TIMMINS, ON – The Timmins Economic Development Corporation (TEDC) is leading a project to address racism and discrimination in Timmins and build awareness of the many cultures that exist in the city. Bringing together a diverse group of community partners and local residents, the goal of the project is to help foster a welcoming and inclusive community.
Made possible in part by the Government of Canada, the Timmins Diversity Awareness Project is one of 85 projects selected across the country to receive funding through the Anti-Racism Action Program, which provides funding for projects that address barriers to employment, justice, and social participation among Indigenous Peoples, racialized communities, and religious minorities.
“Our commitment to combating all forms of racism and discrimination is unwavering,” said the Honourable Bardish Chagger, Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Youth. “This project will help address the barriers to employment experienced by newcomers, while making sure that local employers have the resources to create workplaces that are consciously more inclusive. I’m pleased that our government is supporting this local initiative, which will bring awareness to the contributions of racialized newcomers in Timmins.”
“Cultural diversity plays a key role in economic growth and development,” said Fred Gibbons, Chair of the TEDC Board of Directors. “Communities that are open to different cultures and ethnicities benefit from an increased range of skills and experiences, creativity, and innovation.”
Building on a recommendation in the Timmins 2020 Strategic Plan, the Timmins Diversity Awareness Project will include a public awareness campaign sharing individual stories and highlighting the positive contributions of diverse groups in Timmins, as well as a workplace-focused initiative that will provide businesses with resources and tools to promote inclusive workplaces.
“The City of Timmins is pleased to be a partner on this important project,” said Mayor George Pirie. “This is an opportunity to build on the resolution council passed last February to join the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities and commit to creating a more welcoming and inclusive community.”
Project Advisory Group members include local residents, the City of Timmins, Timmins and District Multicultural Centre, Newcomers Encouraging Self-Empowerment in Timmins, Timmins Native Friendship Centre, Kunuwanimano Child and Family Services, Reseau du Nord, Université de Hearst, Collège Boreal, Northern College, Timmins Chamber of Commerce, and members of the Indigenous Advisory Committee.
An online survey is currently open to gather input on incidences of racism and discrimination experienced by community members. The survey can be accessed here.
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For more information, please contact Kelsey Luxton at kelsey.luxton@timmins.ca or (705) 360-2656.
About the TEDC
The TEDC is the city’s non-profit community economic development team. We facilitate and support economic and social activity that creates jobs, diversifies the economy and improves quality of life.
