Multiculturalism & Diversity

Role of Social Planning in Multiculturalism and Diversity

Social Planning has the specific role within the civic system to address community and social issues and particularly as they affect disadvantaged groups and individuals. With the changing demographics in the city, Social Planning has continued to play an active role in ensuring that multicultural and diversity issues remain a corporate priority and to provide support to Council, other departments and community organizations in addressing those issues. The department has dedicated staff working on multicultural and diversity issues, with particular focus on the following areas:

• to provide recommendations to Council and other stakeholder groups concerning inclusive civic policies and strategies;
• to work with Council's Special Advisory Committee and other levels of government and jurisdictions to identify emerging issues concerning culturally diverse communities and their needs and to recommend appropriate actions or responses;
• to liaise or work with other civic departments and staff on issues related to cultural diversity and its challenges;
• to liaise with and assist diverse communities and organizations to address current and emerging trends and needs in this area;
• to recommend funding or seek resources to address critical and emerging issues concerning diverse communities.

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