RGD's letter to the Mayor explains that RGD and other design organizations around the world condemn design contests as unethical business practices that are ineffective in meeting the City's goals. Read the full message here.

The Mayor responded by explaining: "We are not looking to rebrand the City - our volunteer Inclusivity committee is looking to engage the community in developing a logo and tag line which reflects what inclusivity and diversity means in Belleville."

Although RGD is pleased to hear that the City is not intending to rebrand by way of a contest, we have responded to clarify our position and encourage the City to consider by inviting the public to submit other, more appropriate, forms of expression to stimulate inclusive engagement of the community, and to contact RGD in future for assistance in developing a process that is  effective, fair and meets everyone’s needs.

If you have any thoughts or questions on this, please email RGD's Executive Director, Hilary Ashworth, at .

For details on on-going advocacy efforts by the Association, go to www.rgd.ca/about/advocacy.php