Alachua County invites residents to join the newly created Equity Advisory Council (EAC). The eight-member EAC advises the County Commission and works alongside staff and the community to build open dialogue and partnerships and to implement County plans. The EAC is taking applications until October 16, 2023, for its initial council.
The EAC is looking for members of the community with the following characteristics: a commitment to racial and gender equity, social and environmental justice, diversity, and inclusion; the ability to work collaboratively with people of diverse perspectives and experiences; connections with local historically marginalized communities; experience/expertise in education, employment, housing, health and human services, criminal justice, or business; and experience, skills, and knowledge in policy development, research, evaluation, program/service design, and delivery.
Two initial appointments are for a one-year term, two are for a two-year term, and three are for three-year terms. After the initial appointment, all members will serve three-year terms.
The purpose of the EAC is to assist the County Commission in achieving equity in its community and work. Specific plans include establishing an annual work program for the Equity Advisory Council and assisting and advising the County on equity action plans. The EAC also collaborates with Alachua County Staff on citizen participatory research related to organization and departmental equity plans and processes; assists the County in reviewing policies, programs, and services for racial and gender bias; and recommends eliminating such bias. The EAC engages with other County committees, relevant stakeholders, agencies, non-profits, and communities related to equity and ensures that input from neighborhoods and communities that are most impacted or disadvantaged by racial and social inequity is included in the development of policy recommendations and the design and delivery of County programs and services.
“Please join Alachua County in becoming part of the change we want to see in the world,” said Alachua County Equity and Community Outreach Manager Diedre Houchen. “Join us in creating a stronger, more inclusive, equitable Alachua County.”
