Andover's New DEI Commission To Meet Public Thursday

ANDOVER, MA — Andover's Commission on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is holding an online public meeting to introduce itself to the public and present its strategic plan Thursday, the town said.

The commission is co-hosting the event with Courageous Conversations, Andover DIVERSE and Memorial Hall Library.

Residents can register for the event on Zoom.

The commission will also take questions and share information on getting involved.

"The Town of Andover recently completed a Diversity Audit to better understand the lived experiences of those who call Andover their home and/or place of work in the interest of working to combat racism and discrimination by supporting programs, initiatives, education, outreach, policies, and institutional change which contribute to an inclusive Andover," the town said. "In the hope of making sustained, concrete progress where social justice and equity are concerned, the Town is creating a series of working groups comprised of municipal representatives, Commission on DEI representatives and interested community members who, together, will help make Andover a safe, welcoming and culturally competent community."

The following working groups will be formed:

• Data Gathering and Citizen Engagement
• Communications/PR
• School Curriculum and Culture
• Diversity in Hiring
• Leadership Development
• Racial Climate and Reporting
• Community Activities

Anyone interested can contact Director of Community Services Jemma Lambert at jemma.lambert@andoverma.us.

More information about the event is available here.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.