DRAFT Bullying Statement 3: Hallmarks of an Inclusive, Respectful, and Professional Fire Department.

• Upholding the values of a trusted profession: Firefighting is recognized as one of the most respected and trusted professions in the world. To uphold its true spirit, in the protection of people, property and the environment in our service to communities, we must also do so in service to ourselves and our colleagues.

• Making everyone feel safe and welcome at this fire department:  We have to be deliberate and mindful in trying to make everyone feel welcome and safe at work. In its simplest form, civil behaviour aligns with a common vision of humanity.  “Injustice anywhere threatens justice everywhere”.

• Continuous cultural improvement: We recognize that historically, there may be practices in fire service culture that, although entrenched and seen as horseplay, are bullying behaviours and are not acceptable. We all have a responsibility to improve the future. This is not only a moral imperative, but a key contributor to accountability, safety, service delivery and retention in the fire service. 

• The importance of having open and inclusive conversations: Open and inclusive discussion and input should be normalized, and people should feel supported in vulnerable conversations, and learn how to have “crucial conversations”, to say no to that which diminishes us, and yes to that which aligns and strengthens us collectively.  We don’t need to unnecessarily ask people to share more than they want to or accentuate differences.

• We should all take measures to hold ourselves accountable: When we act against the values of inclusion and safety, we can, with both kindness and compassion, remind each other that we can and must do better. We don’t always need to call people out, but “call people in”. We don’t need to shame or blame, we just need to do better and find ways to support that intention.

• Addressing barriers: Barriers may exist that make it harder for people to feel included, respected, and professional. These barriers can be systemic and harder to see. They need to be identified and discussed. Everyone has a responsibility in this.

• Everyone leads: We lead ourselves, we may lead others, we lead by example, and we lead in how we make others feel and the ripple impacts this may have on their lives. We all must find constructive, productive, and respectful ways of dealing with legitimate issues that are difficult and stressful.