With the launch of the Equity and Anti-Racism Action Plan in 2025, the City is taking a coordinated approach to ensure services, programs and decisions better reflect the needs and experiences of Guelph’s growing and diverse community.
The plan focuses on building a community where everyone feels a sense of belonging and can access opportunities. It prioritizes equity and inclusion, addresses racism and discrimination, and strengthens how we engage with and support the community.
The Action Plan also brings together commitments already made through initiatives such as A United Vision: Guelph’s Community Plan, the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities and the Future Guelph Strategic Plan. Aligning these efforts helps move the work forward in a more consistent and coordinated way.
Over time, the plan will shape how City services are designed and delivered. It will help identify and remove systemic barriers and support staff in working with the community to better understand needs and inform decisions.
This work is already underway across the organization. Programs and public spaces are being designed to be more inclusive and responsive so people from all backgrounds feel welcomed and respected. At the same time, the City is taking steps to address racism, discrimination and systemic barriers.
These actions are helping to create a more inclusive city where a sense of belonging is part of everyday life.