EMPOWER Strategy Group seeks public input on dismantling Anti-Black Racism action plan

The Town of Newmarket contracted EMPOWER Strategy Group to dialogue with community partners, including the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA), in order to support the Town’s efforts to dismantle Anti-Black Racism. EMPOWER Strategy Group has created their draft action plan and invites the community and stakeholders to review and provide feedback by November 7. Participants can enter into a draw to win gift certificates from local Black-owned businesses by sharing feedback in a survey.

“I want Newmarket to be a place where everyone is welcome and where everyone’s contributions are valued,” says Newmarket Mayor John Taylor. “The work that the Town is doing to dismantle Anti-Black Racism is about making Newmarket more equitable and inclusive. We recognize that there is still a lot of work to do to dismantle Anti-Black Racism. We are committed to continuing to work with NACCA, our partner and the community to take real action and achieve tangible results.”

Community and stakeholder engagement will continue to help shape the draft action plan and further define priorities. Following consultation, a staff report will go to Council for consideration. The Town will conduct an annual review to monitor progress.

The action plan stems from the report by the Town’s Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Task Force (Task Force). The Task Force works to amplify voices from the Black community and is responsible for making recommendations to Council that focus on racial equity opportunities, and on issues or activities that impact the Black community. It is with immense gratitude that the Town recognizes members of the Task Force who volunteer their time and helped to launch this significant work.

The Town would also like to thank NACCA for driving the conversation and helping find solutions to dismantle Anti-Black Racism.

Complete this survey to provide comments and feedback.