheduling. This includes considering key dates and observances that may impact our members’ ability to participate. We aim to reduce barriers to access, respect diverse traditions and needs, and create space for everyone to belong. Our approach will be ever evolving, but we are committed to planning with care and being transparent about our efforts.
This includes:
- Thoughtful Scheduling: We now prioritize key religious, cultural, and awareness days such as Yom Kippur, Eid, Diwali, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and others when setting our calendars. While we cannot avoid all conflicts, we aim to minimize them wherever possible.
- Accessible Formats: We offer virtual attendance and session recordings wherever feasible, helping to reduce geographic, physical, or timing-related barriers to participation.
- Community Consultation: We actively seek input from our members and chapter leaders and remain open to feedback. This ongoing dialogue helps us learn and adapt.
Our Commitment
At HRPA, IDEA principles are foundational to how we serve and support our members. We are continuously working to create environments where everyone feels respected, welcomed, and empowered to engage. We know that inclusive scheduling requires intention, transparency, and flexibility.
We want to hear from you with any feedback you may have. Please reach out to us at info@hrpa.ca.
Together, we can plan better—and build a stronger, more inclusive future for our profession.