AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL

MEDIA RELEASE

29 May 2007

Auckland City Council leads the way on inclusiveness

Auckland City Council has endorsed a policy to help nurture the city’s diversity, and work towards creating a more inclusive and welcoming city.

The Inclusive Auckland policy provides a framework to facilitate diversity and intercultural opportunities. Key action points for the council include:

• supporting existing and future cultural festivals
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• enhancing the council’s foreign language line facility
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• creating a supportive environment for innovation in business and the arts
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• embedding cultural needs into council plans such as the open space policy
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and park designs.

The recommendations aim to promote greater interaction and understanding between different cultural, social and religious groups.

The policy also includes developing greater understanding and interaction between community groups based on age, sexual orientation, and impairments.

Councillor Dr John Hinchcliff, chairperson of the Partnerships Committee, says by building welcoming and inclusive communities, Aucklanders will feel supported in their surroundings and be inspired to play an active role in the city’s future development.

“How we plan for development and embrace new opportunities will define our city, now and into the future. Our diverse and evolving community structure are significant characteristics of Auckland.

“This policy will enable the council to enhance its programme of intercultural activities through further identifying and respecting our community’s unique mix of cultures and diversity, and meeting their respective needs.”

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