Anti-Racism Working Group:
Caitlin Downie, Department Administrator provided a brief update on various initiatives including Committee recruitment and selection, Community Investment Program Grants, and the Employee Census. It was also noted that Administration has met with the Multicultural Association to further discuss the Anti-Racism Training module, and that the Legal Department is conducting benchmarking with various municipalities on Anti-Racism Policies.
An update was also provided on the Awareness Campaign, it was indicated that Administration is working closely with the Communications and Engagement Department to refresh the program materials, and anticipates launching in Summer 2021.
Accessibility Working Group:
Caitlin Downie, Department Administrator, advised that Administration had the opportunity to meet with the Regional Inclusion Committee (RIC) and they have expressed interest in working in collaboration on the Accessibility Audit.
Koryn Krekoski, RIC Member, discussed the lack of accessible transportation in the Region, including the Municipalities SMART bus system. As well as a lack of communication and support services for programs and services available for disabled residents. The Committee and Administration provided feedback on options and alternative solutions.
Mitchel Bower, Vice Chair, advised that he had received a letter from the deaf community providing feedback on the interpreter services at the April 27, 2021 Council meeting and the Closed Captioning service.
Jade Brown, Chief Legislative Officer, advised that it is not typical across the province that an ASL interpreter is present for Council meetings or Provincial Legislature settings, and the RMWB will not be moving forward with having an ASL interpreter at all Council meetings. It was further noted that a Council meeting is not the typical platform for sharing information on an emergency situation.
The Committee and Administration discussed potential alternatives for information sharing to the deaf community.