Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Action Plan
All Niagara Region projects
About the Project
Niagara Region and the 12 local municipalities affirmed their support for diversity, equity and inclusion when they signed a joint declaration to join the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities on Sept. 18, 2020.
Current diversity, equity and inclusion work is focused on creating an action plan to guide the work at the Region for the next five years, and initial steps are being taken to advance diversity, equity and inclusion in Niagara.
The objectives of the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities are to:
- Improve municipal practices to promote social inclusion
- Establish policies to eradicate racism and discrimination
- Promote human rights and diversity
Importance of diversity, equity and inclusion
- Diverse talent: Better represents the public we serve in all positions, including senior management
- Inclusive leaders: Equipped to respond to a changing workforce and community
- Diversity of thought and experience: Thrive in an inclusive workplace, improving productivity, innovation and quality of outcomes
- Greater collaboration: Enables creativity and innovation in the way we work
- Responsive public service: Creates equitable policies, programs and services
Goals for 2021-2022
- Goal 1: To develop a five-year Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Action Plan by April 2022
- Goal 2: To increase the diversity of job applicants and new staff hired
- Goal 3: To provide staff with the knowledge, skills and resources to reduce racism and discrimination, and improve inclusion and diversity
- Goal 4: To provide opportunities for community members to be heard and participate in decision-making processes
- Goal 5: To improve collaboration with diverse community members and organizations in Niagara
Project Timeline
january to March 2021 - completed
Assessment of current status
february to July 2021 - completed
Plan for engagement
June to November 2021 - completed
Identify barrier and critical success factors through community engagement;
conduct staff and community focus groups
September 20 to October 1, 2022 - completed
Administer staff survey
November to december - completed
Administer community survey
January to June 2022 - in progress
Create strategy, monitoring plan and report
July 2022
Present Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Action Plan to Regional Council
Contact
Cassie Ogunniyi
Project Manager
905-980-6000 ext. 3226
Email Cassie Ogunniyi
Draft Action Plan
The Niagara Region Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee wants your feedback on the draft Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Action Plan with strategies to make Niagara more welcoming and inclusive.
Take the survey and provide your feedback.Definitions
Diversity: The presence of differences in the lived experiences and perspectives of people
Equity: When everyone receives fair treatment, access, opportunity and advancement in all areas of life
Inclusion: The creation of welcoming spaces and opportunities for everyone to participate and succeed
Reports and Documents
Based on the staff and community research conducted in 2021, five reports have been completed. The Data Summary Report combines the key details from the other four reports.