Press Release: Redmond Hires First Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager 

Press Release

Redmond Hires First Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager 

EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
June 8, 2021

CONTACT
Jill Smith
Communications and Marketing Manager
jesmith@redmond.gov
425-556-2448

Redmond, WA – The City of Redmond has named Cecilia Martínez-Vásquez as its first Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Manager. Martínez-Vásquez will be leading the new DEI program that will provide citywide leadership to advance Redmond’s diversity, equity, and inclusion goals of reflecting the community, engaging in purposeful and accessible community outreach, and providing equitable service delivery and policy-driven outcomes. The DEI Manager will work to achieve these goals by recommending, developing, and implementing strategies, initiatives, and organizational change.  

Redmond, a global city that attracts residents from around the world, is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

“We envision a community where all residents can fully and effectively access city services, influence city policy and direction, and feel a sense of belonging,” says Mayor Angela Birney. “Cecilia brings the experience, education, and vision to lead Redmond towards our vision of being a welcoming and inclusive community for all.”  

Martínez-Vásquez holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and Comparative American Cultures/Ethnic Studies, with a minor in Women’s Studies, from Washington State University, and a Master of Science in Justice and Social Inquiry from Arizona State University. She has worked with many different organizations and individuals on the Eastside and across King County as the Multicultural Center Manager at Shoreline Community College and with the Wrap-Around Services Program at the City of Bellevue.  

Cecilia grew up in the Yakima Valley, the daughter of farmworkers. The experiences of her youth paved the path for social justice-driven equity, diversity, and inclusion work while an undergraduate at Washington State University. Her work, education, and personal experiences have allowed for exposure to many areas of diversity including socioeconomics, culture of poverty, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, ageism, disabilities, and more.  

For questions and more information, contact Jill Smith, Communications Manager, at jesmith@redmond.gov or 425-556-2448. This press release is available  www.redmond.gov/PressReleases

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Cecilia Martínez-Vásquez

City of Redmond Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Manager, Cecilia Martínez-Vásquez
Photo Courtesy of the City of Redmond