Wellness is not a singular activity. Striving for wellness is not only about your own personal physical and mental wellness but also about those people and the society around you. This is called social wellness. It's not just about social skills but also about creating inclusivity, diversity, and equity. Practicing social wellness creates a welcoming environment and it is a cornerstone of our welcoming communities. We're proud to showcase the people and businesses across Ontario's Southwest that are championing diversity, equity, and inclusion; and helping us all improve our social wellness.
Respecting & Commemorating Indigenous Peoples
We recognize and deeply appreciate the First Nations' historical connection to, and stewardship of this place. Ontario’s Southwest is on the traditional territories of the Anishnaabeg/Anishinaabeg/Anishnabek/Anishinabek, Haudenosaunee (Iroquois), Huron-Wendt/Huron-Wendat, Attawandaron (Neutral), Lenape, Ojibway/Chippewa, and Wendat Indigenous Peoples. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties.
The lakes, rivers, and land we love to explore in Ontario’s Southwest were cared for by Indigenous Peoples who were here long before any settlers. Let's always remember that as we travel and explore. Many regional partners work with Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO), the province’s first and only dedicated Indigenous tourism organization that focuses on uniting communities, Indigenous organizations and industry leaders to support the growth of Indigenous tourism in Ontario. Check out the following article that shares important information about commemorating and learning about Indigenous Peoples' history and culture.
Supporting 2SLGBTQI+ Inclusion with Rainbow Registered Businesses
Creating welcoming spaces means ensuring all visitors feel safe and valued. The Rainbow Registered accreditation, developed by Canada’s LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce, signifies that a business or organization meets stringent standards for inclusivity, including staff training, policies, and practices that foster a culture of acceptance.
We are proud to be Rainbow Registered and to share a growing list of businesses across Ontario’s Southwest that have earned this designation. Discover destinations that prioritize inclusivity and create affirming experiences for all travelers.
Embracing Sustainability in Ontario’s Southwest
Ontario’s Southwest is home to the Carolinian life zone, one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in Canada. This region boasts a greater number of both flora and fauna species than any other ecosystem in the country. With its rare species and fragile landscapes, sustainability isn’t just an option—it’s essential.
Many local businesses are leading the way in responsible tourism by adopting sustainable practices such as eco-friendly accommodations, conservation initiatives, and experiences that protect and restore our natural environment. Discover how these efforts help preserve the breathtaking landscapes that define our region.
Offsetting your Carbon Footprint
Traveling responsibly means making conscious choices that reduce your impact on the environment. If you’re looking to offset your carbon footprint, check out Sustainable Travel International’s online calculator for practical ways to counterbalance your emissions. While carbon offsets alone aren’t a complete solution, they help fund crucial environmental projects that mitigate the effects of travel-related emissions.
As you likely know, using carbon offsets as a means to achieve sustainability has its limitations but it is a good way to fund projects that are helping the environment. Click here to learn more about carbon offsets.
Take the next step in your commitment to helping protect the environment for future generations by signing our Responsible Traveller Pledge below!
