Equity & Inclusion, Kafka-Style (True Story)

Credit Union Foundation: We have a non-banking job available in one of our programs helping folks in need!

Applicant: Awesome!

Credit Union Foundation: We welcome & encourage applications from systemically excluded folks. (i.e. IBPOC, LGBTQIA2+, Trans and Non-Binary)

Applicant: Fantastic! I'm applying!

Credit Union Foundation: We recognize the barriers and oppressions systemically excluded folks experience. We're committed to reconciliation, equity, diversity and inclusion.

Applicant: I have decades of relevant lived and working experience and I'm excited to apply! Your commitment to equity for folks excluded by oppressive systems is so admirable! Here's my application!

Credit Union Foundation: All applicants must submit to a background verification check that includes full criminal record and credit checks.

Applicant: Really? I have a criminal record but I'm bondable and cleared to work with vulnerable populations. I won't pass a credit check, but my criminal record check will confirm I've never committed any financial fraud.

Is a credit check really necessary? How does a credit score have any reasonable bearing on anyone's viability as a candidate for this equity-informed, non-banking role?

Credit Union Foundation: Sorry. Federal government rules. Nothing we can do.

Applicant: Really? Systemically excluded folks are also often criminalized and/or live in poverty, due in large part to impacts of colonialism and ongoing oppressive policies legislated by federal and provincial governments.

Your credit check requirement literally mirrors a significant systemic barrier for a great many of the marginalized folks your Foundation programs serve, and apparently seeks to recruit, including me. Other than through a credit check, is there any other way I can provide the verifications you need so I can be considered for this role, which I know I'd excel at?

Credit Union Foundation: