Town of Fort Erie receives and endorses Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Policy

MEDIA RELEASE

FORT ERIE (June 15, 2023) – The Town of Fort Erie has solidified its commitment to a healthy work environment that fosters a climate of openness and supports the achievement of individual potential.

On Monday, June 12, 2023, Town Council approved an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Policy (EDI) developed in collaboration with the Fort Erie Diversity and Inclusion Coalition, which is comprised of members representing various community organizations.

The essence of the policy came down to fostering an environment of openness and unity to diversity through an approach focused on learning, understanding and awareness.

Through support from the Niagara College Capstone Program, a group of students looked at best practices on implementation, which will guide the results of a multi-year work plan coming back to Council in the Fall of 2023 to focus on four action pillars:

Training & Learning
Review of current processes and procedures for systemic barriers
Assessment of Physical Environments to ensure they are open, inclusive and safe
Community Engagement, Promotion and Awareness

“I would like to thank Council for their support along with the Diversity and Inclusion Coalition led by Kathryn Rogers and Riley Zimak and the many engaged Coalition members and participating community agencies on the committee who were crucial in providing a wealth of guidance and advice on the approach the Town should take in developing and implementing our EDI Policy.”

- Chief Administrative Officer, Chris McQueen

“I want to express appreciation to the CAO for putting this policy together in consultation with the Diversity and Inclusion Coalition who had a lot of input into this over the past few months. I think it is an extremely well-written document, and this is a good road for our municipality to go down.”

- Mayor Wayne Redekop