Richfield Furthers Commitment To Equity By Hiring Equity Coordinator

Press release from the City of Richfield:

August 24, 2020

Martin Luther King Jr. famously said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” The quote has stood the test of time and is as applicable in 2020 as it was when it was first penned by the civil rights leader in April 1963. We must always strive to promote a more equitable society for residents of all races, ethnicities, creeds, orientations and ability levels.

For years, the City of Richfield has championed the values of equity, diversity and inclusion. As an organization, it has worked diligently to root out service barriers for residents of all backgrounds. The city is further committing to this work by hiring an equity and inclusion coordinator.

“Centering equity and inclusion is a must for any organization in today’s world and is the foundation for not only a responsive and inclusive government, but also for a prosperous community where everyone feels welcomed and valued,” explained Mayor Maria Regan Gonzalez. “The city council is excited to be taking our city’s commitment to equity and inclusion to the next level by hiring a full-time coordinator solely dedicated to achieving this vision.”

The coordinator position, which was posted for hiring last week on the city’s website, will be responsible for advancing equity, diversity and inclusion efforts within the City of Richfield both internally with city employees, city council, commissions and boards and within the communities which the organization serves.

The equity and inclusion coordinator will identify ways to further imbed equity and inclusion into the city’s operations, practices and behaviors by creating and implementing strategies that promote cultural competency.

“The city has been on a journey towards equity for years, including participation in the Government Alliance on Race and Equity, required equity training for all employees, revamping hiring processes and creating safe spaces for conversations on race. But, as an organization we have gone as far as we can without the addition of an equity expert to our staff,” stated Assistant City Manager Pam Dmytrenko. “Hiring an equity and inclusion coordinator will enhance the work that has already been done and expand it into other areas of focus.”

City leadership believes that the equity work undertaken by staff will not only lead to professional growth but personal growth, as well.

“The more individuals develop their capacity to identify inequities and learn skills to root them out, the more it becomes second nature,” remarked Executive Aide/Analyst Blanca Martinez Gavina. “Whether it is at work or at home, if we fail to treat one person equitably, we fail everyone.”

Other cities, both in Minnesota and around the country, who have hired similar equity positions, have seen increased trust between residents and their local government. They have also expanded service offerings and brought more members of the community into important conversations about operations.

To learn more about the position or to apply, visit: richfieldmn.gov/jobs

This press release was produced by the City of Richfield. The views expressed here are the author’s own.