Recently, Ajax Fire & Emergency Services received a 2025 Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Award from the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs (CAFC) EDI Committee.
Ajax Fire was chosen for this award based upon the All-Gender Renovations that the department has undertaken and the policy changes to support pregnant firefighters.
The award was developed as part of the CAFC’s Fire Service for All Action Plan for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusionto recognize leaders in this area. CAFC has also committed to identifying leading practices that are already in effect across the country and to facilitating the sharing of learnings.
Quotes
“This recognition is a reflection of the outstanding leadership within our Fire Department and their dedication to building a culture that welcomes everyone. I am proud to celebrate this achievement, as we remain committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen EDI practices across all of our services. Please join me in congratulating Ajax Fire & Emergency Services on this well-deserved accomplishment.” - Shaun Collier, Mayor and CEO, Town of Ajax
“Equity, diversity and inclusion are not just values that we discuss, but they guide the way we serve our community and support one another across our department. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made, and this recognition reinforces our commitment to ensuring everyone feels represented, respected and safe within our fire service. I also want to thank the women within the Ajax Fire & Emergency Services for advocating for these changes. When we take the time to listen, we can move forward in a positive, progressive and meaningful way.” – Aaron Burridge, Fire Chief, Ajax Fire & Emergency Services
Quick Facts
- As part of the CAFC’s Fire Service for All Action Plan for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), CAFC launched an EDI award in 2021 to recognize leaders in this area.
- This award was presented to Ajax Fire on Tuesday, September 23 at the Canadian Association of Fire Chief's Annual Conference Gala.
- Ajax Fire was chosen for this award based upon the All-Gender Renovations that the department has undertaken and the policy changes to support pregnant firefighters.