A message from the District of Muskoka
District Council unanimously passed a resolution yesterday recognizing current calls for social reform to address systemic racism and acknowledging the need to promote and advocate for equity and inclusion for all residents, visitors, and communities in Muskoka.
The resolution endorses the belief that a community’s social fabric and prosperity is enhanced when it is committed to the dignity of every human being and demands all residents have equal opportunity for positive educational, financial, social, and health outcomes.
Staff have been directed to explore available funding opportunities and best practices from municipalities with programs, initiatives, and tools that work efficiently to promote and celebrate diversity in their communities. Leveraging that research, staff will develop recommendations on ways the District can work in partnership with our communities and stakeholders to promote and celebrate diversity and inclusivity; to promote opportunities for dialogue, to strengthen relationships; and to combat systemic racism.
“As outlined in the resolution, communities that have established programs and initiatives supporting diversity help to create a more inclusive society, strengthen community relations, and are better able to attract people of all backgrounds to live, work and visit,” said District Chair John Klinck. “Council’s mission statement recognizes the need to work together to ‘enhance the inclusiveness of our caring community’ and this resolution will help us move this important work forward to the benefit of all individuals living or visiting our communities in Muskoka.”
Council will review the staff report and consider its recommendations at an upcoming Council meeting.
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I certainly hope that the District will institute the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Report (which fall under their purview). Our aboriginal population in north Muskoka deserves no less.