Introductory Session
Our Shared Journey: Unpacking Systemic Racism
Mayor Guthrie introduced Marva Wisdom and Nancy Rowe who co-facilitated the workshop.
Scott Stewart, Chief Administrative Officer, provided introductory remarks regarding the purpose and context for holding the workshop. He also outlined current initiatives that the City has undertaken to support diversity, inclusion and anti-racism across the organization.
Marva Wisdom outlined the agenda and rules of engagement for the workshop.
Nancy Rowe provided information regarding the purpose and history of the land acknowledgement, as well as information regarding the Michi Saagig Nishnaabeg territory that extends across Southern Ontario. She also provided information regarding treaties and briefly touched on the history of colonialism.
Marva Wisdom provided an introduction to systemic racism and its different components, including societal/cultural, institutional, interpersonal and individual. She outlined the difference between equality and equity. She also outlined how this work falls within the Community Plan and conversations that will be held with different community groups, as well as ways for members of Council to provide leadership with respect to this work.
Jennifer Smith, Manager, Corporate and Community Strategic Initiatives, provided concluding remarks and next steps.