Town Launches New Initiative re: Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-Racism [Halton Hills]

Halton Hills, ON – The Town of Halton Hills is embarking on work to understand issues around equity, diversity, inclusion and racism for the purposes of fostering a healthy and welcoming community. The initiative follows local marches held in all four local municipalities this past summer and will include consultation with representation from diverse members of our society, broad community engagement and an internal scan of the municipality’s policies and practices. “Black Lives Matter is a global movement and a local awakening,” said Mayor Rick Bonnette. “I have made it clear that racism is not welcome in this Town and it is time that we make a concerted effort to not just learn from the past but take a stand to oppose actions and beliefs that are contrary to what constitutes a welcoming community.” The Town has engaged the services of Barbara Herring and Associates; a consulting firm with considerable experience in the public and private sectors conducting community and organizational analysis and preparing anti-racism strategies. The consultants will review and collate data received from the public along with information about the Town’s employment processes to ensure that diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism are fundamental principles that define Halton Hills. Residents are encouraged to provide their thoughts using the Town’s engagement platform Additional information about the Town’s initiative is available on the Town of Halton Hills website