OUR STORY
The Halton Equity and Diversity Roundtable (HEDR) has a rich and inspiring genesis story that reflects the community's commitment to inclusivity and support for its diverse populations. The journey began in March 2012, when the Knowledge Transfer Committee of the Children’s Mental Health and Developmental Service agencies of Halton sponsored a pivotal conference. This event highlighted the community's urgent request for more resources, training, and support to address the needs of the growing diverse populations in Halton. This call to action sparked the creation of a dedicated diversity committee.
Throughout the following year, the diversity committee worked tirelessly, engaging in multiple community consultations to gather insights and build momentum. Their efforts culminated in a significant community forum in 2013. This forum brought together 65 passionate individuals representing service agencies, diversity groups, and various stakeholders across Halton. United by a shared vision, they officially formed the Halton Equity and Diversity Roundtable (HEDR) in March 2013.
Since its inception, HEDR has grown into a thriving non-profit organization serving the Halton Region. Today, HEDR reaches more than 1,000 people annually and boasts a diverse membership that spans across many sectors, including health, social services, justice, and government. This growth and impact are a testament to the community's dedication to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion for all.
OUR MISSION
To build the capacity of Halton’s community leaders through education, training, and collective impact initiatives aimed at creating a more inclusive, diverse, and equitable society.
OUR VISION
A Halton community where everyone, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances, has equal opportunities to thrive.
Our 4 Pillars
The purpose of the Halton Equity and Diversity Roundtable is to provide the leadership and structure to achieve the following objectives:
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To identify and highlight examples of excellence in diversity and equity related practices in Halton.
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To promote public awareness and education strategies to address equity and diversity issues in our community.
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To collect information on promising practices and activities in other communities and customize them for use and implementation in Halton.
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To advocate for inclusive practices throughout Halton.
In all the Roundtable’s activities we will be collaborative and inclusive in all of our efforts.
CORE VALUES
Diversity: Diversity refers to the presence and representation of individuals with various identities, backgrounds, and perspectives in a particular setting. It encompasses differences in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, abilities, religion, and more. Emphasizing diversity fosters an environment that values and celebrates the unique qualities and contributions of every individual.
Equity: Equity is the concept of ensuring fairness and justice in systems and institutions, particularly by addressing and rectifying historical and systemic disadvantages that certain groups face. It involves identifying and removing barriers that hinder marginalized individuals from accessing resources, opportunities, and social benefits. Equity recognizes that different individuals require different support to achieve equality and equal outcomes.\
Inclusion: Inclusion refers to creating an environment that embraces and values the participation and contribution of all individuals, regardless of their differences. It involves fostering a sense of belonging and ensuring that everyone feels welcomed, respected, and supported. Inclusion goes beyond representation and involves actively removing barriers to participation, encouraging diverse perspectives, and promoting collaboration and collaboration.
Belonging: Belonging refers to the feeling of being accepted, valued, and included in a particular community, organization, or society. It involves creating an environment where individuals feel a sense of connection, acceptance, and support. Belonging recognizes the importance of not only diversity and inclusion but also fostering a culture that nurtures and celebrates the uniqueness of each individual.
Justice: Justice, in the context of diversity, equity, and inclusion, focuses on addressing systemic inequalities and ensuring fair treatment and opportunity for all individuals. It involves examining and rectifying structural biases, discrimination, and disparities in various aspects of life, such as education, employment, healthcare, and criminal justice. Justice seeks to create a society where everyone has equal rights, access, and outcomes, regardless of their identities or backgrounds.
Truth & Reconciliation: Truth and Reconciliation is a process that acknowledges and addresses historical injustices, particularly in the context of systemic oppression and human rights violations. It involves uncovering and acknowledging the truth about past wrongdoings, creating opportunities for dialogue, healing, and understanding, and working towards reconciliation and building a more equitable future. Truth and Reconciliation processes aim to foster social healing, promote accountability, and
bridge divides between communities that have experienced conflict or marginalization.
