About Us
Office of Equity and Engagement
About Us
Our Mission
The Office of Equity and Engagement’s mission is to advance policy and systemic change that fosters liberation and belonging among our Grand Rapids community. To reach this ideal state, OEE focuses on six core functions:
- Tool Creation, to provide staff with templates and guides for equity in decision-making;
- Equity Learning Opportunities, to encourage a unified voice and approach to equity among all staff;
- Support Departments in Equity Leadership, by offering tailored DEI trainings and technical assistance to departments;
- Supplier Diversity, to support the local economy by connecting small businesses to City contracting opportunities;
- Community Diversity Activities, to support local cultural or heritage celebrations and develop the skills of community leaders; and
- Build an Internal Culture of Equity, by holding staff accountable to certain harassment and diversity policies and supporting the work of all departments to move the City to a values-based workplace culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
Overview
We promote Community, Workforce, and Supplier Diversity for our employees and residents. We make sure the City complies with civil rights laws.
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on race, color or national origin, in any program, service or activity that receives federal funds.
Our Areas of Focus
Build An Internal Culture of Equity
OEE is the leading department to create tools, trainings, and equity leadership opportunities across City departments. We create and facilitate a spectrum of opportunities – from tailored department trainings to monthly Heritage Month Celebrations – in a coordinated effort to increase cultural competency and equity subject matter expertise among all staff.
Support Supplier Diversity
OEE is an integral part of the City’s broader efforts to support the local economy by managing and innovating within the space of Supplier Diversity. By collaborating with multiple departments such as Engineering, Purchasing, and Economic Development, OEE observes metrics that support the connection of small, local, woman- and/or minority-owned business to City contracting opportunities.
Create Community Opportunity
OEE directly supports community leaders to lead with equity for the betterment of their neighborhood. We create and support Community Diversity Activities such as cultural celebrations, community-led workshops, and revitalization efforts through targeted leadership development and grant opportunities for Grand Rapids residents.
Increase External Equity Leadership
In addition to Creating Community Opportunity for equity, OEE also strives to ensure all Grand Rapids communities have what they need to fully engage with their local government. We host several efforts to promote community education and participation in democracy and other City or National efforts to engage neighbors.
Contact Us
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Demographics Statement
Check out how we incorporate demographics in our processes to embed equity throughout our organization.
Download a list of Continued Educational Resources.
