Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging

We recognize that this is the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg, Haudenosaunee, and Wendat peoples who lived on this land for thousands of years. We acknowledge that we are on the Treaty Lands of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, making us all treaty people. We are grateful for their teachings about Mother Earth and how we can care for and protect her for future generations. (See https://native-land.ca/ to learn more about traditional territories.)

We believe that recognizing and acknowledging the Indigenous peoples and traditional lands on which we reside is an essential first step in the journey towards true reconciliation. As an organization, we understand that there is much to learn and listen to, and we are committed to continuously educating ourselves and listening to the voices and experiences of Indigenous peoples. We recognize that reconciliation requires ongoing, consistent action and that this is a long-term process. However, we are committed to taking every step towards creating communities in which all people are valued and celebrated. We believe that with continued learning, understanding, and action, we can create a better and more equitable future for all.

MCRC's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Statement

To support a safe, caring community where children and families are valued, grow, and succeed, MCRC is committed to creating programs and services that celebrate diversity, and value inclusion and equity.

We invite all those who enter MCRC to embrace your authentic selves, and bring with you your cultural identity, religious identity, gender identity, unique abilities, and ethnic identity.

MCRC is intentional about fostering inclusive and equitable spaces. We believe that inclusion requires commitment and equity to be embraced. To do so, we continually raise awareness of the need for action toward Truth and Reconciliation, against anti-Black racism, against Islamophobia and injustices faced by religious minorities, toward 2SLGBTQIA+ rights, toward rights for those living with disabilities, and against the systemic oppression of marginalized individuals.

Indigenous Teachings

MCRC is taking consistent steps towards the goals of reconciliation as a community-focused organization. We believe that all children are sacred and that Every Child Matters. We foster an environment where Indigenous culture is honoured and uplifted:

We actively engage with an Indigenous Consultant and Facilitator to seek guidance and support on incorporating Indigenous teachings into our programs and services
We host regular Indigenous Talking Circles that surround topics such as how we implement the spirit of reconciliation; address myths and misconceptions; activities and resources for young children
We are always learning about and working to implement ways to honour Indigenous teachings and culture into our classrooms, library, and spaces
We continuously seek out professional learning opportunities for staff to foster our knowledge on Indigenous teachings and practices
We honour Orange Shirt Day, and to raise awareness that Every Child Matters, and are always looking for opportunities to incorporate Indigenous teachings into our programs and services
In keeping with TRC Call to Action No. 12 we are developing culturally appropriate early childhood programs

We would like to highlight notable Indigenous resources that supports our journey toward Truth and Reconciliation:

Resources

Local organizations that elevate the voices of marginalized communities:

MCRC aims to celebrate organizations who focus on elevating marginalized communities within Halton. This is not an exhaustive list; we welcome additions to this list to raise awareness of the strides toward equity and inclusion within our community.

African Caribbean Council of Halton

Black Mentorship Inc.

Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton

Grandmother’s Voice

Halton Black Voices

Mending the Chasm

Muslim Advisory Council of Canada

PFlag Halton

Positive Space Network

True Roots Counselling Services

Halton Equity and Diversity Roundtable