DEI stands for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Diversity is the range of human differences, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, physical ability, or attributes, religious or ethical values system, national origin, and political beliefs. Equity is the process of ensuring that processes and programs are impartial, fair and provide equal opportunity for every individual. Inclusion requires active, intentional, and ongoing efforts to promote the full participation and sense of belonging of the community, employees, and other stakeholders.
In 2020, the Human Relations Commission (HRC) (appointed by City Council) conducted a community-wide diversity and inclusion survey. While the results were overall positive, there were opportunities noted in the survey to expand the City’s efforts in DEI. The HRC recommended to City Council that the City of Chandler engage a diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant to work with city departments and community stakeholders to address the key focus areas that resulted from this survey. The scope of work for this assessment is based on the results of this survey.
Several cities have adopted non-discrimination policies and/or ordinances (laws) over the years and they vary in form and content based on their City’s Council’s intent. The intent of these proposed policies is to promote an inclusive and diverse community where all individuals have the right to be treated fairly and live their lives with dignity, free from discrimination or disparate treatment. It is not the intent of this policy to regulate any businesses or religious groups.
The question of the adopting of a non-discrimination ordinance was discussed by City Council last June. At that time, a draft City Council resolution, which reflects a policy position and does not carry the weight of law, was prepared by the City Council and it is included for review as part of this assessment. The city has non-discrimination policies currently in place for City Council and its Boards and Commissions. Those policies will be presented to the stakeholder group. This group will also review the draft document and be asked to provide input into the policy for Council’s consideration. Council has the final decision-making authority on the adoption of any ordinance, resolution, or policy.
Yes. This process is will be inclusive and the City is eager to listen and learn from the community. These discussions will guide the City to build a more inclusive culture through identifying opportunities to deepen its DEI commitment and efforts as well as establish a baseline of what is working well, what improvements can be made, and how we measure progress along the way.
Yes. Several areas that were identified in the survey included training and education for city employees, recruitment efforts, and organizational best practices. This will likely occur as a second phase of the project immediately following the final recommendations resulting from the community outreach.
You can participate in several ways.
If you are interested in participating in the community stakeholder focus group, please complete an application form no later than Friday, Dec. 17, 2021. The form is hosted by CPSHR and is where you can submit your application for consideration.
If you are a city employee, focus groups will be identified in Phase 2 of the project. In addition, a citywide survey is planned. There will be more information on how to participate as we get closer to executing Phase 2.
The city’s consultant will review all applications and make recommendations to the city. Their recommendations will be based on the application with the ultimate goal of creating a diverse group of stakeholders that mirror and are inclusive of the Chandler community. This group is expected to actively participate in candid discussions which will span several meetings and commit to accurately representing their constituencies on matters concerning DEI.
Those who are unable or unwilling to participate and wish to provide feedback may submit a comment card. Those comments will be included as part of this process and assessment.
The city hired an experienced consultant, CPSHR, to facilitate discussions throughout the project and develop a final report with recommendations. The City’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Program Manager, as well as the City’s Human Relations Commission, will be actively involved during the process.
The project is expected to kick off in December 2021. The first phase of this project is expected to be completed in 3-6 months subject to the availability of participants. This assessment is an important process, and the city wants to take the necessary time to hear from all interested parties.
City Council is responsible for reviewing and acting on the recommendations of both phases of the assessment.
The city has created a webpage that includes the scope of work for the project, any forms, applications or documents produced during the study, and Frequently Asked Questions (that may be updated from time to time). This is a tool to ensure that any interested individual can get up-to-date information regarding the status of the project.
For more information, visit DEI Study.
The City of Chandler Human Relations Commission (HRC), a volunteer advisory board comprised of Chandler residents, will be involved in this process. At their Oct. 20, 2021, meeting, the Chandler HRC created a subcommittee to specifically be kept apprised of the DEI Assessment and to participate when applicable. Again, the Chandler City Council retains final authority for reviewing and acting on any recommendations generated by the assessment or the HRC.
Find out more about the Chandler Human Relations Commission and get updates on their upcoming meetings.
The City of Chandler, Arizona was founded in 1912 and incorporated in 1920. Since its early beginnings, Chandler is a vibrant, diverse community.