Recent events have compelled all of us here at the Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities to reexamine the roles we play in fostering a community of equality and inclusion. We are an agency dedicated to serving individuals of all races, colors and creeds, but we know that we can, and we must do better. We must speak up, and speak out for racial equality. We stand against racial violence and the egregious and senseless murder of George Floyd. We stand against systemic racism, and acts of injustice, and we are dedicated to fulfilling our civic responsibility to be a force for inclusive change in our community. George Floyd matters. Black lives matter.
During the June 11, 2020 Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities’ Board Meeting, Superintendent Kristine Hodge asked the Board to consider action to support the forming of an internal employee initiative to address and eradicate racism and discrimination and foster acceptance and inclusion.
Through a unanimous vote, the Board declared their support in a formal motion which reads as follows:
The Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities hereby authorizes and fully supports the Superintendent in formulating a Diversity and Inclusion initiative, in an effort to gain a better understanding of ourselves, and to make progressive changes to realize our goal of true equality and inclusion.
While we have room to grow, the Delaware County Board of DD is committed to progress and working towards a truly inclusive society.
