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HP OPINION LET'S AMPLIFY ALL VOICES IN OUR COMMUNITIES EQUALITY AND INCLUSION MUST BE OUR MANDATE THROUGHOUT HALTON, WRITES MATTHEW CONROY MATTHEW CONROY Column We VOTE 2021 theifp.ca /vote2021 In June, I wrote about the importance of Pride and acknowledging that the 2SLGBTQ+ communi- ty exists every day. While that statement still stands strong, we must also of how we can continue to createamomen- tous celebration of thediver- sity within Halton. As the region's popula- tion continues to grow, we need to provide space and platforms for marginalized to actively Metroland's Halton newspapers reached out to members of their Halton Advisory Council to share their views on local issues in conjunction with the federal election. Here's the second part of a three-part series. I AaINLe participate in the conver- sations and opportunities that are given to those with privilege. According to the 2020 Community Safety and Well-Being Population Level Indicator Report, 72 percent of Halton residents AIDS that foyalat roi mVoler-lareavelelg loved ones, no matter where you are! Georgetown (In the Knolcrest Centre) “As resident concerns continue to arise, such as anti-Black racism, homophobia or transphobia, continuous and momentous changes and shifts in behaviour are needed.” aged 12 and over felt a very, or somewhat strong, sense of community belonging. though this could be interpreted as a positive, high percentage, I have to wonder which identities are included within it. This is especially con- cerning given that in Feb- ruary of this year, the Hal- ton Police Board stated that the number of report- ed hate-related incidents in the region increased by 160 per cent in 2020. This increase indicates a growing number of rea- sons why residents would not feel safe, or that they belong, wit bourhoods. As residents' concerns continue to arise —such as anti-Black racism, homo- phobia or transphobia — continuous and momen- tous changes and shifts in behaviour are needed. When consulting with communities and provid- ing opportunities for en- gagement, especially when focusing on diversity and inclusion, it needs to be done in a way that embrac- es, empowers and empha- sizes diverse and intersec- and professionally. Diversi- ty and inclusion matter be- cause unities should feel comfortable, safe and represented across the region. Let! 'S strive to tional identities. e need to ensure that these are in- cluded every step of the way with every initiative, as it is truly the only way to include lived experiences and hear directly from them what changes need to be made so that we can in- crease that sense of com- munity belonging. For example, we cannot create inclusive spaces within our region without consulting directly with our 2SLGBTQ+ communi- work in decolonization and reconciliation without having direct input and feedback from our Indige- nous community. We must be intentional with the work and practices that we do, both personally use our pr equal portunities for those who are often left oUt, 9» and then we can begin make inclusive, sustain. © able and impactful changes that will hopefully help our residents feel like they be- ing in Halton. Matthew Conroy is the 2SLGBTQ+ youth drop-in co-ordinator for Positive Space Network, affiliated with the Reach Out Centre Jor Kids (ROCK). He can be reached at mat- thewc@rockonline.ca. ss ‘SCAN THIS CODE a ‘fl FOR THE FIRST IN THIS ELECTION COLUMN SERIES. ame LLALTON oom AUDIOMETRIC CENTRE HEARING AIDS & AUDIOMETRY Call now for a preview of the next generation of hearing aid technology! Georgetown’s trusted choice for hearing care 905.877.8828 360 Guelph St., Unit 44 ye TE alge READERS’ | =r — CHOICE 2021 | “"*™” "DIAMOND WINNER The dpb Group ius HOMEANDLIFESTYLESHOW.CA “ASK THE EXPERTS” = SAVWY DESIGN & DECOR TRENDS SMART RENOS & LANDSCAPING == GIFT GIVING & ENTERTAINING FREE Sm... PEEL) G88 on PET FRIENDLY “ee {ST CONSUMER SHOW IN 18 MONTHS! SEPTEMBER 10-12 FRI: 4PM-9PM | SAT: IDAM-7PM | SUN: IDAM-5PM CALEDON,ON ALBION BOLTON COMMUNITY CENTRE ees "2 seqwerdeg ‘AepsinuL | SiH UoweH dl UL | 6 eordyouy