The Town of Ingersoll has been accepted into an esteemed coalition of inclusive and welcoming municipalities.
Ingersoll has been recognized by the Canadian Commission for United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s Coalition (UNESCO) of Inclusive Municipalities.
The achievement is testament to the Town’s hard work by Ingersoll’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee, which received unanimous endorsement from council during a regular meeting in August for its overall commitment to building a community that is inclusive to all residents, regardless of one’s background, beliefs, or identities.
Town officials say following the acceptance into the coalition, it will begin to focus efforts into an action plan that celebrates Ingersoll’s diversity, builds on inclusion, and creates a sense of belonging and safety among those who live, work and visit the town.
“Ingersoll is a community known for its warmth and hospitality. This recognition by UNESCO affirms our commitment to becoming an even more inclusive and welcoming town. We look forward to collaborating with the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities and working together to create a better future for all,” read a statement from Mayor Brian Petrie.
Municipalities that become members of the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities commit to investing time and resources towards creating more welcoming communities as part of a network of communities seeking to improve policies against things including racism, discrimination, exclusion and intolerance.
Joining the coalition allows them to share experiences with other municipalities in Canada and gives them access to resources that help eliminate racism and other forms of discrimination. Close to 100 municipalities are part of the coalition. Neighboring communities include London, Stratford and Windsor.
The road towards inclusivity in Ingersoll is ongoing, the Town said. It remains dedicated to creating a thriving community for all.
