Individual assumptions affect public policy
As federal public servants, we often assume that our work applies to or affects all Canadians equally and therefore, there are no gender or diversity issues to consider.
Exploring assumptions can sharpen our awareness of relevant GBA+ factors and enhance the development of most government initiatives.
- The assumptions we make in our work as public servants affect public policy development, which in turn affects both you as a Canadian and Canadians in general.
- Incorrect assumptions can lead to a negative or unexpected impact on a particular group of women or men. GBA+ helps us to recognize and move beyond our assumptions, values and attitudes to uncover the realities of women's and men's lives, in all their diversity, and find ways to address their needs.
- How might assumptions affect perception and willingness to investigate an issue?
- How might people's assumptions skew their vision or prevent them from asking questions and hearing answers?
- How might values and attitudes – your own, those of your organization and those of society – limit the range of policy options proffered?
