City of Winnipeg kicks off Anti-Racism Week with promise to promote diversity
Posted March 21, 2021 5:06 pm.
WINNIPEG (CityNews) — Winnipeg launched its first-ever Anti-Racism Week as the city aims to make lasting policy changes to embrace inclusion and diversity.
The move coincided with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
It also comes at a time where societal divides have been exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent survey suggests one of every two Canadians who identify as visible minorities say they have felt attacked on social media.
“I know our city has a problem with racism,” said Mayor Brian Bowman this week. “Overt acts of racism, the kind that make the news. And the subtler forms of racism that many people are unaware of. And certainly, systemic racism at every level of government and in our public institutions.
“The level of dialogue, the level of scrutiny that all Winnipeggers are placing on all levels of government, business, not-for-profit is something that has been needed and is something that is helping elevate the dialogue and I think is helping motivate further actions.”
Along with launching Anti-Racism Week, which is designed to spur discussion, the City of Winnipeg is also looking to re-shape how it does business, including its hiring practices.
“I think all governments need to do a better job that the workforce we have better reflects the community we serve,” said Bowman.
The city also wants to explore where and how dollars are spent to better elevate under-represented populations.
“Municipalities are continuing to leverage procurement to grow a more diverse, equitable local economy and provide employment skills and training for disadvantaged individuals and groups and improve health and well-being for all community members,” said Deputy Mayor Markus Chambers.
Winnipeg has also put in place new training designed to identify biases or blind spots employees may have. Anti-oppression, anti-racism, and cultural competency training will be mandatory for all employees.
WATCH: Winnipeg to launch anti-racism week (March 1)
