The oversight body for lawyers in Alberta has announced the discontinuation of mandatory Indigenous cultural competency training as the “Peterson law” approaches implementation, as stated by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. The Law Society of Alberta is also dissolving its equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) committee in response to Bill 13, the Regulated Professions Neutrality Act, introduced by the government in November.
The new provincial regulations prohibit regulators from enforcing mandatory training related to cultural competency, unconscious bias, or diversity, equity, and inclusion. Premier Smith referenced an incident involving psychologist Jordan Peterson in 2022 as inspiration for the government’s actions. Peterson faced sanctions from Ontario’s regulator for online comments, including those concerning transgender individuals and plus-size models.
A shift in approach towards equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives has been observed in major U.S. corporations following the return of Donald Trump to office, with some Canadian entities following suit. In 2021, the law society introduced “The Path,” a one-time training linked to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action. The society’s decision to mandate this training was met with criticism and opposition from various quarters.
The society’s move to discontinue mandatory cultural competence training and dissolve the EDI committee has sparked varied reactions. While some view this decision as a step in the right direction, others express concerns about the impact on Indigenous communities and the profession at large. The changes at the law society align with broader shifts in legal legislation in Alberta, including recent resignations at the Alberta Law Foundation following increased government oversight.
The new president of the Law Society of Alberta, Bud Melnyk, affirms the society’s commitment to supporting the foundation during its transition. Despite the discontinuation of mandatory training, the Path program will remain available to interested lawyers. The decision to end mandatory requirements while still offering the training reflects ongoing efforts to balance professional development with individual choice and societal expectations.