The City of St. Catharines's Anti-Racism Advisory Committee is a group of volunteers working to improve access and inclusion for diverse cultural communities in St. Catharines and the surrounding area.
Meetings
The Committee meets monthly or at the discretion of the Chair. For a schedule of upcoming meetings view our meeting calendar. You can read our agendas and minutes to stay informed.
Our purpose
The Anti-Racism Advisory Committee was established to:
- Promote and enhance St. Catharines as a welcoming city and improve the quality of life for all residents
- Encourage a range of perspectives, experiences and ideas in decision making
- Remove barriers for members of racialized communities that exist in City programs, services and spaces
- Support the creation, review and implementation of the City's public policies and programs
- Organize civic events and recognize significant cultural days or events with community partners
- Provide public education on programs, services and issues of interest
Members
Membership terms align with Council terms or as determined by Council. The Committee may invite non-member participation as needed. The current members are:
- Jenniffer Anand
- Roxolana Chwaluk
- Anika Forde, Manager of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (staff liaison)
- Aaron Grant
- Samah Marei
- Melissa MacMillan
- Fatima Sheikh
- Rin Simon
- Vicki-Lynn Smith (Vice-Chair)
- Saleh Waziruddin (Chair)
- Erica Williams
Composition
The committee consists of up to 10 members. Preference will be given to applicants with relevant lived experience; allies and advocates; and the majority of members should have relevant lived experience.
The Chair of the Anti-Racism Advisory Committee, or another member appointed by the committee, will also be a member of the Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee.
Reporting structure
The Committee reports to Council through the Social Sustainability Committee. The Chair of the Anti-Racism Advisory Committee will also be a member of the Social Sustainability Committee.