Surrey is ranked one of the most diverse communities in Canada.

The City of Surrey is focused on creating an environment where every employee can reach his or her full potential. To achieve this, we work to appreciate, value and encourage diversity. We also integrate and share unique perspectives and capabilities so that our City has a powerful advantage as an employer. Only through combining individuals from all types of backgrounds can we build teams that truly represent the rich mosaic of cultures that make up the community of Surrey.

The City has a number of initiatives to promote diversity at every level within our organization. These include:

• programs targeted to women looking to improve their English language skills, which include a conversation group and a specialized computer program that helps with grammar, spelling and language
• encouraging recruitment of women in non-traditional roles and outreach to members of the ethnic community
• park adaptations to support intercultural group participation through infrastructure needs and special projects
• the City's Fest Committee liaising and working alongside various ethnic communities to hold celebrations, such as the Vaisakhi Day Parade and the Miri-Piri Day Parade
• an annual City proclamation supporting Multi-cultural Week and encouraging staff to initiate programs and communications in support of the weeklong celebration 
• partnerships with SDISS (Surrey Delta Immigrant Services Society), PICS (Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society), and Success and Surrey Community Services enabling cross-referrals and opportunity identification; through these partnerships, the City employs translation services and joint promotion to benefit all organizations

Our commitment to diversity extends beyond simply recruiting and employing a diverse workforce. The City of Surrey knows that strength comes from diversity in action. By promoting and advancing our values we grow stronger as individuals, as work teams, and as a community.

"Diversity is important in IT where rapid technological change is the status quo.   Innovative solutions to urgent problems are necessary and diversity ensures various perspectives are brought to the table."
David
Finance, Technology & HR Department

"Due to the length of time we spend with co-workers, we begin to understand their cultural backgrounds, appreciate the differences and — in the process — learn how other cultural groups contribute to our social structure and our work teams."
Jo-ann
Finance, Technology & HR Department

"City staff reflect the diversity of the community to better meet the needs of those who live and work in Surrey."
Sukhi
Parks, Recreation & Culture Department

"I am proud to work within an organization that incorporates, values, recognizes, and is sensitive to the diverse makeup of our community. Surrey's diversity is our strength. Our commitment to it is a beacon for a strong and healthy future."
Karen
Parks, Recreation & Culture Department