Statistics Canada Data Show Lack of Diversity on Nonprofit Boards

Statistics Canada recently released the results of a survey conducted between December 4, 2020 and January 18, 2021, showing that immigrants and racialized people are underrepresented on the boards of nonprofits and charities.  

The survey was developed in collaboration with sector representatives including Imagine Canada, The Circle on Philanthropy and Aboriginal Peoples in Canada, Network for the Advancement of Black Communities, Cooperation Canada, the Ontario Nonprofit Network, and YMCA Canada. The survey was done by crowdsourcing to better understand who serves on the boards of charities and nonprofits. The survey was completed by 8,835 individuals – 6,170 of whom were board members. Respondents were asked about their gender, race, age, sexual orientation, immigration status, and disability.

The results of the survey showed that:

• there is a lack of diversity on nonprofit boards;

• organizations serve a very diverse range of populations; and

• a deliberate approach around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work matters and requires resources.

 The sector representatives have released a statement regarding the findings and a call to action to the federal government and the nonprofit sector. You can read the full statement here.