Kincardine has IDEA to become more inclusive

By Fiona Robertson

October 19, 2022 - 10:36am

A new Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access (IDEA) Action Plan has been approved by Kincardine Council.

In May of 2021, Council approved a motion to create a plan to improve IDEA. Over the past year, the public was able to engage in conversations exploring short- and longer-term actions for the Municipality to focus on.

Four areas make up The Action Plan:

Awareness - Build awareness and understanding to address inclusion, diversity, equity and access.
Service - Facilitate social inclusion, access and participation in programs, services, and the built environment.
Engagement - Listen to the voices of people experiencing inequities.
Reconciliation - Work towards actions to address truth, healing and reconciliation.

There is also the intention to develop meaningful relationships with the Saugeen Ojibway Nation. This includes the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation and the Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation.

“There has been an increased level of awareness that Municipalities need to take a greater role to ensure communities are safe, respectful, and inclusive for all its citizens and visitors. We believe this Plan is a step in the right direction,” said Mayor Gerry Glover.

More information can be found on the town's website.