The Town of Petawawa is looking to form an equality, diversity and inclusion committee.
Local residents Ellen Wong-Gallant and Rebecca Conroy made a presentation to council Monday night (January 17th, 2022) suggesting the idea.
The group acknowledged there are equality, diversity and inclusion committees across the Ottawa Valley including in Renfrew, Arnprior, Pembroke and at Algonquin College, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, local school boards, Garrison Petawawa and many more.
Some examples of racism and discrimination presented to council in Petawawa included a children’s book at the library depicting Africans as monkeys (Tin-Tin), residents not wanting to welcome people with brown skin because it could trigger PTSD in soldiers, a local 11-year-old also carries around a go-pro because she doesn’t feel safe and has been told she’s dirty because of the colour of her skin.
Mayor Bob Sweet said he’s not opposed to making the community better, but indicated a stand alone committee would get up and running quicker.
The two representatives who presented to council voiced support to make the equality, diversion and inclusion committee a sub-committee of the Town of Petawawa adding they’re not looking for a quick fix.
Councillor James Carmody said he was 100 percent in favour of creating a committee that is tightly associated with the town and council. Carmody says you’re not going to rewire the way people think, but adds the committee could work towards changing systemic discrimination against marginalized sectors of the community.
Councillor Theresa Sabourin agreed this needs to be a committee of council and adds if we remain silent about things that matter that’s a shame.
Deputy Mayor Gary Serviss says it’s important to make Petawawa more inclusive as the town continues to grow. He says this will give people from all sectors a voice, to hear stories and help remove barriers.
Councillor Matthew McLean agreed that the committee should be tied closely to council.
Councillor Murray Rutz talked about the importance of supporting the community and making sure everyone is treated equally.
Councillor Tom Mohns says the town could look towards Pembroke and other local municipalities who have established similar committees to find what works locally. He says this is something that can’t be rushed and needs to be done right.
Town staff will review the equality, diversity and inclusion committee and bring back a report for council to review at a later date.