Report to Mayor and City Council
Tuesday, September 07, 2021
Discussion
SUBJECT:
Title
CONSIDER OPTIONS FOR FORMATION OF A DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION COMMITTEE AND PROVIDE DIRECTION TO STAFF AND THE CITY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE (CITY COUNCIL)
Body
I. SUMMARY
The City of Carson is home to an exceptionally diverse community. It is more ethnically diverse than the average U.S. city, and those employed by the City are reflective of the community they serve. However, the presence of diversity does not address issues of equity and inclusion diverse communities often face. In recent years, there has been an increase in public entities exploring the formation of a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion ("DEI") Committee in order to create a more inclusive environment with a level playing field for all.
A DEI Committee is a committee of members who have a significant role in developing goals and strategies related to the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion. There is a common misconception that a DEI committee's sole purpose is to create or increase diversity. However, although diversity is part of what a DEI Committee may focus on, it is also tasked with ensuring that all levels of employees feel they can be their authentic selves and that such employees have access to resources and opportunities necessary for their success.
After learning of the successful formation of a DEI Committee by the City Attorney's Office, Councilmember Jawane Hilton requested the City Attorney's Office provide information on DEI committees at a City Council meeting so that the City Council could consider the formation of a DEI Committee in Carson. The City of Carson has a history of addressing DEI issues. In 2019, the City made an investment in staff through professional development, on-going education and training, which included providing Diversity, Inclusion and Unconscious Bias Training. During October through November 2019, 232 employees attended Diversity & Inclusion Traini...
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