Congratulations to Terri Williamson, the City Human Resources Manager and the Terrace Public Library - both of whom won awards last week from a local organization dedicated to supporting and creating a diverse, inclusive and racism-free community.
Hosted by Skeena Diversity and the Greater Terrace Welcoming Network, the first ever Lifetime Community Inclusion Award Gala took place on March 20, 2025.
While the City congratulates all the winners, we are especially thrilled and proud of the City staff member (Terri Williamson who has worked for the City for 38 years!) and partner organization (Terrace Public Library) honoured with awards for their contributions to Terrace being a more inclusive place to work and live.
Congratulations to Terri Williamson!
Terri Williamson, the City's Human Resources Manager, has worked for the municipality for 38 years in various positions. She was one of several community members who won a "Lifetime Inclusion Achievement Award".
This prestigious award honours an individual whose lifelong dedication to inclusion, equity, and diversity has made a profound and lasting impact on the community. Through their leadership, advocacy, and lifetime commitment, they have helped shape a more inclusive society, inspiring generations to continue fostering equity and belonging for all. Their legacy serves as a beacon of hope and progress, ensuring that the values of inclusion remain for years to come.
The Selection Committee established that Terri demonstrated an outstanding commitment to fostering Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), particularly through her work at the City. Her efforts have contributed to meaningful policy changes, increased diversity in the workplace, and a greater sense of belonging for employees and community members alike, according to the winning criteria form.
The form went on to list examples of Terri's key contributions and community impact:
- Led an employment survey to assess workplace inclusion, asking fundamental questions such as, "Do you feel included?"—providing valuable insights into employee experiences.
- Implemented inclusive language in job postings (e.g., "Everyone is welcome")—leading to more diverse hiring practices.
- Engaged in informal and formal conversations with newcomers to better understand their experiences and challenges.
- Played a key role in organizing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) training and workshops for City of Terrace employees over two years. These workshops led to:
- A review and revision of internal policies.
- The introduction of more employee-centered initiatives to create a more inclusive work environment.
Congratulations to the Terrace Public Library
The Terrace Public Library, a community partner, also won the "Inclusive Organization of the Year" award.
This award honors an organization, community group, non-profit, or institution (excluding businesses) that has made a significant impact through its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through initiatives, programs, and advocacy efforts, they have fostered a more welcoming and supportive environment, empowering individuals and strengthening the fabric of the community. Their leadership in promoting inclusivity serves as an inspiring model for others to follow.
The Library has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to fostering inclusion and accessibility in the community. Through diverse hiring practices, inclusive workplace culture, and community-centered initiatives, the library has become a leader in making Terrace a more welcoming place for all.
The form then listed the Library's diverse and inclusive practices.
- Inclusion and Learning of Sm'algya̱x: Incorporating Sm'algya̱x into programs, signage, Storywalks, and social media.
- Job postings are shared widely to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants.
- Interview questions are provided 24 hours in advance to help candidates, particularly those with English as a second language, prepare effectively.
- Visual and picture-based training is used to accommodate different learning styles.
- No fixed training period—new employees are supported to learn at their own pace.
- Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) training is integrated into staff development, covering topics such as substance use and homelessness.
- Staff input is actively sought, ensuring employees are included in the development of new training programs.
- A dedicated teen space provides a safe and welcoming environment for youth.
Congratulations to all the winners!
Congratulations to all the winners.
And thank you to Skeena Diversity and the Greater Terrace Welcoming Network for organizing and hosting the awards, as well as the important work you do to make Terrace an inclusive and welcoming community.
Photo Cutline: City of Terrace Human Resources Manager Terri Williamson at a job fair in 2024. Terri was recently awarded a Lifetime Inclusion Achievement Award.