EQUITY, DIVERSITY, INCLUSION, ANTI-RACISM, INDIGENOUS & SOCIAL JUSTICE INITIATIVES
The Summer of 2020 saw The Land Back Camp take place in Victoria Park and Waterloo Park to draw attention to and action on injustices on our Indigenous People. In the United States, tragic events involving George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery showed how racism's grip was so very strong and so very wrong. Canadians and Americans wanted change. This following report from National Public Radio summarizes what's been called The Summer Of Reckoning.
KITCHENER'S RESPONSE
Racism is not just an American thing. It exists in Canada. It exists in Kitchener. It was clear that things had to change and change now. Everyone should have the same opportunities. More voices need to be heard. Systemic Racism needs to be removed. Kitchener Council voted to Advance Kitchener's Work on Equity, Anti-Racism, Indigenous Initiatives & Social Justice Issues. It includes the the creation of a dedicated staff team, to provide senior level leadership and internal staff expertise in those areas. To view how we are responding, click HERE
The Rise Fund
Racialized And Indigenous Supports For Equity
Racialized And Indigenous Supports For Equity
Kitchener provides grants to support for community-led organizations, programs, initiatives or events that would help decrease inequities and increase opportunities and well-being for Black, Indigenous and Racialized communities in Kitchener. You can get the information on the RISE FUND and apply for it HERE
Kitchener Council and City Staff have and continue to receive training on Anti Racism and Indigenous Issues. There is much work to do and it will be ongoing. Inspired by the training we have received, I searched for more information on Anti-Racism, I'd like to share a Podcast that I have found very helpful. It's called Silence Is Not An Option, hosted by Don Lemon of CNN. You can find it HERE I've also found a book called How To Be An Anti-Racist by Ibram X. Kendi very enlightening.
Racial Equality Waterloo Region has an excellent webpage to help end racism and discrimination. There are lots of resources to help you learn about the issues and make our community a welcoming and anti-racist community. You can find it HERE