Mitchel Bowers, Committee Member, spoke to the Anti-Racism and Discrimination Study, which outlines the results from the Conversation Cafes and the on-line survey, and it was noted that the key themes were: 1. Racism is a problem in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo; 2. A lack of understanding of the depth or scope of the problem; 3. A real, significant impact to the Region due to racism; and 4. No platform for people to share concerns or receive support.
Tinna Ezekiel, Department Administrator, provided an overview of the six recommendations within the study, which fit within the current Municipal Diversity and Inclusion Plan (2017-2022): 1. Effective communication of information to and within the region; 2. Diverse voices are identified, involved and engaged; 3. Promote a sense of community by recognizing and celebrating diversity; 4. Increase understanding through education; 5. Foster trust and collaboration between groups and individuals; and 6. Reduce barriers to resources and services. It was indicated that data analysis of the survey results is ongoing and that the results of the study would be used to help formulate the final recommendations to Council in December.