Town of Wayland Update on Human Rights, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Efforts

WAYLAND — The Town of Wayland announces the approval of a town-wide equity assessment, as recommended by the HRDEI (Human Rights, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) Committee.  

In its letter to the Select Board dated Dec. 30, the HRDEIC states, “The purpose is to help the Town achieve its goal of being an “anti-racist and ethnically unbiased community” by evaluating policies, practices, systems, and competencies in place to support this goal.” On March 6, the Board voted unanimously to approve the funds needed to start the equity assessment process immediately.

The HRDEIC was created in March of 2021 and includes 16 appointed members who advise the Select Board on all things HRDEI related. The Committee has provided invaluable guidance to the Select Board, which has resulted in more informed discussions and decisions on all matters HRDEI related. In addition to more effective policies and procedures, the Town has looked to other areas for improvement. 

 
Relatedly, the Town is in the preliminary stages of planning for and hosting a community conversation on HRDEI-related issues. This event will utilize a professional facilitator to assist in a conversation on HRDEI issues, including what it truly means to be an “equitable community,” and how the Town can take those next steps as a community to allow for “transformative learning, healing and change.”

Town Manager Michael McCall stated, “The Town has experienced a number of high-profile events which in turn has required us as Town leaders to take a hard look at what we can we do to help move this community forward.”

Select Board Chair Cherry Karlson added, “Wayland has always been a welcoming community, however, it is simply not enough to make inclusionary statements. We need to show a commitment to the importance of this issue. The Select Board fully understands that there is more work to do, and I believe we are on the right path to making Wayland a community where all residents and employees feel they belong.”