Town councillor Marni Fedeyko believes Cochrane needs an Inclusion Statement to make it clear that people of all walks of life are whole-heartedly welcomed in the community.

Councillor Fedeyko says the time is now to back the hashtag #CochraneTogether with a clear statement.

"I didn't want to put it off. I realize that we're a little short staffed right now, but to me this is the time to bring it forward. It would make no sense for us to put it off for six months, and then be talking about it."

She has also volunteered to assist with the necessary research.

"Cochrane has a lot of culture diversity already, but I think there will be a lot of people very proud when they realize that we appreciate everyone here," says Fedeyko. "It doesn't matter what colour you are, your sexual orientation, or your religious believes, everyone is welcome."

Current happenings in society, like the Black Lives Matter and Anti-racism rally held here in June, brings the need for an inclusion statement to the forefront, she believes. She says other jurisdictions are doing the same.

She also referenced Cochrane's lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, two-spirited (LGBTQ2S) organizations. Cochrane is set to hold its first Pride Week in August.

"The LGBTQ2S community has been trying to gain momentum, especially in the last couple of years. I think that they really need the support of the town leadership."

While Fedeyko doesn't believe there is a large racism issue here, she says it's hard for her to know for sure because she's not of colour or different culture, and is straight.

"Maybe if I was in one of those different groups, I would feel that there is a big race issue here."

"For those communities of people that already feel somewhat on the outside, I think it's important that we take a stand and say, 'You're not on the outside, we're all with you.'"

At its Sept. 14 meeting, Fedeyko will be asking council to direct administration to bring back a statement and possibly a bylaw. She also wants the town to explore what activities or programs should fall under the umbrella.