Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Indigenous Land Acknowledgement
We are currently located on land, which has long served as a site of meeting and exchange among the Mississauga Peoples, and is the traditional and treaty territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. We honour, recognize, and respect this nation and Indigenous Peoples as the traditional stewards of the lands and waters on which we meet today.
Fostering a strong and inclusive region
Having a sense of belonging is critical to our personal and collective success. Who we are in terms of our cultural identity, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, religious affiliation, age, etc. helps to shape our life experiences. It is important that the Region of Durham is a place where diversity is embraced and each one of us is valued and included. Creating a strong sense of belonging helps us harness individual differences in ways that drive leadership, co-operation, innovation and service excellence.
Our organization will strengthen diversity and inclusion by focusing on four goals and areas for improvement:
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Improve our understanding of diversity and deepen everyone’s commitment to inclusion.
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Strengthen diversity and inclusion within our organizational culture.
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Engage staff in diversity and inclusion efforts, and foster opportunities for leadership, advancement and employee development.
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Identify and address barriers to inclusion in the delivery of Regional programs and services.
Durham Region Anti-Racism Taskforce (DRART)Indigenous support and resourcesAddressing anti-Black racism in Durham Black HistoryAddressing anti-Asian racism in DurhamPlans, strategies and policiesCommittees and working groupsAccessibility
June Significant Dates
June is National Indigenous History Month. First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples have stewarded the lands and waters in which the Region is located. Learn more about National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day with this infographic created by Trenton Elmhurst, Student, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Division. Durham Region is committed to reconciliation and encourages everyone to learn about the rich and diverse Indigenous cultures and ancestral traditions that have long served many communities—not just in June, but every day. Learn more about National Indigenous History Month. |
June is recognized as Pride Month. During this month, we recognize and celebrate the unique and diverse 2SLGBTQI+ community and recommit to creating equitable and inclusive spaces for everyone. Learn more about Pride Month with this infographic created by Jessica Lappin, Student, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Division. Join us on June 4 for Youth Pride Durham. You can learn more about this community event at durham.ca/YouthPrideDurham. |
Seniors Month |
June is Seniors Month in Ontario. During this month, we recognize the contributions of seniors to our community. This year’s theme is Stay Active, Connected, and Safe. Learn more about how Durham Region is creating Age-Friendly spaces and how older adults are challenging ageism |
World Environment Day—June 5 |
World Environment Day is led by the United Nations Environment Programme and held annually on June 5. This year’s theme is Only One Earth—a tribute to the first celebration 50 years ago. This theme signifies the need for each of us to do our part to celebrate, protect and restore our planet. Learn more about Durham Region’s transformative actions to address the climate emergency we are facing. |
World Day Against Child Labour—June 12 |
Eliminating child labour is a global priority. Each year on June 12 we recognize the World Day Against Child Labour to raise awareness and champion equitable and safe places for children to reach their full potential away from hazardous, unpaid and domestic work. Learn more about World Day Against Child Labour. |
Elder Abuse Awareness Day—June 15 |
Elder abuse is the abuse or mistreatment of seniors, and can cause harm to a person's health, safety, or well-being. In some cases, it occurs with little recognition or response. On June 15, we raise awareness about this issue and the need to protect elders in our communities. Learn more about World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. If you or someone you know is a victim of elder abuse, there are resources available through Durham Region that you can access. Learn more about Elder Abuse and how to access Regional supports. |
World Refugee Day—June 20 |
World Refugee Day is held on June 20 as a day to honour refugees everywhere. This year’s theme is, “the right to seek safety”. Learn more about World Refugee Day. As Durham Region prepares to welcome immigrants and refugees from all over the world, join us in building a welcoming and inclusive region. |
National Indigenous Peoples Day—June 21 |
National Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to learn, honour and celebrate the distinct heritage, cultural practices, traditions, languages and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities. Learn more about National Indigenous Peoples Day. Durham Region is on land which has served as a site of meeting and exchange of the Mississauga Peoples, covered under the Williams Treaties. Learn more about the traditional stewards of the land that Durham Region is on. On June 21 at 10:30 a.m., Durham Region will raise the Medicine Wheel Flag in recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Day. The flag raising will take place at Regional Headquarters and will include a smudging ceremony and a performance by the Indigenous singing group, Unity. |
National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism—June 23 |
The National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism is observed on June 23 in memory of those who lost their lives to acts of terror in Canada and abroad. This day was established in recognition of the 329 people, including 280 Canadians, who tragically lost their lives after the bombing of Air India Flight 182. This act of violence remains the most devastating terrorist attack in Canadian history. In recognition of this day, Durham Region will lower the flags to half-mast from sunrise to sunset at all Regional facilities. |
Fête Nationale du Québec—June 24 |
On June 24, Québécois and francophone communities celebrate Fête Nationale du Québec, formerly Saint-Jean Baptise Day. This holiday has evolved into a celebration of the distinctness of French culture and language. Learn more about Fête Nationale du Québec. |
International Day in Support of Victims of Torture—June 26 |
Torture is a crime under international law. June 26 is designated by the UN as the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. This day is an opportunity to call on people everywhere to unite in support of victims. Learn more about International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. |
Canadian Multiculturalism Day —June 27 |
Canadian Multiculturalism Day is a day to discover the various cultures that bring Canadian society to life. It also providers an opportunity to learn more about the importance of multiculturalism in Canada. Who we are in terms of our cultural identity, race, religious affiliation, etc., helps to shape our life experiences. We encourage everyone to join us in building a welcoming and inclusive region. |
Durham Region Anti-Racism Taskforce (DRART)
DRART is part of the Region's commitment to develop and implement an Anti-Racism Framework to ensure a healthy workplace and to address racism within the communities the Region serves. The mandate of the DRART is to act in an advisory role to Regional Council through the Finance and Administration Committee on issues related to racism — structural, systemic and interpersonal. The work of DRART will be guided by Council approved Terms of Reference.
Indigenous Support and Resources
Residential School Survivors Helpline: 1-866-925-4419
In memory of the 160 First Nation, Métis and Inuit children who were uncovered in unmarked graves on the site of the former Kuper Island Residential School near Vancouver Island, B.C.; the 182 children who were uncovered in unmarked graves on the site of the former St. Eugene's Mission School in Cranbrook, B.C.; the 751 children on the site of the former Marieval Indian Residential School in Saskatchewan; the 215 children discovered on the Kamloops Indian Residential School grounds in Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc territory, B.C. and those that are still to be found, we are sharing support and resources for Indigenous Peoples and others impacted by these events.
The resources below also contain important information about the history of residential schools, the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and more. We understand this content includes distressing information, and we hope that you can access the resources you need to feel supported.
The Region encourages residents to reflect on our relationships – both past and present – with Indigenous Peoples, and to move forward with reconciliation in our hearts, minds and actions.
Support
Indian Residential School Survivor's Society (IRSSS) |
A provincial organization with a twenty-year history of providing services to Indian Residential School Survivors. Visit the IRSS website. |
First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) |
The first and only provincial First Nations health authority in Canada working to transform and reform the way health care is delivered to British Columbia First Nations. |
Legacy of Hope Foundation |
An Indigenous-led charitable organization. |
Hope for Wellness Chat |
Hope for Wellness Help Line offers immediate mental health counselling and crisis intervention by phone or online chat. Call toll-free 1-855-242-3310 or start a confidential chat with a counsellor at hopeforwellness.ca. |
Bawaajigewin - An Aboriginal Community Circle Oshawa |
The Bawaajigewin Aboriginal Community Circle (BACC) is an Aboriginal-led incorporated non-profit agency in the Durham Region. Visit the website for the Bawaajigewin - An Aboriginal Community Circle Oshawa. |
Indigenous, First Nations, Inuit and Métis (FNIM) |
Mental Health Services, Help and Support in Durham Region: eMentalHealth.ca. |
Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle (NASC) |
Healing services cater for Anisnaabekwewag and their families through traditional Anishnaabe spirituality, but they welcome people from all nations. They serve the geographic area of Turtle Island, including Durham Region. Visit the Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle (NASC) website. |
Métis Nation of Ontario |
Programs, services, and activities to address the holistic needs of Métis people in Ontario at the provincial, regional, and local levels. |
Resources
Videos |
Note: The content in the videos listed below may include distressing details for viewers. Support is available - please see the links above or call the helpline for residential school survivors at 1-866-925-4419.
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Films |
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Sites and links |
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Learn about our shared history and take action |
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National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
The Region is honoured to acknowledge the first ever National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Durham Region on September 30. A time to show respect for the heritage, diverse cultures and achievements of all First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. A time to reflect on relationships—both past and present—with Indigenous Peoples. To move forward with reconciliation. This is just the first step on the long and important journey ahead.
Orange Shirt Drum Circle | ||||||
Thank you to the drummers, performers and participants and those who watched the live stream of the Orange Shirt Drum Circle on September 29. |
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Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action | ||||||
In recognition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation we are highlighting Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) Calls to Action relating to child welfare and children who died or went missing while attending the residential schools.
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More Information and Resources | ||||||
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Addressing anti-Black racism in Durham
The development of an Anti-Black Racism Pillar at The Regional Municipality of Durham calls for key priorities of the Anti-Black Racism Pillar to be identified by the Region’s diverse community of employees.
As one of the core values of the Region is inclusivity, the Anti-Black Racism Pillar’s aim is to assist the Region in moving towards healing from past hurt and advancing towards long-term systemic change for all.
Anti-Black Racism statement | ||||
The Regional Municipality of Durham recognizes the presence of systemic and Anti-Black Racism in the organization and strives to build a safe and healthy workplace where every employee feels valued and treated with dignity and respect. We condemn all forms of systems of oppression which deny individuals the right to equitable treatment, access and fairness.
We continue to believe that it is possible to engage our employees and community in anti-racism conversations through open, respectful, factual dialogue. This work cannot be done without listening to the voices of Black, Indigenous and racialized communities as we strive to be strong and trustworthy allies. |
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Anti-Black Racism Town Hall and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Follow-Up report | ||||
On October 14, 2020, the Anti-Black Racism Town Hall and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Follow-up report was presented during a Committee of the Whole meeting. Enclosed within this report are:
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Anti-Black Racism Town Hall recordings | ||||
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Black History
In December 1995, the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month in Canada.
2022 Black History Month Event
- Black History in Canada
- Black History Timeline
- Black Enslavement in Canada
Addressing anti-Asian racism in Durham
We are committed to calling out and actively working towards disrupting all forms of oppression and violence. We want to create spaces where all people are valued and can feel safe.
No form of hatred, racism or prejudice is okay in our communities. This year, there’s been an increase of incidents of anti-Asian violence. Durham Region stands with our Asian-Canadian colleagues and community members.
For individuals seeking support or further information, see the resources below for more information.
Resources:
- Mental health impacts of anti-East Asian racism during pandemic (Article)
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One year later, COVID-19 still fans the flames of anti-Asian racism (Article)
- Pandemic Rapid-response Optimization to Enhance Community-Resilience and Health - Staying Healthy (Webpage)
Plans, strategies and policies
- Durham Region Strategic Plan
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy
- Durham Immigration and Inclusion Community Plan
- Age-Friendly Strategy and Action Plan
- Community Safety and Well Being Plan
- Accessibility Plan
Committees and working groups
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion News
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November 25, 2021 - Durham Region appoints members to anti-Racism taskforce
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June 28, 2021 Statement from Regional Chair John Henry on Canada Day
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