Norwalk Launches Equity And Justice For All Commission

NORWALK, CT — Bridgeport-based consultants Led by Us & Associates has been hired by Norwalk to host community conversations and discussions which will help the city launch a new Equity and Justice For All Commission, officials announced. See the video below.

The commission will be charged with helping Norwalk find solutions to systematic racism and injustice, and was initially announced last year following the killing of George Floyd by police in Minnesota.

"We are at a defining moment for our community," said Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling in a statement. "In Norwalk, we are embracing this moment, not hiding from it, and view it as a chance to move forward together to become a stronger Norwalk. I promised after the murder of George Floyd that we would enact change and not remain silent on the systematic racism and inequities that effect so many in Norwalk."

Led by Us co-founder and Principal Kelvin Ayala said his firm is looking forward to helping Norwalk deliver "an equitable approach" to governing.

"The City of Norwalk will become a model city, not just in the state, but across the nation for taking an inclusive approach that is participatory and democratic," Ayala said. "Led By Us is looking forward to engaging the community leaders, residents, organizations, and city government to drive collaborative solutions that improves quality of life for all."

Added Rilling, "Today, we are taking the first bold, progressive step to bring about that change. Led By Us, with the community’s support and input, will help us form a new Equity and Justice For All Commission. This is going to be hard work, it may be uncomfortable, but it is going to create lasting change."