Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Coalition to host open house

Brent Jones
May 5, 2025 at 8:57 PM

The Fort Erie Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Coalition will host a public open house on May 22 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Fort Erie Public Library’s Centennial branch.

The event, which will take place in the library’s boardroom at 136 Gilmore Road, will feature a presentation at 6:30 p.m., but community members are encouraged to drop in at any time during the evening.

According to a recent post to the Town of Fort Erie’s Facebook page, attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions, learn about the coalition’s recent activities, preview upcoming events and find out how to get involved in its ongoing initiatives.

Formed in 2020 at the invitation of Mayor Wayne Redekop, the coalition is a volunteer advisory group tasked with supporting council on matters related to equity, diversity and inclusion.

Its goal is to help foster “a safe, inclusive and equitable community where diversity and inclusivity are strengths that are enjoyed by every resident of and visitor to Fort Erie.”

The coalition has led or participated in a range of community-focused initiatives, including annual cultural events at Greater Fort Erie Secondary School and the 2023 Mayor’s Forum on Diversity and Inclusion, which saw more than 300 participants attend.

In collaboration with ROCK Diversity, the group also developed a two-year strategic plan following training and brainstorming sessions held in 2024.

More recently, the coalition partnered with the South Niagara Chambers of Commerce to launch a webinar series for local businesses. The series aims to provide tools and guidance to help employers foster inclusive workplaces. Sessions are scheduled to take place in September, October and November of this year.

For more information or to connect with the coalition, residents can visit the “Let’s Talk Fort Erie” website or contact co-chairs Jennifer Pennell-Ajie and Ashley Pitawanakwat at edicoalition@forterie.ca.