York Region commits to diversity, equality with inclusion charter

'Our diversity is our strength, and we remain committed to working alongside our various partners for strong, caring and safe communities,' says CEO

Newmarkettoday.ca
July 10, 2023

As one of Canada's fastest-growing and diverse regions with residents from more than 230 ethnic origins speaking 120 languages, York Region is marking the fifth year of its Inclusion Charter and initiatives for creating equality for all who work, live and play across its nine cities and towns.

The Inclusion Charter for York Region, first endorsed in 2018, brings together municipalities, police services, hospitals, school boards, conservation authorities, community agencies and others with a common commitment to create inclusive environments, according to a Regional Municipality of York news release.

Thirty-six organizations have endorsed the charter, according to Vaughan Regional Councillor Gino Rosati, chair of the region’s community and health services.

As endorsement expands, so does the collective commitment and reach of actions to help create welcoming and inclusive communities, he added.

Recent events such as discrimination and inequalities experienced by some communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as an increase in hate crimes in 2022, have highlighted the importance of the Inclusion Charter, the region stated.

The collaboration is implementing initiatives that include the Inclusive Language Guide and #EndHateYR Campaign to increase a sense of belonging and decrease incidences of hate
crimes.

York Region’s commitment to inclusion continues to be recognized by the United Nations.

Earlier this year, its collective agreement with the United Nations Institute for Training and
Research was renewed and focuses on advancing social inclusion and sustainable development and fostering support of collaborative actions to advance the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.

Internally, York Region has established an inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility division to strengthen its corporate commitment to the Inclusion Charter. Efforts to address anti-Black racism, promote equity and belonging in the workplace and ensure accessibility of programs and services strengthen its internal commitment to inclusion.

“Our diversity is our strength, and we remain committed to working alongside our various partners for strong, caring and safe communities," York Region Chairman and CEO Wayne Emmerson said.

For more information, visit the website.