YOUR COUNTY IN ACTION Equity & The Path to Reconciliation

Our community is shifting into an unapologetic anti-racist stance as we come together for peaceful vigils, marches and rallies, and taking a hard look at how County policies can be made more equitable so that they offer all of our residents equal opportunity and protection under the law.

“Equality means treating PWC Police welcomed members of a Black Lives Matter Children’s March at the Central District Station in June. everybody the same... When you talk about equity, County will participate. you’re supposed to provide access to everybody, access to conditions and Additionally, County Executive Chris opportunities…based on what they Martino declared Juneteenth, which need to succeed,” explained County commemorates the day the last Director of Human Rights Raul Torres enslaved people learned of their during a recent Board meeting. emancipation, a County holiday.

The Board directed development of a framework to weigh policies and actions through an “Equity Lens,” with a methodology to assess programs and processes for equity and inclusion, and to identify disparities.

This allows mitigation of burdens that may be placed on people based on factors such as race, gender, age, health and sexual orientation. The Government Alliance on Race and Equity recently launched a regional race and equity initiative, in which our Our Police Department is an important partner on this path toward reconciliation, as well. Already, we have seen the controversial 287g Program end. Next, look for more insight in department policies and records, along with opportunities for continued dialogue around fostering equity.

Addressing longstanding inequities in our nation, and our County, will not be easy. But it is long overdue, and we are ready for the work at hand.

Virtual Town Hall: Racial Healing & Justice Reform Join Supervisor Boddye on July 30, 6:30-8pm, for a community dialogue with leaders from Prince William’s Office of Human Rights, Police, NAACP and Public Defender’s Office. Register online: occoq.org/healing_073020