District Chair John Klinck Affirms Commitment to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Anti-Racism

Message from Muskoka District Chair John Klinck

"On Monday January 18th during the District of Muskoka’s Municipal Modernization Committee meeting, a presentation was made by a member of the public that contained racially insensitive remarks that were both entirely inappropriate and contrary to our Community’s collective values and aspirations.

As Chair of both that Committee and the District of Muskoka, I failed to honour both my professional obligation and personal beliefs, and did not exhibit the appropriate leadership qualities by chastising said presenter for the remarks immediately thereafter. Therefore, I offer my sincere apologies to the community, our council and committee for not having done so.

Thankfully, and to their credit, a number of Councillors immediately expressed their extreme dismay with strong statements of condemnation. For that, I would like to thank them - for not only their statements, but also in affirming our community’s commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity and anti-racism.”

Respectfully submitted,