Beef Farmers of Ontario has adopted an anti-discrimination policy for its members and others along the beef supply chain.
The association said it has done it to better recognize and appreciate diversity at all levels of the value chain. This includes taking steps to address systemic racism, as well as discrimination and prejudice based on sexual orientation, gender, religion, mental and physical ability, and language, it said.
Rob Lipsett.photo: John Greig
“We recognize the beef sector is not always a diverse industry, particularly at the farmer and association level,” said BFO president Rob Lipsett.
“Further along our supply chain, however, there is a great amount of diversity among the people dedicated to ensuring our product makes it to the tables of consumers.
“Likewise, our consumers are another integral and incredibly diverse group from all walks of life.
“We feel it is important to be a voice, build bridges, listen, learn and support all members of our community.”
BFO says its values can be realized by sspeaking up against prejudice and discriminatory language, behaviour and actions and increasing understanding of how policies and programs related to agriculture affect Indigenous communities.
