On March 26, 2025, the Nalikitquniejk – Antigonish Equity, Anti-Hate, and Anti-Racism Plan was officially approved by both the council for theTown of Antigonish. This is a joint plan with the Municipality of the County of Antigonish and reflects a shared and ongoing commitment to building a more inclusive, respectful, and equitable Antigonish for all who live, work, and visit here.
This work was completed in accordance to the Dismantling Racism and Hate Act, passed by the Province of Nova Scotia in 2022, which requires municipalities to develop and publish an equity, anti-hate, and anti-racism plan by April 1, 2025. The plan was developed collaboratively by Town and County staff and guided by Council leadership, and best practices in equity and anti-racism.
The Nalikitquniejk Plan is a long-term, living document built around four key commitments:
- Engaging underserved communities through intentional listening, dialogue, and action.
- Dismantling systemic discrimination by reviewing and improving municipal policies, services, and decision-making frameworks.
- Building an anti-racist and anti-hate community through ongoing education, awareness, and inclusive programming.
- Maintaining accountability through public reporting, advisory committees, and regular plan reviews every three years.
The plan outlines over two dozen action items to be implemented between 2025 and 2028, across six areas: community engagement, internal policy and infrastructure, public awareness, equity in service delivery, support for community initiatives, and evaluation. Some of these actions include a commitment to hosting Tri-Council meetings with Paqtnkek First Nation, and the establishment of a joint Equity Advisory Committee to provide ongoing insight and guidance.
This plan is a foundational step forward in advancing equity and belonging in Antigonish. It will continue to evolve as we listen to our community, measure progress, and deepen our collective efforts to create a community where racism, hate, and discrimination have no place.
pdf Download the 2025 Equity, Anti-Hate, and Anti-Racism Plan (1.11 MB) .
