City of Owen Sound has an inclusion policy

In their own words:

Successful inclusion requires everyone. Staff at all levels must all be partners in the changes that inclusion, equity, and diversity present for all of us to work better together.

The City’s Human Resources team has worked with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion champions to engage staff and external stakeholders in developing the final strategy.  A common theme of Inclusion was found throughout all the engagement and consultation activities. Thus, the strategy document’s overarching name.

Four priorities have been identified as part of the Inclusion Strategy, including:

  1. Education and Training
  2. Inclusive Communication
  3. Workforce and Committees
  4. Policies Support Diversity

It should be noted that regardless of where or who leads an action, work is happening throughout the Corporation; it takes all of us to create an inclusive work environment.




Add your own story

Your story could be about — An event you attended, your experiences of belonging, people or organizations who have made a difference, something or someone that inspires you, or even a drawing or photo.

see our guidelines & suggestions for more tips

By following these guidelines, your story can inspire and resonate with others, contributing to a collective understanding of what it means to feel welcomed and to belong in a community.

Be genuine and personal

  • Share real-life experiences that reflect your feelings of belonging or moments when you felt welcomed.
  • Include specific details that make your story unique and relatable.

Focus on positivity and inclusion

  • Highlight actions, events, or people that made you feel included and valued in the community.
  • Emphasize the positive impact of these experiences on your sense of belonging.

Respect privacy

  • Obtain permission before mentioning names or identifying details of others involved in your story.
  • Use pseudonyms or general descriptions if permission cannot be obtained.

Reflect diversity

  • Share experiences that showcase the diverse ways people can feel welcomed and included.
  • Consider including different perspectives or cultural contexts in your story.

Avoid negative or discriminatory language

  • Refrain from using language that discriminates, excludes, or diminishes any group or individual.
  • Focus on constructive and uplifting narratives.

Don’t overwhelm with details

  • Avoid including excessive background information or unrelated details that may distract from the core story.
  • Keep the narrative focused on the theme of belonging and welcoming.

Avoid commercial content

  • Do not use your story to promote products, services, or businesses.
  • Keep the content non-commercial and centered on personal experiences.