Port Hope’s new diversity, equity, and inclusion policy is a major step forward in helping more people in the community win, especially those from whom the rules historically haven’t favoured them, Councillor Todd Attridge said at a recent council meeting.
He went on to urge council, staff, and residents to take pride in the new policy, as it represents a path forward marked by respect and the hard work of those involved in its creation.
The policy came to council at its February meeting. After its presentation and some debate, staff was directed to make some changes to the proposed policy. In addition to the changes, a new section was added that allows an individual to raise concerns about bias, barriers, or systemic discrimination in municipal policies or programs for staff to review, respond to, and take corrective action.
In addition to Port Hope, the Cobourg council approved an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion 2022-2026 strategy. Northumberland County integrated its diversity, equity, and inclusion commitment into its 2023-2027 Community Strategic Plan. The remaining five municipalities, Alnwick/Halidmand, Brighton, Cramahe, Hamilton townships, and Trent Hills, address inclusion in their Accessibility Plans or community safety frameworks, but do not have a standalone policy.
Take a listen to the final presentation of the Port Hope policy and hear the final remarks as it is approved.
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