Equity and Inclusion Newsletter Issue 30

city of Dallas

Equity and Inclusion Newsletter

May 20, 2021 | Issue 30

Message from the City Manager and Chief of Equity and Inclusion

Dear Residents of Dallas,

The pandemic has taken a toll on the mental health of thousands of individuals across the metroplex. This reality has led to the creation of various programs dedicated to addressing mental health by connecting individuals to trained staff that are able to teach people healthy ways to reduce stress and manage anxiety.

It is important to recognize the intersection of May as Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, to uplift resources for our AAPI community in the face of anti-Asian sentiment. Stand Against Hatred is just one of the organizations tracking hate incidents and creating spaces for AAPI to heal, while Mental Health America has compiled a directory for AAPI folks to review resources readily available to them.

Do not neglect your mental health, it is vital to your overall physical wellbeing! There is a plethora of resources available for all Dallasites at reduced costs. The National Alliance on Mental Illness of North Texas to take advantage of, from pop-up locations to 24/7 helplines.

Help is available, reach out.

Sincerely,

Liz and TC

                                    T.C. Broadnax                             Liz Cedillo-Pereira

                                    City Manager                        Chief of Equity and Inclusion

COVID-19 Vaccine Resources

City of Dallas Vaccination Customer Service Number

The City of Dallas Emergency Operations Center, working with our vendor AMR, established a call center to respond to resident questions regarding vaccinations at Potter’s House and moving forward. Beginning April 1, 2021 at 11 a.m. CST, you can use the phone number (469-809-8500) and send an email (DallasVaccineQuestions@gmr.net) for resident questions.

  • The FAQs have been updated in English and Spanish and are attached. These are also available at com/COVID19.

Dallas County COVID-19 Vaccinations

As of Monday, March 29, 2021, everyone age 16 and older is now eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine in Texas. To receive a vaccine from DCHHS, you must first register on the waitlist. You will receive a confirmation number following registration. When you are eligible and there is supply, DCHHS will email and/or text you an invitation to schedule an appointment. If you are 75 and older, you do not need an appointment for a vaccine at our Fair Park location. Bring a photo ID showing your birthdate. Use Gate 2 or Gate 10 and staff will direct you to a location to register on-site.

  • To register for the COVID-19 vaccine, call the COVID-19 Vaccine Registration Hotline to enroll at 1-855-466-8639. They are open 7 days a week from 7am-7pm.
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Baylor Scott & White COVID-19 Vaccine Registration

Baylor Scott & White is now vaccinating Texans who meet Phase 1A and Phase 1B criteria, as well as school and child care personnel, as informed by state and federal guidance. Texans in Phase 1C are now able to schedule appointments.

  • To learn more about their vaccination process, please click here.

UT Southwestern COVID-19 Vaccine Registration

UT Southwestern is following state and federal guidelines and currently vaccinating Texans who meet Phase 1A1B, or 1C criteria, or who have other conditions identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as potentially high risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

  • If you meet the criteria and are not yet registered as a UT Southwestern patient in MyChart.  

Dallas County COVID-19 Testing

Drive-Thru Locations

For City of Dallas and Dallas County residents only (must provide documentation of address ex. utility bill). Available for children over age 5.

  • Ellis Davis Field House
    • 9191 South Polk Street
    • 7:30am-4pm, Monday to Saturday
  • Dallas College Eastfield Campus
    • 3737 Motley Dr., Mesquite, TX 75150
    • 7:30am-4pm, Monday to Saturday

For mobile testing locations and State of Texas/TDEM Supported Sites, click here.

In this Newsletter

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Federal Information

Health Equity

US Department of Health and Human Services

The Office of Minority Health from the US Department of Health and Human Services is implementing strategies to combat racism in health services, particularly anti-Asian sentiments that have come to the forefront of the COVID-19 pandemic. They have compiled initiatives and directives readily available for individuals and organizations to implement best practices to end racism in health services.

  • To explore more initiatives and resources, click here.

NNED Virtual Roundtable: Implications for Asian Pacific Islanders

The National Network to Eliminate Disparities in Behavioral Health (NNED) convened a NNED Virtual Roundtable. During this NNED Virtual Roundtable, panelists discussed emerging health needs for Asian Pacific Islander (API) communities; strategies for providing culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health and emotional support services to API populations; and community approaches for addressing discrimination and stigma experienced by APIs.

  • To watch the informational roundtable, click here.
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National Racial Equity Initiatives

Center for Urban and Racial Equity

The Center for Urban and Racial Equity has curated a playlist of videos that help build an understanding of racial justice concepts and issues that span from satirical videos to information videos with key actions for people to share.

  • To watch the curated videos, click here.

Living Cities

Living Cities is focused on closing racial income and wealth gaps in U.S. cities through a collaborative and transparent approach to coalition-building. Their culturally aware resources can help individuals and organizations to create connections and implement solutions.

  • To explore more of their upcoming events and resource, click here.

State Information

State Mobile Vaccinations

State Mobile Vaccinations

The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) announced the launch of the State Mobile Vaccination Team Call Center. Texas businesses or civic organizations can call 844-90-TEXAS and select Option 3 to schedule a visit from a state mobile vaccine team to vaccinate employees, visitors, or members. To qualify for a visit, a business or civic organization must have 10 or more employees, visitors, or members who voluntarily choose to be vaccinated. Homebound Texans are also encouraged to call the hotline and select Option 1 to request a state mobile vaccination team to visit their home.

  • To learn more, click here.
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Children and Family Resources

Family Helpline

Speak with an experienced child welfare attorney about Child Protective Services (CPS) issues in Texas. CPS provides callers with reliable legal information and education — over the phone and in an anonymous setting. Anyone may call the Family Helpline, not just the parents of children involved with Child Protective Services.

  • The Family Helpline number is 844-888-6565, to learn more click here.

Local Information

Arts and Culture

DMA: Frida Kahlo Five Works

Frida Kahlo: Five Works offers a rare chance to explore a selection of works by acclaimed Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. This installation features four paintings and a drawing on loan from a private collection, each acting as a vehicle for understanding larger aspects of Kahlo’s artistic practice. This includes her unique visual language, her exploration of still life painting late in her career, and her reflection on the events of her adventurous life. Admission to this focus installation is free!

  • To learn more, click here.

Dynasty: The Peculiar Search for Totality

This exhibit features photography, poetry, history, and augmented reality to tell the story of one family's ancestral journey to freedom. Akofena, Dada, Aba, Nunu, Fifi, Kokou & Ashanti will take us on an ancestral journey to freedom. Using augmented reality, these powerful women will speak from the walls to share the tragedies and triumphs of their fight to reclaim their liberation. This in-person event is free!

  • To learn more details about this event, click here.
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Community Building

Proclamation Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

The City of Dallas and Mayor Eric Johnson have proclaimed the month of May as Asian American Pacific American Heritage month. This presents an opportunity to recognize the contributions and long-standing history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander to the social-cultural fabric of Dallas!

  • Read the proclamation by clicking here.

31 Ways to Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month in May and Beyond

This Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, join Asia Society for 31 ways to celebrate the vibrant and diverse traditions and contributions of Asians and Asian Americans. Highlighting live programs — virtual and in-person alike — our calendar also features a curated selection of on-demand family activities, art breaks, staff recommendations, and more.

  • To explore the upcoming events, click here.

Online Panel Discussion: Addressing Hate Crimes Against Asians

The Dallas Chinese Community Center and the City of Dallas coordinated a panels discussion on addressing hate crimes against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. The discussion includes explanations of important terminology and resources on how to promote safety, prevention, and reporting.

  • To watch the discussion, click here.

Descendants Respond: In Memory of George Floyd, One Year On

George Floyd's murder one year ago sparked a newly energized movement for justice. On May 25, tune in to SVP Dallas as they host a forum to learn what it takes to fight for equity, transformation, & healing against the long legacy of systemic racism in the US.

  • To register for this event, click here

Resilience: The Asian American Community in Dallas

This one-hour presentation and conversation will focus on the long and foundational history of Asians in Dallas that demonstrates the resilient spirit of our community. This conversation will be lead by Resilience Officer from the Office of Equity and Inclusion, Genesis Gavino, with speakers from Communications Director for Dallas Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation- Stephanie Drenka and Executive Director and Founder, Mosaic Family Services- Dr. Walter Nguyen. 

  • To register for this event, click here
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Education

Gender Matters a Podcast from Texas Women’s Foundation

Listen to this podcast series from Texas Women’s Foundation featuring the 2021 Maura Women Helping Women and Young Leader Award Recipients, co-moderated by TXWF President & CEO Roslyn Dawson Thompson and Kimberly-Clark Executive Leaders. They invite influential women from Texas with diverse backgrounds about their careers and advice.

  • To learn more, click here.

St. Philip’s Summer Camp 2021

Sign your students up for a Summer Virtual Tutorial Program with St. Philip’s School and Community Center. They are taking rising 1st-6th graders for the program that will be running from June 14-July 23, 2021. The program is designed to reinforce content taught throughout the school year and create a space to apply and explore learning in a fun way.

  • To register for the program, click here.
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Employment

Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas Job Fairs

The Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas is hosting a virtual job fair with new job opportunities. These events will take place every Monday at 10:00am. Trained staff will give an overview of open position along with required qualifications and educational requirements.

  • To learn more, click here.

CCD Financial Stability and Career Services

Catholic Charities Dallas offers 1-to-1 coaching, career services, and group education at no cost, to support and encourage financial goals by creating an action plan. There is financial coaching and HUD counseling available to help empower individuals.

  • To learn more, click here.

Financial Literacy for the Modern Worker

The Dallas Public Library and WiNGS is coming together to teach individuals the basics of investing in stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, and discover ways to maximize and protect investments. The webinar will be taking place June 8th online.

  • To register for the webinar, click here.
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Housing

The Lullaby House

The housing program at the Lullaby House provides a nurturing home environment dedicated to supporting pregnant and parenting teen moms. They offer programs and services that help them thrive and learn to live independently. 

  • To learn more about this ongoing program, click here.

Viola’s House

Viola's House provides intake and assessment, case management, clinical services, education and training in increase participants self-sufficiency and future success for their clients. The programs, staff, and volunteers provide comprehensive, wraparound services that support and guide mothers in developing future behaviors and norms that build social capital and individual skills to succeed.

  • To learn more about their comprehensive program, click here.

Dallas Eviction Assistance Initiative

The City of Dallas Office of Equity and Inclusion, Fair Housing Division in partnership with Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas has established an eviction assistance initiative consisting of education, training and legal representation to Dallas residential rental tenants who are negatively impacted by COVID-19 and unable to pay rent to remain in their homes. 

  • Eligible residents can apply, by clicking here.

Emergency Rental Assistance Program

The City of Dallas is partnering with Abounding Prosperity, Inc. to begin accepting applications for rental assistance through their Emergency Rental Assistance Program. To be eligible to receive funding an applicant must rent a publicly or privately owned residence in the City of Dallas. The annual gross household income must meet guidelines defined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

  • To apply and learn more about the requirements, click here
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Dallas Habitat Homeownership Fair

Join the Dallas area Habitat for Humanity for their annual homeownership fair where they will be providing the tools and resources needed to make your dream of homeownership a reality. The event will taking place on Saturday, June 5th from 10:00am to 2:30pm.

  • To register for this event, click here.

Food

Inspired Vision Compassion Center

Inspired Vision Compassion Center offers food to individuals in need from Monday-Friday, 9:30am through 5:00pm. You can pick up fresh produce and more at 2019 N. Masters Drive Dallas, TX 75217.

  • To learn more, click here.

Quest 4 Greater Success

Each month, they provide a week’s worth of groceries to low-income families. In addition to their monthly food distribution, they offer free life-skill workshops and grocery store tours to families. They are located at 202 Jim Miller, Suite 205 Dallas, TX 75217.

  • To read more about their requirements, click here.

For Oak Cliff Food Drive

For Oak Cliff hosts a free food program every Wednesday at the Glendale Shopping Center to give away 1,500 boxes of free food. Every Wednesday beginning at 8:00am.

  • To learn more, click here.
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Health

Mental Health Resources for Asian American and Pacific Islander Communities

There are various resources available dedicated to advancing the mental health and wellbeing of Asian American communities through research, professional practice, education, and policy.

  • To explore their resources, click here.

Mental Health Action Day: Virtual Town Hall

Univision is proud to be a founding partner in the first-ever national  “Mental Health Action Day” to empower the Hispanic community to take action on mental health. Univision Contigo DFW will host a Spanish virtual townhall this Thursday, May 20th to offer local resources and expertise on issues of concern within mental health, as well as efforts focusing on connecting the community to resources and destigmatizing mental health.

  • To learn more, click here.
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NAMI North Texas

NAMI North Texas is a non-profit organization providing free education, advocacy and support for individuals and family members affected by a mental health condition. The NAMI North Texas helpline is available by phone and email. An individual seeking assistance can call (214) 341-7133 or email namidallas@namidallas.org.

  • For a comprehensive list of resources, click here.

Mobile Crisis Outreach Team

The Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT) is a team made up of mental health professionals who help adults and children experiencing a mental health crisis. Crisis intervention is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week anywhere someone needs help – at home, work or school, in clinics, or on the streets.

  • For more information, click here.

COVID-19 Vaccine Informational Webinar

Do you have questions about the COVID-19 Vaccine? Be proactive about your health with an informational session from Dr. Carolee Estelle of UT Southwestern. Dr. Estelle is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center and serves as Interim Chief of Infection Prevention for Parkland Health & Hospital System. 

  • To register, click here.
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LGBTQ Resources

Akanni Men’s Support Group

AKANNI is of African origin, meaning “Our meeting brings gifts”. Black Transmen Inc hosts Akanni meetings that offer Black Transmen a safe, respectful and confidential environment for men of all stages of their journey. Support Group meets every 1st and 3rd Wednesday 6:30 CST.

  • To register for the meetings, click here.

Lambada Legal

Lambda Legal is the oldest and largest national legal organization whose mission is to achieve full recognition of the civil rights of LGBTQ+ people by equipping them with information on their legal rights. Their database allows Texans to learn more about legal protections offered to them and additional resources available.

  • To explore their database, click here.

Small Business Support

Communities Foundation of Texas Nonprofit Funding

In response to the winter storm and extreme cold that hit Texas in late February 2021, Communities Foundation of Texas, Hoblitzelle Foundation, Lyda Hill Philanthropies, the Wood Foundation, and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas have come together to provide support for 501c3 nonprofits in North Texas who have experienced damage as a result of the prolonged cold and ice.

  • To learn more about the available funding, click here.

Young Professionals: Women at Work

Join the YP Women's Network as they highlight the journeys of some incredible women who have prospered in male-dominated fields and excelled in their careers. Learn how you can not just survive in your field, but rise above the challenges and help pave the way for women to come.

  • To register, click here.
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