If you want Bradford’s future to include a safe and welcoming culture for everyone, you might want to check out this upcoming event.
The town’s diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) advisory committee is inviting everyone to attend a panel discussion themed “Building Bridges for an Inclusive Future” in the Zima room of the Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library from 7 to 9 p.m. on Jan. 24.
Committee chair and Ward 1 Coun. Cheraldean Duhaney explained the event is intended to help the community connect and build lasting relationships of trust and accountability.
“This event is very important because it brings people together from different geographical, economical and demographic backgrounds,” she said. “Building bridges provides a platform for everyone to collaborate and be respectful, learn from each other and create a space of inclusivity and belonging.”
Duhaney is planned to host the discussion between a panel of 10 local thought leaders and advocates including:
- Omolara Akerele — Olundara Foundation and BWG Action Group
- Nusrat Awan — BWG Action Group
- Niki Tokhi — youth council advisory committee
- Faran Ahmad — youth council advisory committee
- Syreeika Pryce — youth council advisory committee
- Ashley Mosquera — Odenaang Circle
- Rebecca Reda — DEI committee
- Jennifer Lloyd — BWG Women’s Group and Rise Up BWG
- Hira Aftab — Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Association
- Oksana kobzar — Ukrainian Community of Bradford
The committee is encouraging residents to take part in “shaping a united, equitable future for all,” by attending the event to discuss strategies for creating spaces where everyone feels valued and empowered.
There is no registration requirement and anyone interested can just drop in.
The committee is planning to host more discussion events in future, with the next one anticipated to take place in the spring; more details will be released at a later date.
The mission of the DEI committee is addressing inequities across marginalized communities and improving the sense of belonging, representation and security among all residents.
