Statement from the Librarian and Archivist of Canada

As we approach the end of June, a month when many in Canada and around the world are celebrating Pride, I would like to reiterate Library and Archives Canada’s (LAC) and my personal commitments to 2SLGBTQI+ communities.

In keeping with the Government of Canada’s prioritization of diversity and inclusion, LAC has for a number of years been broadening its existing collections to build a more complete and representative portrait of our society in all its richness. This orientation has, among other things, highlighted the need for a particular focus on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.

As a leading institution and employer in the archival and library fields, we have also been working hard to ensure that LAC’s teams of experts are as diverse as Canada’s population is, and that they feel welcome in all aspects of their workplaces. This includes our valued colleagues who are part of the 2SLGBTQI+ communities.

As you may know, I was recently honoured to be chosen as the President-elect and future President of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA). LAC has always been a proud partner of IFLA. I am looking forward to having Canada’s unique voice play a leading role for tolerance and inclusion in this prestigious organization, which brings together our peers from around the globe representing the vast diversity of the world’s cultures.

We are making it clear that all the colours of the rainbow are welcome at LAC. This is one of the values that I will be espousing as I represent Canada in a greater leadership role at IFLA in the coming years.

Leslie Weir

Librarian and Archivist of Canada