Better Together – Moncton’s Social Inclusion Plan
City of Moncton
Introduction
Moncton is amid a transformative period marked by dynamic growth and increasing diversity. Our population has seen a significant uptick, rising 23.9% over the past 15 years. Projections suggest that by 2046, Moncton could be home to more than 116,200 residents. This isn’t just a number; it reflects a community that is becoming more diverse and enriched across various dimensions—age, culture, language, and lived experiences.
While we celebrate this increasing diversity, we recognize that it brings opportunities and challenges. An aging population points towards future needs in healthcare, social security, and accessibility. A rising wave of cultural and sexual diversity enriches our community tapestry, necessitating inclusive policies and community engagement. The surge in recent immigration emphasizes the importance of effective integration strategies.
However, some challenges require collective action and thoughtful planning. Persistent income disparities still affect many in our community, notably vulnerable groups such as children, youth, and single parents. Housing affordability remains a pressing concern, exacerbated by increasing property values. Mental health issues are emerging as a significant area requiring immediate attention, along with public safety and broader accessibility concerns.
The “Better, Together: Moncton’s Social Inclusion Plan” aspires to be more than just a set of recommendations. It seeks to serve as a living document that drives action, innovation, and continuous improvement. Built on the foundation of an extensive needs assessment, this strategy incorporates a wealth of data, community input, and expert insights. Each section is organized around 16 foundational pillars, providing specific outcomes and actionable steps designed to address Moncton’s most pressing social issues.
Our overarching aspiration is to cultivate a Moncton where growth is expansive and inclusive. We aim to create a city where diversity is not just accepted but celebrated and where each resident feels a sense of belonging and has the opportunity to contribute to shaping the community’s future.
Summary
The "Better, Together: Moncton’s Social Inclusion Plan" outlines a comprehensive strategy to ensure inclusive growth and wellbeing as Moncton becomes increasingly diverse. Amid rapid demographic expansion—with a projected population of 116,200 by 2046—the city faces challenges related to aging populations, rising immigration, housing affordability, economic disparities, public safety, mental health, and systemic barriers.
The Plan is built on thorough data analysis, extensive community feedback, and expert consultations, structured around 16 strategic pillars:
Anti-Racism: Tackling systemic racism through policy reviews, community education campaigns, and active involvement of diverse community representatives.
Collaboration and Partnerships: Strengthening coordination among governments, nonprofits, and community organizations for targeted resource allocation and enhanced transparency via real-time data.
Community Safety and Wellbeing: Implementing proactive and trauma-informed practices to manage public spaces and address complex social issues like substance use.
Digital Literacy and Access: Bridging the digital divide by promoting affordable internet connectivity, establishing Community Wi-Fi Zones, and increasing digital literacy.
Diversity and Cultural Inclusivity: Encouraging cultural integration, accessible public spaces, multilingual communication, and cultural exchange initiatives.
Economic Inclusion: Promoting equitable economic growth through policies that support underrepresented entrepreneurs and increase accessibility of city programs.
Empowered Governance: Ensuring municipal decision-making integrates social inclusion considerations, through enhanced council training and community engagement.
Engagement and Representation: Increasing public participation and representation in governance, especially among underrepresented groups.
Food Security and Nutrition: Improving access to nutritious, affordable food through urban agriculture, community gardens, and localized food resource initiatives.
Housing Affordability and Quality: Enhancing housing availability, affordability, and quality through targeted strategies and intergovernmental partnerships.
Mental Health and Recovery: Addressing mental health and substance use issues by promoting community awareness, reducing stigma, and improving access to support services.
Language Support and Communication: Enhancing multilingual communication in city services and supporting linguistic diversity through technology and inclusive hiring practices.
Older Adult Support and Engagement: Addressing the unique needs of seniors through improved community resources, increased civic participation, and targeted support services.
Reconciliation and Indigenous Rights: Integrating Indigenous rights into municipal policy, fostering awareness about Indigenous history, and promoting meaningful reconciliation.
Transportation and Mobility: Ensuring equitable, accessible, and affordable transportation options for all, with special emphasis on underserved populations.
Youth Development and Support: Empowering youth through active participation, skill development, and addressing specific challenges faced by marginalized youth groups.
The Plan emphasizes collaborative action among government, non-profits, businesses, educational institutions, and community members. It advocates strategic investment, evidence-based decision-making, and ongoing transparency through real-time data tracking and community engagement initiatives.
Moncton’s vision for an inclusive future revolves around creating a community where diversity is celebrated, economic opportunities are accessible, barriers are dismantled, and every resident feels valued and supported.