Ability

Being a welcoming and inclusive community means Jasper takes action to ensure that all residents, despite their diverse abilities, can participate in the social, cultural and economic life of the community. This action can include ensuring access to recreation facilities, accommodating differing needs in the workplace and community, and promoting education and awareness for inclusivity. The Alberta Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination on the grounds of physical and mental disability.

Indigenous Peoples

“Indigenous peoples” is a collective name for the original peoples of Canada and their descendants. This collective name recognizes First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to ask what name people prefer. Due to the ongoing impacts of Canada’s colonial history, Indigenous peoples are a marginalized group and face various levels of inequality in Canadian society.

To learn more about the Indigenous peoples of Treaty 6 and 8, where Jasper National Park is located, check out this documentary Resilient The Aseniwuche Winewak Story 4k - YouTube. 

LGBTQ2+

The abbreviation LGBTQ2+ refers to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered people, queer, two-spirit, and + (all other evolving identities). LGBTQ2+ people often feel excluded from our communities due to overt (homophobia) and systemic (heterosexism) experiences of discrimination. In 1996, the Canadian Human Rights Act was amended to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation. In 2009, Alberta included sexual orientation in the Alberta Human Rights Act.

This video from the Government of Canada, explains what LGTBQ2+ means.  

Newcomers

Sometimes new arrivals encounter challenges adapting to their new environment. Newcomers will feel a sense of belonging to communities that make them feel welcome and included. If you’re new to town or know a newcomer, check out the New to Jasper section of our website.

Seniors

It is estimated that by 2031 there will be more than 923,000 seniors in Alberta – about one in five Albertans. As the population ages, communities must adapt not only to accommodate seniors’ needs but also to recognize the unique opportunities around attracting and retaining this important demographic.

Youth

In 2012, Alberta’s youth made up 15.4% of the labour force and 14.7% of employed Albertans. To retain and attract youth, communities must make them feel welcome and provide opportunities for young people to participate and create.

Acknowledgements: AUMA Welcoming & Inclusive Communities Toolkit