Ad Hoc Committee for Racial Equity and Inclusion

The City Council and the City of Dover are committed to eliminating systemic racism and building a stronger community that is safe and welcoming for all people. The City is also committed to being inclusive, representative, and responsive to historically underrepresented and underserved communities, particularly communities of color, immigrants, and refugees. That commitment extends to all City of Dover departments and functions. The City Council’s creation of the Committee for Racial Equity and Inclusion is a step in assisting the City of Dover in fulfilling its commitment by conducting a systematic review of municipal operations and creating actionable items for the City of Dover to execute.

The City Council committed to creating this public committee at its June 24, 2020, when the City Council unanimously passed the resolution, “Condemning Racism and Affirming City of Dover’s Commitment to Eliminating Racial Inequities.” This resolution came in the wake of African American George Floyd’s tragic death, who was killed in police custody in Minneapolis, Minnesota. At its Oct. 28, 2020 meeting, the City Council formed the Committee for Racial Equity and Inclusion and appointed its members at its Dec. 9, 2020 meeting.

Committee Purpose

The purpose and authority of this Committee is to review data, hold listening sessions, and recommend to the City Council and City Manager, an action plan outlining existing and new steps to be taken to work to eliminate systemic racism in municipal operations, including boards and commissions, and foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. The Committee shall work closely with City staff through the City Manager to gather necessary information on municipal operations, and will coordinate as necessary with the Dover Schools Racial Equity Vision Keepers Committee. The Committee’s authority and existence shall be advisory and for a limited duration.