Stepping up its efforts to fight racism, promote equality and create an inclusive community, the City of Red Deer has joined the Canadian Coalition of Municipalities Against Racism and Discrimination.
As part of the international organization, the city commits to develop an action plan that reflects local realities to combat racism.
The city will share resources and work with other municipalities in the fight.
The plan will be submitted to the Canadian Commission for United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the Welcoming and Inclusive Communities Initiative. The city joins 13 Alberta municipalities, including Innisfail, that are members.
Red Deer city councillors said on Monday that this will only strengthen the city’s current initiatives.
“Our community is becoming more and more diverse and I think this can only strengthen our work,” said Coun. Dianne Wyntjes.
Coun. Paul Harris said this sends the right message to the community. Harris said he hopes the action plan will be developed that will help in the schools.
“Yes, we may be doing this in our community but we might learn and they might learn as well,” said Mayor Morris Flewwelling. “We have a history and tradition of being welcoming.”
Member municipalities pass resolutions to address 10 common commitments outlined by the coalition. Among the commitments, the city commits to increase vigilance against systemic and individual racism and discrimination, provide equal opportunities as a municipal employer, service provider and contractor, and support measures to promote equity in the labour market.
crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com