Ingersoll Added to a UNESCO List

Friday, 1 September 2023 14:58

Ingersoll is looking for ways to make the town more inclusive for its residents. The town has more resources now, as they have been added to UNESCO's Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities.

INGERSOLL - The list for UNESCO's Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities has grown by one.

The Town of Ingersoll is on the list, and it was the work of the Ingersoll Diversity and Inclusion Committee.

Mayor, Brian Petrie says that becoming part of the list is an exciting time for everyone involved.

"This was a big step forward for the Committee to make that declaration. It means that we are serious, and Council was more than happy to support that unanimously."

Petrie says that the idea for the Committee was brought at the beginning of the current term by Councillor Khadijah Haliru.

He mentions what it will look like going forward for any events that might be hosted.

"So, that will be the work of the Committee. With the declaration, it opens up the doors to a bunch of information and partnerships. They have done a lot of work in Stratford, I know the Committee is looking there for what they have done."

Petrie adds that Ingersoll is a community known for its warmth and hospitality and this recognition by UNESCO affirms the commitment to becoming an even more inclusive and welcoming town.

Deputy Mayor, Lindsay Wilson sits on the Ingersoll Diversity and Inclusion Committee and is excited for this new opportunity.

"Joining the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities represents what is possible when Council works together with its residents and community stakeholders. At its core, the coalition uses a grass roots approach to promote social inclusion, eradicate racism and discrimination and promote human rights. A special thank you to the members of the Diversity and Inclusion committee who have volunteered to champion this work in Ingersoll."

Mayor Petrie says that the Town is looking forward to collaborating with the Coalition in order to work towards making a better future for all residents in Ingersoll.