We are intrigued to hear conversations in town about the need for housing diversity. We would like to contribute to this very important conversation by expanding the focus. Rather than narrow the question to: “How will we create access?” we are suggesting that we broaden our thinking and shift the question. We would like to ask: “How will we ensure that Lincoln becomes a place that diverse groups of people not only consider moving to, but where they ultimately feel part of the community and want to stay?” In other words, the focus should not only be on increasing housing options, but also on plans to shift the climate and culture of Lincoln in order to ensure that diverse populations (both new and current residents) feel valued in the community.
For the candidates who are running for the Select Board we would like to hear: If you were to move into this role how do you plan to ensure that we not only attract and create access for diverse individuals (meaning a breadth of people who represent diverse races, genders, sexualites, abilities, ethnicities, nationalities, religions, socioeconomic statuses, ages and immigration statuses) but also to ensure that Lincoln shifts its culture to become a community where all residents feel a true sense of belonging? What tools and strategies will you use to be sure that the desired outcomes of your plan are met and that the needs of residents from historically marginalized populations are met? For everyone in LIncoln, if you would like to support this work: 1. Contact your Select Candidate of choice to ensure they have a plan and encourage them to communicate that plan more broadly. 2. Contact neighbors and discuss these ideas. 3. Contact friends to get the word out. If you would like to connect with us or want to talk about joining WIDE, please email us at [email protected] or visit our website www.widelincoln.org. *Welcome, Inclusion, Diversity, Equity (WIDE) In Lincoln* *[email protected]* <[email protected]> WIDELincoln.org
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