Community consultation set to begin to update Markham’s Diversity Action Plan

“As part of Markham’s strategic plan, Building Markham’s Future Together, we are updating our Diversity Action Plan. This is our commitment toward inclusion and celebrating our diversity. Diversity is our strength and drives our community’s vibrancy, success and innovation,” said Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “As the Mayor of Markham, I encourage you to participate in our upcoming community consultations or complete our community survey. Your voice matters. As Canada’s most diverse community, we will continue to strive to create an environment that is welcoming and inclusive for all.”

Markham encourages residents, business owners, community organizations and those who work in Markham to participate in the update of the City’s Diversity Action Plan by sharing their experiences and identifying priorities important to them related to diversity, inclusion, equity, racism, and accessibility.

Individuals and stakeholders can help shape the City’s future and be a part of the conversation by completing the online survey or registering in one of the upcoming targeted virtual community consultations that will be occurring from November 16 to December 2. Participation in these safe, facilitated engagements is encouraged for all including Markham’s racialized, Indigenous, immigrant, faith, youth and seniors, people living with disabilities, members of the 2SLGBTQ+, business and service organization communities.

“The feedback we received for Markham’s Diversity Action Plan – Everyone Welcome provided important insights and uncovered needs that were used to develop City initiatives and policies,” said Markham CAO Andy Taylor. “Now, it is time to assess our progress and to develop new goals. We look forward to engaging in meaningful dialogue and obtaining a new round of community feedback about what is important and how to continue to develop policies, programs, amenities and services that are equitable for all.”

The City of Markham is one of the most diverse cities in Canada and launched its first Diversity Action Plan – Everyone Welcome in 2010. A multi-year plan that contained 67 recommendations, Everyone Welcome was developed through a comprehensive community consultation process involving more than 200 community groups and internal departments.

For more information, and to join the conversation visit markham.ca/DiversityActionPlan.