Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan
Our commitment to initiatives that embrace diversity, equity and inclusion.
Oakville is a diverse community and we embrace it. We believe that an inclusive community and workplace fosters a sense of belonging for everyone.
That is why we created a Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan in 2021, announcing our commitment to initiatives that embrace diversity, equity and inclusion. We partnered with CCDI Consulting to create the Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan outlined in the Inclusion Initiatives Update (item 4) in the January 25, 2021 Council meeting agenda.
We have also completed work on the key deliverables and are beginning work on a multi-year plan to support inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility (IDEA).
We are committed to promoting a culture of inclusion by providing accessible and equitable programs, services and facilities to residents and employees. This is embodied in our inclusion statement:
The Town of Oakville will champion inclusion through increased opportunities and meaningful engagement to support a workplace and community where all feel respected and welcome.
Through public engagement, staff consultation, internal policy reviews and incorporating best practices, the town aims to amplify the diverse voices of our staff and community for a more inclusive Oakville.
What’s happening in 2023?
- The town is planning to update the rainbow crosswalk at Kerr Street and Lakeshore Road in June and we hosted a public survey earlier this year.
- The development of the inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility multi-year plan is underway and a draft plan will be presented to Council later in 2023.
- Staff will be engaging the community for their input in the multi-year plan. Check back here for updates on how to participate.
January to March 2021
Staff and the workplace (internal work):
- Expanded staff Inclusion Advisory Group
- Defined key deliverables for 2021
- Initiated staff-led diversity, equity and inclusion improvements
Community (external work):
- Researched best practices for diversity and inclusion
April to November 2021
Staff and the workplace (internal work):
- Worked with CCDI Consulting to undertake a policy review to further support inclusion in the workplace and community and conduct an organization-wide maturity evaluation based on Global Diversity and Inclusion Benchmarks
- Continued staff-led diversity, equity and inclusion improvements
Community (external work):
- Developed public engagement plan
- Staff engaged residents, community groups, residents associations and businesses about town programs and services, communications, emerging issues and employment with an inclusion lens.
December 2021
- Staff presented the town’s annual accessibility status update to the Accessibility Advisory Committee
Learn more:
- Town of Oakville Inclusion Lens (pdf)
- Halton Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Charter (endorsed by Town Council)
- Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
- 2021-2022 Inclusion and Diversity Initiatives (pdf)
- 2021 Accessibility Annual Status Update (pdf)
- 2018 Inclusion Initiatives Update Report
Contact
Want to know more? We would love to hear from you! Please contact:
Rebecca Brookes
Corporate Strategy Program Advisor
905-845-6601, ext. 3689
rebecca.brookes@oakville.ca