Embracing diversity
Kentville launching diversity and belonging task force
“Diversity and inclusivity help create a more just and equitable society.”
Roxy Peterson
As the most populous town in the Annapolis Valley, Kentville is also one of the fastest growing municipalities in Nova Scotia.
Recognizing and celebrating the diversity that comes with growth is key to building a successful community, says Roxy Peterson, Neighbourhood Outreach Program coordinator with the Town of Kentville.
Peterson is facilitating the launch of a new diversity and belonging task force in the town. The one-year mission of the task force is to find out if Indigenous, African Nova Scotian, LGBT+, those with physical and psychological challenges, and other groups feel adequately represented by the town, and to review new anti-racism policies.
“We want to create a space where everyone can be heard,” Peterson says. “There should be a sense of belonging among all the communities that comprise Kentville.”
The goal is to have at least six volunteer members on the task force and to be up and running by the end of April. Calls for submissions of interest went out earlier this year and some 11 official applications for positions on the task force are currently being reviewed by members of the town’s accessibility and inclusion committee and chief administrative officer.
“The task force will have an intersectional perspective,” Peterson says. “We will have members representing all of the various communities.”
Reclaiming lost historical knowledge is one of the great benefits and goals of embracing diversity. By broadening the historical record, people from all backgrounds have the opportunity to share their stories and culture with future generations. Located just north of Kentville, Gibson Woods and Pine Woods are among the 52 historical black communities in Nova Scotia and part of more than 400 years of heritage and contributions.
“We do our own history an injustice when we don’t recognize the contributions of all people,” Peterson says. “If we are going to build healthy communities and welcome new people. We need to celebrate those who have done the work to make this a great place to live.”
He cites the Ubuntu philosophy, an African-origin value system that emphasizes the interconnectedness of individuals with their surrounding social and physical worlds. It is often translated as “I am because we are” or “humanity towards others.”
“We all bring value and we are all connected,” Peterson points out. “I attribute my success to the community I grew up in — my parents, siblings and friends — and I look to give that back.”
The continued growth that Kentville is expecting will bring new challenges to the municipality and having new ideas and fresh perspectives at the table will help unlock a community’s full potential, Peterson adds.
“Diversity and inclusivity help create a more just and equitable society,” he says. “Bringing people together who have a wide range of perspectives can lead to more innovative solutions and creativity, and better decision making at the end of the day.”