Inclusion and Economy. Why Inclusion Matters in Communities Like Canmore
Why inclusion?
Inclusion is essential in every part of life—especially in a community like Canmore. It shapes how we live, how we work, and how we grow together. It’s not just a social value; inclusion is a powerful economic and community-building tool. And it's one of the key reasons I'm running for Town Council.
Inclusion fuels economic growth
When we talk about inclusion, it’s not just about kindness or fairness it’s also about smart economics. Research shows that diverse teams and inclusive workplaces drive innovation and productivity. In small towns like Canmore, inclusive economic development means:
Attracting and retaining workers by addressing barriers like housing and transportation.
Supporting local businesses started by immigrants, women, and underrepresented groups.
Building a resilient economy that can adapt because it draws from a wider base of skills, experiences, and ideas.
According to Statistics Canada, immigrants make up nearly 30% of Canmore’s population. That means inclusion isn’t a side issue it’s central to the future of our town. If those voices aren’t represented at the decision-making table, we’re missing a huge part of the picture.
The challenges we face
Despite progress, inclusion in Canmore still faces real challenges:
Lack of affordable housing puts pressure on working families and newcomers.
Limited transportation options make it hard for people without a vehicle to access jobs or participate in community life.
Underrepresentation of diverse voices in leadership roles means decisions often don’t reflect the full diversity of our population.
These challenges are complex, but they’re not impossible to address—especially if we’re willing to listen, collaborate, and lead with empathy.
Why inclusion matters to me
As someone who is a visible minority and has worked closely with diverse community members, I’ve seen how much value different perspectives bring to the table. Inclusion matters to me because I know firsthand that policies are stronger, fairer, and more effective when they’re shaped by a range of voices.
Inclusion means recognizing that people experience this town in different ways. For example, affordability affects newcomers and long-time residents differently. Access to services looks different depending on your language, background, or job schedule. That’s why we can’t settle for one-size-fits-all solutions. We need an approach that listens first, includes more people in decisions, and creates space for everyone to thrive.
What I’ll advocate for if elected
If elected to Town Council, I’ll work to make inclusion a priority in every policy and decision. That means:
Listening to underrepresented voices, especially those who are often left out of traditional consultations.
Pushing for more inclusive public engagement, including translated materials, child-friendly meeting formats, and accessible locations.
Supporting initiatives that reduce barriers to participation whether it’s access to affordable housing, sustainable transportation, or local programs.
Collaborating with community groups to co-create solutions, not just consult after decisions are already made.
Most of all, I’ll keep showing up. Inclusion isn’t a checkbox it’s an ongoing commitment to making sure everyone feels heard, respected, and valued.
If you believe in a more inclusive, fair, and connected Canmore, I’d love your support. Let’s build a town where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. I’m always open to ideas, stories, and collaboration because real change happens when we work together.
Let’s make it happen, together. Reach out, follow along, and join the conversation. I’m looking forward to hearing from you and to seeing what we can accomplish as a community.
