Aloha Makahiki Hou (Happy New Year) from the Equity Program!
There are many traditions worldwide that are connected to the start of a new year. Here are some examples of some traditions that people and cultures follow: Make loud noises (fireworks, break plates/glass, church bells, cheer/shout, etc.), eat food or wear clothes that represent/bring good luck, create resolutions, gather and celebrate with loved ones, scare off bad spirits/bad luck, and so much more!
As we enter a new year, our monthly newsletter will be transitioning to a new format. It will focus more on our Equity Program, and we will use this as a communication tool to share current happenings and updates.
2024-2027 Equity Strategic Plan: Our Equity Program completed our first round of listening sessions in January – We presented and shared the process for our new strategic plan and there was appreciation and positive feedback expressed from staff when the strategic plan was shared. We have two more listening sessions scheduled for February, to allow additional opportunities for staff to share feedback and ideas.
Interested in providing feedback on the strategic plan?
- Preview the 2024-2027 Equity Strategic Plan by clicking the link above or here. We plan to add it to our Inside Lane page under Department > Equity Program (coming soon)
- Staff who are interested in providing feedback and/or ideas can use this online form https://forms.office.com/g/WTy7pgWUcv (please review the strategic plan information before providing feedback)
- February Listening Sessions – Check with supervisor, register through LEAP
- 2/13 (Tuesday) from 4-5 PM
- 2/29 (Thursday) from 9-10 AM
Equity and Education (E2) Committee Updates:
- Final meeting for current E2 group on 2/12 (Monday). An updated calendar invitation will be created and sent out to the members part of the updated E2 committee
- The E2 charter has been updated – The committee’s role is to help operationalize the equity strategic plan and the department level, cascade equity messages at the department level, and support equity workforce development efforts.
- Added 2 more directors to the membership
- Added 2 more specific positions to the membership (budget and procurement)
- Department equity committee updates moving to a new space
InclusiDates: In December 2023, our program provided a 1-hour training that introduced our new InclusiDates holiday observation calendar that can be added into Outlook. In addition, we created a brief toolkit that includes some tips and considerations.
Let's begin the new year reflecting on the many inequities that continue to occur while celebrating the strides that have been made. Our Equity Program is excited to embark on implementing the 2024-2027 Equity Strategic plan and learn how it can be integrated into the amazing work happening at Lane County!