HRM Launches First Annual Workplace Diversity Week

News Release

HRM Launches First Annual Workplace Diversity Week

(Tuesday, September 12/2000)-- For the first time next week, Halifax Regional Municipality will sponsor a program in the workplace to celebrate Diversity Week.

A number of activities are planned and the media is invited to attend these events.

The purpose of Diversity Week, to be held September 17-23, is to:

• Increase understanding of the role diversity plays in the HRM workplace,
• Raise awareness of the barriers facing the members of different communities within the HRM workplace,
• Identify ways to support and increase diversity: and
• Celebrate the benefits diversity brings to the HRM workplace.

ACTIVITIES:

Monday, September 18th Official "Kick-off"

1:00p.m. to 3:00p.m., Halifax Hall

Guest Speakers -

Mayann Francis, Executive Director, Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission
Blye Frank, Associate Professor, Educational Foundations, Mount Saint Vincent University

Tuesday, September 19th Mission Possible - An Ability Challenge

11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Halifax Hall

An opportunity to gain a better understanding of the every day challenges faced by persons with disabilities. Teams of HRM staff and HRM officials will be challenged to complete some every day missions with a difference. Starting at 11 am on Tuesday, September 19, 2000 in Halifax Hall, teams and their missions will be assigned. Missions will include equipment that will allow participants to perform their mission in a wheelchair; as a visually challenged individual or as a hearing impaired individual.

Wednesday, September 20th - An Employment Equity Forum - Together We're Better

10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon - Halifax Hall

A frank discussion with Community Organizations who focus on securing employment opportunities for members of the designated Employment Equity communities.

Thursday, September 21st - Building Cultural Competency Training

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. - Halifax Hall

A training program which will focus on the specific skills necessary to work effectively in today's diverse workplace. This training is an excellent foundation to assist individuals in attaining a high level of competency in the area of Valuing Diversity , (which is an HRM Core Competency)

Friday, September 22nd - Multicultural/Heritage Potluck

11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. - Various Locations

Throughout HRM work sites, Business Units are encouraged to hold pot-luck lunches. The goal is to invite employees to share dishes wear clothing which reflect their own heritage and culture with their colleagues.

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John O'Brien
Corporate Communications Officer
(902) 490-6531

Charla Williams
HRM Employment equity Coordinator
(902) 490-6154