Markham launches updated Diversity Action Plan and new Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Plan

Mission of the two plans is to make everyone feel comfortable and included

Yorkregion.com
July 18, 2022
Scarlett Liu

A celebration launch of the Diversity Action Plan and Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Action Plan was held at the Aaniin Community Centre on July 13.

Members of council alongside Markham city staff attended the event and announced the release of the updated Diversity Action Plan (2022 to 2027) and new Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Plan (2022 to 2027). The two plans outline ongoing actions that will guide the city in its journey to equity, and will enable Markham to be a socially cohesive and inclusive community.

The city partnered with the Ted Rogers School of Management’s Diversity Institute and created the two plans based on feedback collected from several community consultations conducted city-wide in the fall of 2021.

“As Canada’s most diverse community, we have accomplished so much together,” said Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “There’s more to do and the city of Markham is actively creating impactful ways to elevate the voices of our community. The plans affirm our commitment to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, and tackling anti-Black racism.”

Markham chief administrative officer Andy Taylor echoes the mayor’s statement, adding that everyone in Markham should always have a sense of belonging to live their best lives free from barriers of racism, discrimination and access.

The city is dedicated to fighting against all forms of hate and inequities. As such, the plans inform the development of new policies, services, programs and spaces that are inclusive and accessible to all Markham residents.

The updated Diversity Action Plan is a community-oriented strategy that addresses diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, anti-racism and anti-discrimination in all city efforts. The plan is evergreen and adaptable, and reflects the experiences and needs of Markham’s diverse communities.

In addition, the Diversity Action Plan supports and reinforces the Eliminating Anti-Black Racism Plan, which helps ensure members from Markham’s Black, African, African-Canadian, African-Caribbean and Caribbean communities always feel welcome and safe.

“Based on local, national and global events exposing racism and community angst, now is the best time to update Markham’s Diversity Action Plan,” said Mary Anne Chambers, special adviser on anti-Black racism. “An anti-Black racism plan is exactly what the Black community needs and expects to achieve meaningful results for change."

Research shows inclusive environments improve workplaces, communities and the economy, Wendy Cukier said, she is the founder of the Diversity Institute. “Markham’s Diversity Action Plan embeds a diversity lens into everything that the city does, and is a great tool for building a more inclusive and accessible city.”

Learn more and download the plans at markham.ca/DiversityActionPlan.