This afternoon, Municipal Council celebrated this year’s recipients of the Diversity, Race Relations and Inclusivity Award (DRRIA), recognizing each group’s unique contribution in promoting public awareness of diversity, anti-racism, inclusivity and human rights in London:
Oakridge Presbyterian Church Mission and Outreach(Category: Small Business/Labour)
Providing and delivering, across cultures and faiths, large quantities of dehydrated soup to schools, London Mission Services, My Sister's Place, the Indigenous Soup Kitchen and anyone in need of a warm meal at home.
Islamic Relief Canada London Regional Team (Category: Large Business/Labour)
Working throughout the year with local organizations to provide back-to-school backpacks full of supplies, a winter warmth essentials campaign, Truth and Reconciliation assembly, Food Bank and blood donor drives.
Project SEARCH - London Parkwood Institute Internship (Category: Social Community Services Not for Profit, less than 50 members)
Offered by St. Joseph's Health Care London in partnership with the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) and Hutton House, this school-to-work transition program helps prepare students with intellectual disabilities in their last year of high school for the working world.
London Track 3 Adaptive Snow School (Category: Social Community Services Not for Profit, more than 50 members)
Removing accessibility barriers to winter sports by providing inclusive instruction for participants with diverse physical and cognitive disabilities to allow them to learn how to ski or snowboard. This program offers opportunities to experience winter activities that would not be otherwise possible for many.
Yesalihuni "They Will Teach You” Youth Initiative (Category: Youth/Young Adult Groups or Organizations)
Empowering Indigenous youth and fostering truth and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, this transformative program addresses mental health challenges, promotes self-empowerment, and offers a safe space for artistic expression and growth among Indigenous youth.
Throughout the year, nominations are accepted and reviewed by the Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-Oppression Community Advisory Committee (DIACAC). Recommendations are then made to Municipal Council for consideration, with the annual awards ceremony taking place at the Council Meeting closest in date to International Human Rights Day on December 10.
“Today's Diversity, Race Relations, and Inclusivity Award ceremony highlights the inspiring initiatives that are shaping a more inclusive and united London,” says Mayor Josh Morgan. “Each recipient exemplifies the power of collective action in fostering diversity, combating racism, and championing human rights, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of our city.”
“Each of the groups and organizations recognized today is helping to build a brighter and stronger community,” says Prabh Gill, DIACAC Sub-Committee Chair. “I want to thank the award recipients for their ongoing contributions and making a difference in our city.”
The DRRIA Awards began in 2000. More information is available about the nomination process.