Holiday office party season is just around the corner and festivities are top of mind for Éduc’alcool. The non-profit organization wants Quebec employees to toast to a safe celebration. “We want everyone to have real choices,” says executive director Josée Côté. Éduc’alcool is asking the question: does alcohol have any business in business? It’s one of the awareness campaigns launched by the non-profit group. It invites businesses to rethink alcohol at corporate events. “We don’t want to ban alcohol. That’s not our message, but we believe that we can have a more safer and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and not feeling any pressure to drink alcohol,” Côté said. When planning a holiday party, Côté said employers should plan ahead and offer non-alcoholic alternatives. “It begins at the start when they send the invitation. We used to ask people if they have allergies, so why not ask them their preference in alcoholic beverages?” Côté said. The end of the night is also just as important. Côté says party organizers should be making sure employees have a safe ride home whether that’s using public transit, in a taxi, or ride-share. Éduc’alcool is also once again partnering with Nez Rouge for the holiday season. Free, safe rides will be offered from Nov. 27 to Dec. 31. A full list of tips can be found on the Éduc’alcool website.
