Delta needs to do even more to ensure its parks, recreation and culture programs serve everybody.
That’s what Mayor George Harvie told his colleagues this week during their discussion on a staff report on the city’s equity, diversity and inclusion programs, saying he’s disappointed that, while the pandemic played a role, there continues to be a “status quo” when it comes to services and programming.
Asking for a report back from staff on potential changes, he said input from Delta’s Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism Committee will help assist in understanding gaps and underserved areas.
The report by the parks, recreation and culture department notes that, based on the latest Census data and recognizing the diverse demographic makeup of the city, it was suggested there may be a need to diversify recreation programs throughout the Delta to better reflect the demographic needs in each of the three communities.
"Equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) are three interconnected concepts that work together to create an environment of respect and fairness. It encompasses people of different ages, races, ethnicities, abilities, genders, religions, cultures and sexual orientation. It is about what makes each of us unique, and includes our backgrounds, personalities, life experiences, and beliefs, our differences that shape our view of the world, our perspective and our approach. It is all of the things that make us who we are. Using an EDI lens is a good place to start when developing and delivering programs and services,” the report explains.
The report also notes that Delta’s new Social Action Plan identifies a number of strategies to improve how programs and services can be developed using an EDI lens, while the creation of the Mobility and Accessibility Committee will help ensure public facilities are accessible for all.
Going forward, staff will continue to apply an EDI lens when planning and implementing programs and delivering services. Staff will look at ways to modify current programs to ensure that all residents are provided with resources and opportunities that meet their needs.
Outlining several actions including developing a planning and program design checklist, the report adds that having the appropriate data will help provide a more targeted approach in program and service delivery.
