An initiative dedicated to promoting practices that embrace our community’s growing culture, foster understanding, and uphold respect for all individuals. Community is powerful. It can either include or exclude, uplift or marginalize. Through conscious choices, we can create a more inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and heard.
Springfield is a community that moves through collaboration. Respecting and valuing everyone’s uniqueness, abilities, and ideas brings strength to that collaborative process making our community successful.
Gary Gibson
Community Member
Inclusive Springfield is a community initiative focused on working with our community members and community leadership to enhance and achieve an inclusive economy.
Mayor’s Initiative on Equity & Equality 5 Pillars
Theses guiding principles reflect the City’s commitment to improving inclusive and equitable access to opportunities, recognizing the inherent dignity, value, and worth of each individual in our community
Dialogue and Understanding
“We are committed to…”
Seeking and listening to diverse thoughts respectfully
Fostering a culture of mutual learning through continual dialogue and education
Cultural Consciousness
“We are committed to…”
Developing awareness of our own existing biases
Understanding, valuing, and respecting diversity
Advocacy and Partnerships
“We are committed to…”
Cultivating inclusive partnerships to increase intentional and effective collaboration
Welcoming diverse voices and advocating for the underrepresented and the disenfranchised
Structural and Systemic Barriers
“We are committed to…”
Identifying and removing diversity, equity, and inclusion barriers
Refining policies and implementing practices to protect the rights of every member of our community
Personal and Organizational Accountability
“We are committed to…”
Inspiring, modeling, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion excellence
Honoring individuals and organizations that demonstrate accountability for fostering an inclusive
Vision Statement
(To build) A welcoming community where all people feel they belong and have value.
Foster Inclusivity and Diversity
Create an environment that actively celebrates and embraces diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Ensure that all voices are heard and respected by promoting open dialogue and actively seeking input from underrepresented groups. Provide diversity training and resources to help community members understand and appreciate differences.
Encourage Participation and Engagement
Develop initiatives and events that encourage active participation from all community members. Offer various ways for people to get involved, catering to different interests and abilities. Create opportunities for collaboration and ensure that everyone has a chance to contribute and feel valued.
Build a Supportive and Respective Culture
Establish a culture of respect, kindness, and support. Implement policies and practices that address and prevent discrimination, harassment, and exclusion. Promote a sense of community through regular check-ins, support groups, and recognition of individual and collective achievements. Encourage empathy and understanding through storytelling and shared experiences.
Do you have any question? Feel free to contact us anytime.
Inclusion goes beyond tolerance; It’s about actively embracing and honoring the uniqueness of every individual. Join us on our journey to becoming a community where everyone belongs.