The one constant in two Town of Arnprior municipal meetings where Racism and Diversity in the community have been discussed is the lack of unanimity around the term, “systemic.”
But where elected representatives were caught off guard by proposals that would have seen them move discussion and self-education forward on December 14th, the ensuing nine days between the regular December municipal meeting, and a Special Meeting of Council called for December 23rd has seen much soul-searching among members of the governing body.
Council has voted a public apology to affected community members.
Seconded by Chris Toner, the apology was moved by Lisa McGee.
A resolution on an Action Plan, first shared by the Mayor on December 14th, was amended to include participation in two virtual resource sessions coming up in January, and the acquisition of a Town membership in Coalition of Municipalities Against Racism and Discrimination (CMARD).
Representative Lynn Grinstead sees actions taken by Council Wednesday as a continuation of a process began when the Town adopted its Strategic Plan two years ago.
She feels social media discussion on the topic has been an education in more ways than one.
Mayor Stack, whose abstention was the sole dissenting voice, says he hopes he can come to grips with a reality he cannot yet see.
Council’s discussion at the Special Meeting concluded within half an hour- with more to follow in the New Year.
