THE Delta Council at the Tuesday regular meeting approved a new Mayor’s Task Force on Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism. This task force will include Mayor George V. Harvie, Councillor Alicia Guichon, Councillor Dylan Kruger and members of the community as it works to provide recommendations to the Council on actions and initiatives to support diversity and inclusion and combat racism and discrimination at the City and in the community.

The Task Force will operate under the following guiding principles:

* Recognize that racism and discrimination exists in Delta.
* Ensure that the views and perspectives of all members and contributors are treated with respect and are thoughtfully considered.
* Work collaboratively with the community when appropriate to inform recommendations to Council.
* Seek to listen, learn, and recommend meaningful actions.
The Council also directed an external review of the City of Delta’s policies and actions taken related to diversity and inclusion to provide a report card and recommendations for improvement.

Harvie said: “We must come together, listen and learn, and take strong actions to promote diversity and inclusion in this community while we work to oppose racism wherever we find it. This new Task Force and the review of City policies and actions, are important steps for both the City and the community. I look forward to working with my Council colleagues and members of the community to find meaningful and tangible ways to take action on this vital issue. We must eradicate racism from Delta as we celebrate the incredible strength of our diversity.”

The Mayor’s Task Force on Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism will meet every other month as it works to bring forward recommended actions to promote anti-racism, improve diversity at the City, and increase community engagement on these key issues.

View the Mayor’s report to Council for more information about Delta’s efforts to promote diversity.