This is a research and development project that began through observations and conversations with project partners. 

Together, we recognized that there are many frameworks, toolkits, and guides to help urban settings address racism, but no framework currently exists to support rural communities; though this is where resources are often lacking most, local culture is deeply rooted, and Indigenous communities have existed alongside in separate ways for generations. 

This research and development project aimed to design, develop, and test a new framework and toolkit specifically for well-being in small, remote, and rural communities with populations less than 40,000. 

It aimed to offer multi-faceted and intersectional approaches that can equip local individuals, groups, and organizations in understanding racism’s many forms and addressing it long-term.

After many in-depth discussions, all project partners agreed to the complexity of creating a “framework.” Moreover, the academic approach and terminology of a “framework” was too disconnected from the realities of the every day community member. To engage in a relevant way, we produced a resource to support communities instead. The resource helps communities begin the conversation based on the our lessons-learned and partnership with the Town of Strathmore in Alberta and City of Temiskaming Shores in Ontario.

Our resource is available for the public here: Growing Culturally Inclusive Communities July 2024

To continue the conversation, please feel free to contact alice@ccrl-clrc.ca.