The Social Services Network of Sarnia-Lambton has written a letter to all members of Sarnia City Council after becoming aware of alleged behaviour at a November 2021 diversity training session.
Chair Carrie McEachran said the group is concerned that equity training provided by the KOJO Institute was allegedly discontinued after inappropriate behaviour was demonstrated by some council members, and other members didn't intervene.
"The trainer was Kike Ojo-Thompson, the CEO and a well-known, highly respected, and knowledgeable trainer in diversity, equity and inclusion," McEachran said.
"Collectively we serve and support thousands of people in Sarnia-Lambton in a variety of ways. We stand together in saying that racism, colonialism, and other forms of oppression are serious problems in our communities, including Sarnia. It is critical that, as city councillors, you learn about and understand equity. You are elected leaders with a responsibility to all citizens including those who are indigenous, Black, racialized and 2SLGBTQ+."
The network represents leadership from 30 different social services and health organizations, including Community Legal Assistance Sarnia (CLAS).
Speaking with Sarnia News Today, Executive Director Andrew Bolter said the group actively looks at its own policies and operations to ensure it's providing inclusive services to clients.
"If we want to have a truly welcoming community and we care about inclusion and that everybody be treated fairly and not have any racism within our community, I think this is an unfortunate outcome, given that the city council really hasn't demonstrated leadership," said Bolter.
The network wants to know what the city intends to do to address what happened.
"In terms of public accountability and an apology, we'd like the letter disclosed that came from the KOJO Institute to city council, which basically said 'look, we don't feel safe to do this training."
Bolter said the network would also like information on what equity training is going to be provided in the future to the city council, city employees, police officers and the Sarnia Police Services Board.
"We'd really like city councillors to take this seriously and agree to having a meaningful engagement in diversity, equity and inclusion training and then we'd like to see the city council make a declaration about racism and hate in our community, because it does have public health implications, in terms of emotional wellness and a healthy community."
When contacted by Sarnia News Today, Integrity Commissioner Paul Watson said that the Code of Conduct and the Municipal Act require him to maintain confidentiality at all times with respect to any complaints he receives.
"I am not permitted to comment on any complaints received unless the complaint leads to a formal investigation that results in a report to council," said Watson.
Councillor Colquhoun asked during the February 28 meeting that staff move forward in addressing the CLAS recommendations on behalf of council.
Council agreed to have staff review the recommendations and report back at a later date.
The Sarnia Journal reported in February that a consultant, the KOJO Institute, has refused to work with the city and cancelled future agreements.