High-Level Summary:

The recent city council meeting, attended by key participants such as Councillor Chris Moyes, Mayor Chow, and members from Social Development, Finance, and Administration (SDFA), focused on the activities and accomplishments of the Confronting Anti-Black Racism Advisory Committee. The discussions predominantly centered around Emancipation Month activities, the 10-year action plan to confront anti-Black racism, and broader equity and social policy strategies.

Important Topics Discussed:

1. Emancipation Month Activities:

   • Councillor Moyes highlighted important events like the "Freedom Train" event and the Hoisting of the Black Liberation Flag. He emphasized the closure of Emancipation Month 2024 with the UN International Day of People of African Descent. "We closed Emancipation Month 2024 with the UN International Day of people of African descent," stated Moyes, underscoring the importance of these initiatives.

2. 10-Year Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism:

   • The SDFA representatives noted that final recommendations would be ready by October 3rd. "There will be an opportunity for the committee and all city residents to provide suggestions," they mentioned, highlighting the importance of community engagement.

3. Capacity Building in Governance:

   • The contributions of organizations like Taiu Community Health Center were acknowledged for their role in governance capacity building against anti-Black racism. The SDFA emphasized the need for investment in such organizations.

4. Equity and Access in Social Policy:

   • Elder Mosu raised concerns about the absence of educational components in equity and access strategies. The SDFA responded by clarifying that education is a provincial matter, though equity principles are integrated into their strategies.

5. Technical and Logistical Coordination:

   • The meeting faced technical issues initially, which were resolved with humor and patience. Councillor Moyes appreciated the attendees' patience, saying, "We ask for your patience with any delays and technical issues," referring to the hybrid nature of in-person and virtual meeting protocols.

Opportunities for Input:

• Residents can provide feedback on the 10-year action plan to confront anti-Black racism during the next City Council meeting scheduled for October 3rd. This consultation aims for comprehensive community engagement to refine actionable steps against anti-Black racism.

Motions and Follow-Up Actions:

• Confirmation of Minutes:

  • Title: Motion to confirm minutes of the committee's meeting on May 15, 2024
  • Outcome: Passed

• Item 1: Increasing Equity and Access Social Policy Strategies:

  • Outcome: Deferred
  • Follow-Up Actions: Discussion to be pursued further to address raised questions.

• Follow-Up Actions:

  • Finalize recommendations for the 10-year action plan, with a review set for October 3rd.
  • Further discussions on integrating equity and access strategies with provincial education systems.

Councillors Present:

• Councillor Chris Moyes
• Mayor Chow
• Elder Mosu
• Other representatives from the Social Development, Finance, and Administration division (SDFA)
• Various public participants