Some Woolwich candidates have a diverse vision for the township's future
CBC
Woolwich Township council failed to move forward a notice of motion supporting diversity and inclusion in the community last week.
The motion was raised in response to controversial comments made by a councillor regarding a rainbow crosswalk.
Council says the topic will be discussed again at a meeting next month, ahead of the municipal election.
With a new council set to be elected on Oct. 24, CBC Kitchener-Waterloo reached out to all current incumbents and candidates to ask about their vision for diversity and inclusion in the township.
"My vision for Elmira and the Woolwich Township community for diversification and inclusion is that everybody is somebody and every voice must be heard, regardless of your identity," said Ward 1 candidate, Cheryle Baker.
Nathan Cadeau of Ward 1 also has an inclusive vision, explaining that he's an 2SLGBTQ+ ally and teaches a diversity course at Conestoga College as part of their community and criminal justice program.
"I have ideas on what we need to do," Cadeau said. "I know that there are tools already out there in the community that we could access in order to develop a comprehensive anti-discriminatory strategy."
Candidate Dan Holt said that his township is "a more diverse community than some people think."
"We want to be seen as inclusive and welcoming to all, not in spite of differences but because of the diversity of experiences, identities and backgrounds, which leads to learning about the world and new ideas and ways of doing things, making a richer living experience for all of us," Holt said in an emailed statement.
The final candidate for this ward, Evan Burgess, didn't respond to requests for comment.
"As a councillor I defer to the view of council as articulated through [Mayor Sandy Shantz]," said Ward 2 incumbent Fred Redekop, in an emailed statement. "We are committed to diversity and inclusion."
Eric Schwindt is up against Redekop as the only other candidate for the ward. He's spent his whole life in the township, and said that he values inclusivity.
"I think everybody in Woolwich appreciates that this township is a great place to live," Schwindt said. "Lets focus on maintaining that."
When it comes to diversity and inclusion, Paul Bolger of Ward 3 said in an emailed statement that his "duties and responsibilities … are to present [the people's] views and concerns and ensure any decision is consistent with the charter of rights and freedom."
