|
Diversity and the Environment Environmental issues, broadly defined, have a deep and complex effect on the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities in Toronto. The built environment, transportation, pollutants, access to healthy food, energy costs, access to green space and recreational opportunities can affect all Torontonians, but have a greater impact on marginalized and low-income households. Such environmental issues are taking a higher place on the public agenda, yet the perspectives of disadvantaged groups are not being included as much as they should be. Environment sector work has also been found to be less inclusive than it could be; this means that an important and growing sector is excluding people from opportunities.
But slowly, awareness is increasing, and many groups are taking steps to address the gaps.
In the Environmental sector various organizations have been developing programs for newcomer communities, conducting focus groups and research to understand barriers to inclusion and grappling with how to increase diversity within the sector.
In the Community sector, there is a growing interest in food programs, environmental determinants of health, pollution, and the environment as an arena for voluntarism and developing leadership.
At the TGC, we decided that we would like to play a role in helping build bridges across the sectors and in shining a spotlight on these issues. We began this journey by creating a cross-sectoral network.
Diversity, Inclusion and the Environment Network
In the summer of 2008, the TGC invited a select group to our first Diversity, Inclusion and the Environment Network meeting with the objective to promote and support community initiatives that link environmental issues to poverty, marginalization and social exclusion by fostering a cross-sectoral network that encourages collaboration, experience sharing, and capacity building.
By bringing environmental and community organizations together, we hope to inspire partnerships across sectors with the potential to engage and provide benefits to communities in new ways, while also strengthening the environmental sector.
Click on the links below for Network meeting details:
* Aug 11, 2009
* January 13, 2009
* March 31, 2009
* August 26, 2009
Other TGC Diversity Initiatives
In March 2009, the TGC’s speakers series featured a presentation by Cheryl Teelucksingh, author of the book “Environmental Justice and Racism in Canada”, followed by a panel discussion with Beenash Jaffri, Damien Lee, and Ben Powless.
***
The TGC sits on the Advisory Council for the Sustainability network’s Environment & Diversity Project which provides the project collaborative with advice and resources. Click here for more information and updates on the project: http://www.sustainabilitynetwork.ca/environment_project_partners.html
***
Internally the TGC strives to use a diversity lens in all aspects of our operations including inclusive hiring practices, volunteer recruitment, and program development. To this end, we plan to create and implement an anti-oppression policy & organize related training for TGC staff & volunteers.
Stay tuned for future developments…
|
