Press Release: A Conversation Toward Inclusion and Belonging Listening Session 

Press Release

A Conversation Toward Inclusion and Belonging Listening Session 

EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
October 27, 2020

CONTACT
Lisa Maher
Communications & Marketing Manager
lmaher@redmond.gov
425-556-2427

REDMOND, WA - The Redmond City Council is hosting a virtual, facilitated community listening session about inclusion and belonging on Friday, November 6, from 4 – 5:30 p.m. The public is encouraged to join the live session by registering here. To ensure the City Council connects and hears from as many community members as possible, please complete this questionnaire no later than November 14.

Council would like to intentionally focus on deepening their understanding of the challenges, opportunities, and dynamics of race and ethnicity in Redmond prior to approving the 2021-2022 City budget. The community feedback and comments will provide insight to the Council on the roles that race and ethnicity play in the lives of those who live, work, and enjoy the many resources of the city.

“Our City values hearing from all our community members so that we can receive input from a diverse group of voices,” said Council President Tanika Padhye. “This is important because it leads to better discussions, policymaking, and ultimately, a city that embodies inclusion and values diversity.”

Four specific questions will be asked of the community throughout the meeting including:

  1. What historic challenges to race and ethnicity have existed in the Redmond community that have impacted your experience?
  2. What are the current critical issues impacting the racial and ethnic climate in Redmond?
  3. What could and/or should be considered as the Council begins to prioritize goals for the City of Redmond related to increasing our climate of inclusion and belonging?
  4. How would you like to be engaged in the future as the Redmond City Council considers ways to improve their relationship with the entire city?

Two minutes of speaking time will be allotted per participant during the listening session on each question to allow time for the most voices to be heard. As a follow-up to the meeting, the City will prepare a summary of the lessons learned and insights shared by the community.

The City of Redmond is committed to being a leader in promoting a culturally inclusive community. As a global city that attracts residents from around the world, we value our diversity and pride ourselves on being a welcoming community. The City believes all community members should have access to city services, influence city policy, and direction and feel a sense of belonging and safety.

For questions and additional information, contact Lisa Maher, Communications Manager, at lmaher@redmond.gov or 425-556-2427. This press release is available on www.redmond.gov/PressReleases.

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