Inclusive approach benefits us all

Re. “Lobbyists would have undue influence under GBA initiative,” David Staples, May 30

Gender Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) is a holistic approach to designing a city that includes and addresses the diverse needs of all citizens.

Applying a GBA+ lens to infrastructure work ensures that accessible sidewalks accommodate the needs of not just women but also seniors, parents with strollers and persons with mobility issues. It makes good business sense to apply this tool from the start to ensure all citizens’ needs are planned for from the start rather than having to make changes later in the process, potentially resulting in delayed work and increased costs.

A recent example showing how GBA+ was effectively used was with the development of council’s 2050 Vision. Children, youth, newcomers, Indigenous individuals, social-serving agencies, hard to reach and faith communities were among some of the groups connected with. The city went to where those groups are located, rather than doing engagement at a city location, online, or via the phone. A robust plan that included the perspectives and needs of many different Edmontonians was developed.

GBA+ isn’t about just considering the needs of women; it’s about looking at the needs and perspectives of all genders and all residents. It’s for all Edmontonians.

Sandra Woitas, chair of The Women’s Advocacy Voice of Edmonton