Among the values statements reaffirmed in the Kent County 2019, Strategic Plan is a commitment to embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion. In embracing this as one of its core values, Kent County affirms the value and dignity of all individuals. Racism in all forms is contrary to everything for which we stand.
Racism is real, it is pervasive, and it is systemic. Racism and systemic racial injustice have a devastating impact on the health and safety; the housing, educational, and job opportunities; socioeconomic status; and the overall quality of life for people of color and all County residents. If we fail to acknowledge and address the breadth and depth of racism in our society, we will perpetuate it.
The uncomfortable reality of racism is not confined to a single system and it cannot be addressed by a single sector of our community. It will never be adequately addressed until we acknowledge its pervasive nature, understand its damage to our community, and take responsibility to leverage the power and influence in ourselves and our institutions to effectuate change.
Kent County stands firmly on the principle that the fates and the futures of all our residents are interconnected. Our happiness and success as individuals, families, and as a community are tied to our ability to see every person in Kent County as worthy of respect and dignity, and to celebrate as each reaches their full potential.
The Kent County Board of Commissioners along with the 25 departments, offices, and agencies that comprise Kent County government are committed to working with all communities to take intentional steps to rid our systems of inequity, discrimination, and racial injustice. We invite all people of Kent County to stand with us, affirm the value and dignity of every individual and work to end racism and the disparities it causes.
