Stony Plain Building Community through Celebrating Inclusion

A new community event in honour of International Day of Persons with Disabilities is coming to town! The Town of Stony Plain is actively working to improve inclusivity and create a more welcoming community through the Together we Shine initiative. A key focus of this year’s campaign is promoting awareness of and celebrating persons with disabilities.

Work on promoting inclusion and diversity within Stony Plain has been ongoing, with the 2019 Community Report on Inclusion and Diversity sparking new approaches to community building at the municipal level. The Together We Shine initiative was established as a key priority for the Town with its inclusion in the Corporate Plan 2022-2024. Needs assessments and public engagement sessions have been underway to identify important steps to connecting community, building supportive relationships, and reducing barriers and prejudices.

“Celebrating inclusion builds a stronger, more resilient, and more connected community where everyone has opportunities to thrive. There is a lot of great work being done at the ground level between the municipality and community partners, and we are excited to see inclusion initiatives gaining traction,” says Mayor William Choy.

“We know that communities committed to promoting inclusion experience an increased sense of cohesiveness and belonging. When people feel welcome and involved in their community, safety and security are enhanced. Creating a strong and connected community begins with ensuring every resident knows they are valued and knows they are welcome in their community,” says Community Development Officer Deanna Butz. “The upcoming event is a fantastic opportunity to create space for people in our community living with disabilities and bring everyone together to learn and connect.”

The observance of International Day of Persons with Disabilities aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. The local celebration will be hosted on December 3 at the Stony Plain Public Library. The event will begin at 11AM and feature an information booth presented by Goodwill, local community champions sharing their lived experiences, inclusive yoga for kids hosted by Mindfully Inclusive, and more educational activities and opportunities.

Visit the Stony Plain website for event details and to learn more about the Together We Shine initiative.