Introducing DIRECT: How Cities and Towns Can Engage in Racial Equity Conversations
In the aftermath of George Floyd’s death in May of 2020, communities across the country are working to address racial disparities, societal unrest and shifting cultural expectations—it can be hard to local governments to know where to begin. That’s why NCLM created DIRECT and the DIRECT Approach.
DIRECT stands for Diversity, Inclusion & Racial Equity for Cities and Towns, and it works alongside municipal officials to acknowledge existing inequalities, identify local history and data, and examine municipal policies and procedures that contribute to structural and systemic racism in local communities. Through this shared understanding and knowledge, DIRECT empowers local officials to develop strategies that work toward stronger, more equitable communities.
This webinar will provide the basics city and town leaders need to advance discussions and local efforts on racial equity. Webinar attendees will have the opportunity to learn valuable information and engage in meaningful conversations. The course includes:
· Discussion of the importance of racial equity and its associated values
· Review of historical events that have impacted racial equity at the national, state, and local level
· Examination of relevant data that impacts racial equity
· Strategies and tools for practical solutions at the local level
· Participation in a racial wealth gap learning simulation
The DIRECT webinar is available to members for $65 plus applicable taxes and $75 plus applicable taxes to nonmembers. Attendees who complete the course will earn 2.5 credit hours toward AML’s Order of Municipal Leadership.
If your town wants to address racial inequities, but you’re not sure where to start, Introducing DIRECT: How Cities and Towns Can Engage in Racial Equity Conversations is the first step in learning more. Register today!
About DIRECT
Like many organizations in the aftermath of George Floyd, the North Carolina League of Municipalities Board of Directors committed to investigating ways city and town leaders could advance racial equity in their communities. As a result of its commitment, the Board established the Task Force on the Impact of City Leaders on Racial Equity, and subsequently, the DIRECT program. DIRECT which stands for Diversity, Equity and Racial Equity for Cities and Towns, is a curriculum developed by the N.C. League of Municipalities to raise awareness and provide city and town leaders with shared language and understanding to advance local discussions and efforts on racial equity.
DIRECT helps North Carolina cities and towns, as well as their elected and appointed officials, strengthen their communities by identifying and addressing racial disparities at the local level. Learn more at www.nclm.org/DIRECT.