Community Engagement is Key Priority as District Launches IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Anti-Racism) Project

The District of Muskoka has launched its IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Anti-Racism) project to promote and celebrate diversity, create opportunities for dialogue, strengthen relationships and help combat systemic racism in Muskoka.  The project will explore best practices, programs, initiatives and tools that can be used to support the goal of a more inclusive Muskoka.   The IDEA project was initiated after District Council passed a unanimous resolution on June 15, 2020.

A key priority for the project is to engage the community in conversation and to hear individuals’ perspectives. Community members are encouraged to share their opinions and experiences through a confidential survey available until Nov. 30, 2020 at: www.engagemuskoka.ca/IDEA.  Community members can also sign up for project updates and elect to participate in focus groups or one-on-one discussions to ensure everyone has a chance to share their stories and be heard.   All perspectives are encouraged and welcomed.   Those who complete the survey will be entered into a draw for one of four $100 gift cards.

“We want to hear from our communities to better understand the scope and nature of these challenges in Muskoka,’ said District Chair John Klinck.  “The District has undertaken important work in the areas of inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility in recent years, but District Council knows that now is a time for even greater action, to work together to expand our efforts, to take additional steps to do more, and to connect with and learn from community members.”

The District also plans to create a community-focussed, skills-based advisory group that will act as an advisory body for District Council that will include community members, service providers and other stakeholders.   If you are interested in learning more about the IDEA Advisory Group, please visit www.engagemuskoka.ca/IDEA.

“In addition to the community survey, District staff members will also be engaged to better understand their workplace experiences,” said District CAO Julie Stevens.   “This will help us identify strategies to ensure the District truly is a workplace free from discrimination, and an employer and service provider that embraces and celebrates diversity.”

Using the best practice research and the information collected through the community and staff engagement activities, the District will develop an IDEA Action Plan outlining future initiatives, supports and services to support the goals of the IDEA project in the workplace and in the broader community. 

The IDEA project is an initiative of the Muskoka District Council.  Council has adopted a number of strategic priorities to help manage the legacy of a healthy Muskoka by sustaining a functioning natural environment, recognizing the need for a vibrant economy together with a caring community conscience supporting those in need. This is the basis the mission: Managing Our Legacy Together