DIVERSITY COMMITTEERainy River District Municipal Association

PresentationJanuary 29, 2011

What is theDiversity Committee?

• Formed in 2008

• Initially spearheaded by the OPP Community Liaison Officer

• Wide cross-section of agencies, organizations, businesses and municipalities represented

• Significant resource gathering already completed

Mission Statement

“Working together to create communities that celebrate diversity by actively practicing and

promoting dignity, respect and inclusiveness.”

The Role of the Diversity Committee

• Acting as a source of vision & direction for anti-discrimination/pro-diversity action and initiatives in the Rainy River District

• Provide leadership and support for governments, businesses, organizations and individuals in developing/sustaining a comprehensive diversity strategy

• Act as a bidirectional communications conduit for all partners

Our Request toRainy River District Municipalities

Part One:

We are continuing to ask for letters from all RRD municipalities & area FN communities affirming support for the work of the Diversity Committee

Part Two:

We are asking each municipality and band council to pass a resolution, joining the UNESCO Coalition of Municipalities Against Racism & Discrimination (CMARD)

Part Three:

We are asking each municipality and First Nation to appoint a community representative to the Diversity Committee

Why Do We Want This?

• An expression of support and solidarity from District community leaders to respect and celebrate our differences

• Provides legitimacy for the current work and future initiatives of our committee

• Shows a commitment to participate in Diversity Committee strategic planning & initiatives

Why Should You Want This?

• Racism & Discrimination divide communities

• Governments have a responsibility to protect & promote human rights of groups & citizens

• Echo effect can make safer, healthier communities

• Allows municipalities access to expertise & resources from other partners

Why Should You Want This?

• Initiative is a natural extension of new provincial employment standards laws

• Can be a draw for new businesses/immigrants/individuals considering moving to the District

What Does Signing Mean For You?

• Support and resources from the 36 Canadian municipal partners

• Positive public relations on a national level

• Total budget implications: $0