We wanted to learn how best the new City of Toronto can support communities concerned about access and equity. We also examined how best access and equity values and principles can be integrated into the City's role as policy maker, advocate, provider and regulator of services, contractor and employer. Yes, the City of Toronto needs to continue with policies and programs that aim to remove barriers and encourage full participation of its residents in every aspect of the city. Such policies and programs will promote Toronto internationally as a first-class, vibrant and liveable global urban centre.
Diversity enriches a society and the people who live there.
It is to the benefit of the City of Toronto to value and tap into the wealth of resources diversity has to offer, whether it be in the arts, culture, or business development. The Task Force has put together an interim report, recommending a vision statement and seven principles on access and equity for City Council to adopt and integrate into all aspects of the City's policies, programs and services. We're also recommending a political, a community involvement and a departmental structure on addressing access and equity issues in the City. In October, we are holding a series of consultations to check back with our diverse communities on whether we have heard them correctly, and whether they feel the commended vision statement, principles and structures reflect and address their opinions. I encourage you all to take the time to review our recommendations and provide your valuable feedback on the proposals.