Over the last three years I’ve had the privilege to oversee the equity, diversity and inclusion portfolio at the City.
In that time I’ve worked with some remarkable people (Uzma Shakir, Lori Kelly Antonietta Di Salvo (she/her) Jaspreet P. John Dunlop Dan Sadler LaRee Walters-Boadway and many more) who have helped me grow, to question what I think I know, to understand my privilege and role as an ally, and to move from performative to substantive action. It is the most important work I will do in my career.
My colleague Uzma Shakir once referred to me as “confused,” but she meant it in a good way. If you think you know everything, you do not, and you cannot grow. If you are confused (and you should be) you will ask questions, and have uncomfortable conversations. I’m proud to be confused.
Diversity is a given, but equity, inclusion, justice, and empowerment are a choice. I’m proud that the City of Mississauga has made the choice to be more equitable and inclusive. It starts at the leadership level and works its way down - it’s a corporate priority driven by our CAO and leadership team.
Equity and inclusion requires making space for and listening to diverse voices; ensuring the talent pipeline is diversified and everyone has a chance to climb; it means holding leaders accountable for EDI; and it means measuring outcomes and making changes. It requires embracing tough and uncomfortable conversations and moving forward without clear answers or a playbook. Our systems and institutions are imperfect.
I’m proud that the City has embarked on this journey in a meaningful way and that I get to be part of it. Removing barriers, creating space for all voices, and remaking the system to be equitable is fulfilling, if not daunting work. We’re never done, but we are committed to doing the work.
Tonight we hosted a public engagement on how the city names its public spaces. It was a tough conversation, but one that must be had in one of the most diverse cities on the planet. There isn’t a right answer, but if equity, inclusion and empowerment are our guides, we will find the right solution. I’m not sure I could have had these conversations three years ago.
Anyways, I thought I would share. If you want to know what Mississauga is doing on EDI, have a read of our annual report. We welcome ideas and feedback, even if it’s critical.
https://lnkd.in/gxavPne2
Bridge Engineer at Caltrans
1moI’ve worked 3 years here. Definitely a great place to work. Congratulations T&M!