Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Why EDI matters in Marketing
As marketers, we hold unique power and responsibility. Every campaign we create, every message we craft, and every audience we define shapes how people see themselves and others. Our work doesn't just sell products—it influences culture, challenges stereotypes, and either opens doors or reinforces barriers.
Equity, diversity, and inclusion aren't just values to uphold; they're essential to effective marketing. When we truly understand and represent the diverse communities we serve, we create more authentic connections, build stronger brand loyalty, and drive better business outcomes.
CMA’s Ongoing Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
The Canadian Marketing Association stands firmly committed to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion within our profession and industry. This commitment is grounded in a core principle of the Canadian Marketing Code of Ethics and Standards, which requires that all marketers: "promote equality and must not condone, tolerate or otherwise allow discrimination, intolerance of differences or any abuse of power or position in any workplace or working relationship."
We recognize that this principle demands more than passive compliance—it requires active, intentional work to dismantle systemic barriers and create truly inclusive marketing environments.
Guiding Meaningful Change
Our EDI Committee brings together marketers and professionals with diverse expertise and lived experiences to guide our strategic direction on equity, diversity, and inclusion. Their insights, wisdom, and leadership inform everything we do, ensuring our initiatives are grounded in authentic understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities within our profession.
Through their guidance, we are implementing comprehensive initiatives designed to:
- Equip marketing professionals with tools and knowledge to create safe, inclusive workplaces
- Address and dismantle systemic and institutional barriers that disproportionately impact BIPOC marketers and other marginalized groups
- Elevate diverse voices and perspectives throughout the marketing industry
- Hold ourselves and our members accountable to meaningful progress
From Awareness to Action
We have moved beyond statements and pledges to concrete action. The CMA’s work focuses on creating measurable change through education, advocacy, policy development, and community building. We are committed to transparency about our progress, accountability when we fall short, and continuous evolution as we learn and grow.
This is not a moment—it is an ongoing commitment to transforming our industry into one that truly reflects, respects, and celebrates the diversity of the communities we serve.
Learn More
For more information on our EDI initiatives including the CMA’s yearly EDI report, visit our Research Centre.
For more information on our Black Town Initative Chartered Marketer Bursary program, visit Learning
The Canadian Marketing Association thanks our equity, diversity, and inclusion partners who support CMA in making transformational change across the marketing community through best practices, thought leadership and educational opportunities.
