Methodology

Canadians representing different walks of life and work experiences will be selected through a democratic lottery to engage in frank, open discussions about their own experiences voicing concerns at work. Our citizens' assembly will learn about existing legislation, protections and workers’ options from experts, and collaboratively establish a vision for what worker voice should look like in the future. 

Participants are not expected to have any specialized knowledge. They needn't be an expert, to be currently employed, or be a union member to participate. Their experience as someone who works, has worked, or knows people who work is what matters most. In addition, the various sessions will include a substantive, but accessible, learning program to ensure participants have all the unbiased background information needed to make a contribution.

What is a Citizens' Assembly?

Citizens’ Assemblies have been used across Canada and Europe to provide detailed guidance to governments and decision-makers concerning complex public policies. These Assemblies are typically made up of several dozen randomly selected participants who, together, represent a range of perspectives as well as the demographic profile of a specific jurisdiction. Participation is a voluntary act of public service. Working with a team of independent facilitators, members of a citizens’ assembly learn about an important public issue. They hear from experts, stakeholders, and other citizens as they work towards a consensus concerning their priorities. Citizens’ Assemblies issue detailed public reports that explain their work and make recommendations, which are used by governments and other public authorities to create public policies.