Sandy Casselman 
LJI Reporter

EMBRUN – Russell’s Community, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee’s Terms of Reference was approved by the municipality’s politicians.

The January 18, 2021 council meeting included meeting minutes from the committee’s 2020 meetings held on October 13, November 30 and December 14.

The October meeting saw Andrea Beauvais elected Vice-Chair of the committee. Russell Mayor Pierre Leroux is the group’s Chair.

During the October meeting, the group decided on four pillars for the committee’s Terms of Reference. These include education, policies and programs review, business support, and communication. Members discussed a variety of items relating to the pillars, including how to support and promote businesses owned and run by minorities, people of colour, and LGBTQ.

This meeting also included an opportunity for members to have a roundtable discussion and answer questions from the public.

The November meeting concentrated solely on completing the Terms of Reference, while the December meeting saw members review and provide input on the completed document before moving to submit the Terms of Reference to the municipal council for approval.

“I am confident this committee will be able to review policies, investigate educational promotional opportunities, and make positive recommendations to council for its consideration,” Mayor Leroux said.

The most recent meeting of the Community, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee was held virtually on January 11, 2021. Mayor Leroux said the group discussed potential policies and by-laws to review.

The tentative date for the next meeting is February 8. Residents can view the meeting by visiting the committees’ page on the municipality’s website.