Renfrew will move forward with a pair of diversity and inclusion projects, after all.
Town Council has unanimously reversed a decision made at last week’s Community Services committee meeting to not take any action on a multicultural mural at Town Hall as part of their Community Support, Multiculturalism, and Anti-Racism Project.
Most of the opposition to the mural came from the choice to place it on the side of Town Hall, but Council would unanimously approve a new motion at their meeting on Tuesday, November 28th, that moved the project out to the Visitors Information Centre on O’Brien Road, much to the excitement of Councillor Andrew Dick.
Renfrew’s Community Support, Multiculturalism, and Anti-Racism Project is still under development and will be funded by a grant from Heritage Canada worth just over $55,500.
Meanwhile, the evening also provided a narrow victory for a symbol of inclusion for the local LGBTQ+ community.
Council voted 4-3 to proceed with a project to paint a rainbow crosswalk along Railroad Avenue, on which the town has been working with Renfrew Pride and Pflag Renfrew County since 2021.
Speaking in opposition, Councillor John McDonald stressed that he celebrates freedom and inclusion for everyone but believes public places should remain neutral.
Councillor Jason Legris would also vote against the crosswalk project, noting that similar pride-themed crosswalks in neighbouring communities quickly end up worn out and “not looking great.”
Legris added that he will continue to work with local diversity, equity, and inclusion groups to create “something inclusive at the Visitors Information Centre that represents every group and resident of Renfrew.”
Mayor Tom Sidney would counter that he believes being elected to council itself was the mandate for this type of action, and not taking the opportunity to send the message to a marginalized community that they are seen and respected would move the town backward.
Sidney says not completing the crosswalk would also send a message, but not one he wants to send.
Councillor Andrew Dick would also voice strong support for the rainbow crosswalk, emphasizing that it would hold “immense significance” regardless of any opposition it might incur.
He would also clarify that his original “no” vote at the committee level was due to the language in the motion, which would have used money from the Heritage Canada grant instead of funds already raised by Renfrew Pride and community allies.
Reeve Peter Emon and Clint McWhirter would also vote in favour, while Kyle Cybulski would add the third vote against.
(written by Kasey Egan)