The Anti-Racism & Equity Advisory Committee was established to develop a plan of action to combat racism in the community of Thunder Bay. The Committee will be available to Administration and City Council to provide advice on current policies and practices, diversity and racism, and such new initiatives that might from time to time be developed.
Anti-Racism Support & Reporting
Resources have been developed to help if you have experienced or witnessed incidents of racism. Visit our Anti-Racism Support webpage to access resources or report an incident of racism.
2SLGBTQIA+ Welcome Sticker Initiative
Displayed across all City facilities, the new 2SLGBTQIA+ Welcome Sticker features the colours and symbols of the Progress Pride Flag, indicating that Thunder Bay is a safe, inclusive, and supportive space for individuals of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions.
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What is the 2SLGBTQIA+ Welcome Sticker Initiative? The 2SLGBTQIA+ Welcome Sticker Initiative is a program launched by the City of Thunder Bay to promote inclusivity and support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. The initiative involves placing the decals featuring inclusive symbols at the entrances and key locations within all City facilities to signify that these spaces are safe and welcoming for everyone.
Why is the City of Thunder Bay launching this initiative? The City of Thunder Bay is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. This initiative is a visible demonstration of our support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and our dedication to creating an environment where all individuals feel safe, respected, and valued.
Where will the stickers be placed? The stickers will be placed at the entrances and other prominent locations within all City facilities, including municipal buildings, community centers, libraries, and parks. They feature the colors of the most updated Progress Pride flag and other symbols that represent inclusivity and support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. The design is intended to be easily recognizable and convey a clear message of welcome and acceptance. This ensures that everyone who visits our City facilities is greeted with a message of inclusivity.
Can my organization display the sticker? Yes, a printable file of the 2SLGBTQIA+ Welcome Sticker can be found here.
How does this initiative support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community? The initiative supports the 2SLGBTQIA+ community by visibly affirming that City facilities are safe and welcoming spaces. It helps to reduce stigma, promote understanding, and foster a sense of belonging for individuals of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions.
What other steps is the City taking to promote inclusivity? In addition to the Welcome Sticker Initiative, the City of Thunder Bay requires all City staff to complete Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) & Gender and Sexual Diversity training. This training provides an understanding of general information on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging with a focus on biases. In addition, this course outlines behaviours that employees can adopt to help build an inclusive work environment.
What are some local pride organizations I can reach out to for more information, or direct our patrons to? Rainbow Collective of Thunder Bay
Who can I contact for more information about the initiative? For more information about the 2SLGBTQIA+ Welcome Sticker Initiative, please contact the Strategy & Engagement Director.
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Anti-Racism & Inclusion Accord
On June 19, 2018, representatives from 11 major organizations signed a Thunder Bay Anti-Racism & Inclusion Accord, and announced a Coalition that will commit to establish goals and report on successes by working together to address racism and discrimination in the community. Learn more about the Accord.
Respect - overcoming racism and discrimination
The Anti-Racism & Respect Advisory Committee has partnered with the Thunder Bay Crime Prevention Council to raise awareness in the community that respect. is a human right. These two organizations came together to launch respect. - a grassroots campaign aimed at challenging racism and discrimination issues head on. Learn about respect. and what is happening in our community.
Learn more about our respect. campaign.
September Diversity & Inclusion Calendar
Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: September is recognized as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about suicide prevention, remembering those affected by suicide, and promoting resources for those in need. This month encourages open conversations about mental health, educates the public on warning signs and risk factors, and emphasizes the importance of seeking help.
| September 2 Labor Day |
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Labor Day, observed on the first Monday in September, honors the contributions and achievements of workers. Established by the labor movement in the late 19th century, it became a federal holiday in 1894. The day not only celebrates workers' rights and their role in building the nation but also marks the unofficial end of summer, often celebrated with parades, parties, and various recreational activities. |
| September 5 International Day of Charity |
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International Day of Charity, observed on September 5, highlights the importance of charitable actions and the impact they have on global well-being. Established by the United Nations in 2012, this day aims to promote and acknowledge the efforts of those who contribute to alleviating poverty and suffering. It encourages individuals, organizations, and governments to engage in charitable activities and recognize the critical role of philanthropy in fostering social justice and enhancing quality of life. |
| September 8 International Literacy Day |
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International Literacy Day, celebrated annually on September 8th, was established by UNESCO to highlight the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights. This day aims to raise awareness about literacy issues around the world and promote efforts to improve literacy rates, ensuring that everyone can acquire essential reading and writing skills. |
| September 10 World Suicide Prevention Day |
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World Suicide Prevention Day, observed annually on September 10th, was established by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). This day aims to raise awareness about suicide prevention, reduce stigma, and promote actionable steps to prevent suicide globally. It unites people worldwide in a common cause, emphasizing that through understanding, reaching out, and sharing experiences, we can create hope and save lives. |
| September 15 International Day of Democracy |
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International Day of Democracy is observed annually on September 15th. In 2024, this day will continue to highlight the importance of democratic principles, such as freedom, human rights, and the rule of law. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, the day serves as a reminder of the need for active participation by all citizens to uphold and strengthen democratic institutions worldwide. |
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September 15 Mawlid al-Nabi |
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Commemorating the birth of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad, this day is an opportunity to explore the rich diversity within Islamic traditions and their global impact. |
| September 16 Mexican Independence Day |
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Mexican Independence Day, celebrated on September 16th, marks the anniversary of the "Grito de Dolores" in 1810, when Miguel Hidalgo, a Catholic priest, called for Mexico's independence from Spanish rule. This day is a significant national holiday in Mexico, featuring parades, fireworks, and reenactments of the historic cry for independence, symbolizing the start of the Mexican War of Independence. |
| September 18 International Equal Pay Day |
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International Equal Pay Day, observed on September 18th, highlights the ongoing efforts to achieve equal pay for work of equal value. Established by the United Nations in 2019, this day raises awareness about the gender pay gap and promotes actions to close it. In 2024, the focus remains on addressing pay disparities and ensuring fair compensation for all, regardless of gender. |
| September 21 International Day of Peace |
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Established by the United Nations, this day is dedicated to promoting peace and non-violence worldwide. It encourages nations and individuals to cease hostilities and engage in activities that foster harmony and understanding. |
| September 21 World Gratitude Day |
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Celebrated globally, this day encourages people to express gratitude and appreciation for the positive aspects of their lives. It aims to foster a culture of thankfulness and improve overall well-being by recognizing and valuing the good around us. |
| September 23 International Day of Sign Languages |
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Celebrated annually on September 23, the International Day of Sign Languages promotes the linguistic identity and cultural diversity of all deaf people and other sign language users. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2017, this day raises awareness about the importance of sign languages in the full realization of the human rights of deaf individuals. It underscores the need for early access to sign language education and services, recognizing sign languages as equal to spoken languages. |
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September 30 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation |
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Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day honors the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process. Both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day take place on September 30. Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day intended to raise awareness of the individual, family and community inter-generational impacts of residential schools, and to promote the concept of “Every Child Matters”. |
One City, Many Voices
The Anti-Racism & Respect Advisory Committee and Diversity Thunder Bay produce a monthly column in the Chronicle Journal to encourage dialogue among residents of the City and surrounding area in order to address some common assumptions or misconceptions. The Committee hopes to promote a greater understanding of race relations in Northwestern Ontario. Please note that the views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the authors.
One City, Many Voices - recent columns |
2020
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2018
2017
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