(A) The Village of South Elgin strives to be a community that is safe, welcoming, respectful, and engaging to all people in all aspects of village life, including, but not limited to, employment, commerce, housing, recreation, faith practices, access to resources, and civic engagement.
(B) The definition of "all people" is inclusive and covers race; color; sex; pregnancy; gender identity; gender expression; sexual orientation; religion or no religion; veteran status; mental, intellectual, and emotional abilities or disabilities; physical abilities or disabilities; genetic information; health condition; age; economic status and income; profession; education level; national origin, ethnicity, or immigration status; language(s) spoken, written, or read; dress and other customs and choices; appearance; and any other characteristics of diversity.
(C) The Village of South Elgin acknowledges the existence of racism, discrimination, and inequitable treatment in our country and is committed to being a community where all feel a sense of belonging. To realize this goal will require the ongoing commitment of residents, elected officials, and staff. It shall be the intent and purpose of the Committee for Equity and Belonging to:
(1) Learn more about our community through a variety of community engagement avenues including, but not limited to, surveys, one-on-one meetings, community meetings, existing demographic data sources, and suggestion boxes. Over time, use this data to create metrics and track progress or setbacks.
(2) Communicate with our community by providing resources in varying languages, targeting communication to underserved groups, and cultivating resources in a variety of formats including through village staff, printed publications, social media, and the website.
(3) Support equity and inclusion in the community by creating targeted programs, reviewing village policies and procedures, and advising the Village Board regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion.
(4) Celebrate diversity through hosting events and highlighting the village's history and diversity.
(5) Perform such other duties as determined to be necessary or convenient to effectuate the goals set forth in this section.
(Ord. 2023-06, passed 2-6-23)