LILY WHITE MUSKOKA MOVES TO END ITS ‘SYSTEMIC RACISM’

Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com

BRACEBRIDGE — In response to Black Lives Matter demonstrations that took over local main streets last week, the district is finally moving toward ending “systemic racism” in Muskoka — including its own lilly white workforce.

Monday, councillors “unanimously” passed a resolution “recognizing current calls for social reform to address systemic racism and acknowledging the need to promote and advocate for equity and inclusion for all residents, visitors, and communities in Muskoka.”

While Muskoka has in the past been predominantly WASPish, the district’s changing demographic has barely been reflected in any of its governments or NGO institutions.

Many Muskoka convenience stores and chain restaurants do a better job.

A release from them Tuesday said it “endorses the belief that a community’s social fabric and prosperity is enhanced when it is committed to the dignity of every human being and demands all residents have equal opportunity for positive educational, financial, social and health outcomes.”

Staff have been asked to recommend funding and “best practices” from municipalities with programs, initiatives and tools “to promote and celebrate diversity in their communities.”

So it says the district can:

  • “Work in partnership with our communities and stakeholders to promote and celebrate diversity and inclusivity;
  • “Promote opportunities for dialogue, to strengthen relationships;
  • “And to combat systemic racism.”

No timeline was mentioned on when to expect the report or how soon actions will result from beyond the round-table talk.

“Communities that have established programs and initiatives supporting diversity help to create a more inclusive society, strengthen community relations, and are better able to attract people of all backgrounds to live, work and visit,” said District chair John Klinck in the release June 16.

“Council’s mission statement recognizes the need to work together to ‘enhance the inclusiveness of our caring community’ and this resolution will help us move this important work forward to the benefit of all individuals living or visiting our communities in Muskoka.”

Black Lives Matter in Muskoka as demonstrations in support have filled streets at the OP in Gravenhurst last week in a peaceful protest and across Muskoka calling for an end to systemic racism in the world and at home. (Social media photo)

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