The Town of Georgina believes in a town for everyone. Our community is becoming more diverse and so are the needs and wishes of its residents. On this page you will find resources, helpful links and information for our residents and community groups.
Anti-racism statement from the Mayor
Anti-racism statement from Mayor Margaret Quirk and Karen McGill, former Chair of Georgina’s Equity and Diversity Advisory Committee - read the full statement
Anti-bullying statement from Council and the CAO
Anti-bullying statement from Mayor Margaret Quirk, the Council and the CAO Ryan Cronsberry – read the full statement
Accessibility inclusion
In partnership with the York Support Services Network and Children’s Treatment Network, the Town strives to make its programs as inclusive as possible to better serve children, youth, adults and seniors with special needs. The Town also has a Georgina Accessibility Advisory Committee which works to enhance efforts to make the Town accessible for everyone. Learn more about the accessible features and programs in Georgina.
Municipal Diversity and Inclusion Group (MDIG)
York Regional Police (YRP) reports an increase in hate incidents in recent years. In 2023, they report that the most common motivational factors for hate crimes were race/ethnicity (46%) and religion (38%). Between 2022 and 2023, hate crimes motivated by religion and sexual orientation increased the most compared to other motivational factors.
Hate has no home in York Region. No one should feel unsafe simply because of who they are.
We all have a role to play to make sure York Region is a welcoming, inclusive and safe place for everyone. By standing up against hate, we are showing our commitment to creating communities where diversity is celebrated and everyone participates freely in society, develops to their full potential, lives with respect and dignity, and is free from discrimination.
As a member organization of the Municipal Diversity and Inclusion Group (MDIG), and an endorsee of the Inclusion Charter for York Region, we are proud launch an #EndHateYR education and awareness campaign.
The campaign, developed in close collaboration with YRP’s Hate Crimes Unit provides education and awareness about hate-motivated crimes and incidents, the impact on individuals and the community and how community members can work together to eliminate hate and support those impacted. The first phase of the campaign, founded on research and developed in partnership with YRP, will educate residents of York Region about the difference between hate crimes and incidents and encourage them to report hate crimes and incidents when they see them. To learn more about this campaign, follow the #EndHateYR hashtag or visit york.ca/EndHate
Inclusion charter
The Inclusion Charter for York Region was developed by the Municipal Diversity and Inclusion Group (MDIG), which includes 20 member organizations that serve people who live, work and visit here.
View the Town of Georgina’s Inclusion Charter
York Region Inclusive Language Guide
Language plays a key role in shaping cultural and societal attitudes and using inclusive language is a powerful way to promote equality and eradicate biases. When we use and promote inclusive language, we are creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment that encourages people to be authentically who they are.
York Region is pleased to launch the Inclusive Language Guide, which was developed as one of many actions resulting from the Inclusion Charter for York Region in consultation with the Municipal Diversity and Inclusion Group (MDIG).
View the full York Region news release.
York Region Diversity Calendar
A diversity calendar helps raise awareness about faith, cultural and other significant dates throughout the year. Learning about each other is fundamental to our commitment to inclusion. Ethno-cultural and faith-based holidays are an important part of many people’s lives and being aware of these events and observances can help foster an inclusive and welcoming environment.
Pride in Georgina
In June of each year, the Town of Georgina raises the Rainbow flag at the Civic Centre to proclaim Pride Month and to recognize the challenges and celebrate the history, courage, diversity, and contributions of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, Questioning, and Two-Spirit Communities (LGBTQ2S+). The Town is committed to addressing the unique challenges still facing the LGBTQ2S+ communities to build a more inclusive and equitable Town.
Resources:
Truth and Reconciliation
The Town of Georgina would like to acknowledge the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation as our close neighbour and friend, one with which we strive to build a cooperative and respectful relationship.
We also recognize the unique relationship the Chippewas have with the lands and waters of this territory. They are the water protectors and environmental stewards of these lands, and we join them in these responsibilities.
Visit the Government of Canada website to learn more about how it’s working to advance reconciliation and renew the relationship with Indigenous peoples, based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership. Visit the Town of Georgina’s Truth and Reconciliation page for Land Acknowledgement and resources.