Like many of you, I have been closely following the news and events surrounding the Black Lives Matter movement. Systemic racism is a reality faced not only by Black Americans, but also Black Canadians and one we all need to address and actively help change. Our management team has been reflecting on how Balzac’s can better support both equality movements and our diverse team. Speaking out is not enough and we are committed to helping shape a better tomorrow by taking real action, today.

This week we met with four of our baristas from the BIPOC community. They shared their concerns regarding our lack of discrimination policies and also shared examples of where we could have done better. I know this was not easy and we are grateful for their courage.

We are committed to becoming a stronger ally and, to that end, we will be implementing these changes internally:

• A zero-tolerance policy towards racism, with clear guidelines;
• Creation of a diversity committee to provide feedback on policies and procedures on equality;
• Assessment of our hiring practices to ensure racial or ethnic biases are not present; and
• Mandatory diversity and inclusion training for all staff members.

We acknowledge that this is only the beginning. And we are committed to ongoing dialogue and working collaboratively and transparently to help achieve meaningful and lasting change.

Sincerely,

Diana Olsen
Founder
Balzac's Coffee Roasters