RESOURCE:

Racial Equity Statement

The City of Ferndale is intentional about creating equity in everything we do. We believe in leading with racial equity—working with our residents, elected officials, visitors, employees, and other stakeholders to realize this goal. We strive to be a welcoming, inclusive community in which racial identity and other characteristics that have been used to create inequity are no longer a factor in how people enjoy and achieve success.

Commitment to Racial Equity

On June 8, 2020, Ferndale City Council unanimously passed a Declaration of Commitment to Antiracism. While the City had been working to become more inclusive over the previous 10 years, this declaration solidified our commitment to anti-racism. In this document, Council asserts that racism is a critical public health crisis affecting our nation, state, county region, and City. They directed the City Manager’s office to research and make recommendations to Council for creating a community advisory board for the Ferndale Police Department which is now active.

What is Anti-Racism?

Anti-racism is the active process of identifying and eliminating racism by changing systems, organizational structures, policies and practices, and attitudes, so that power is redistributed and shared equitably.

Racial Equity Action Team

The Racial Equity Action Team is the internal body that brings all the information regarding Equity together from all sources within the City.

 

We incorporate comments, information, and ideas from our community, internal departments and from other stakeholders to create cohesive documents, policies, procedures, and recommended interventions that provide direction in our pursuit toward achieving Racial Equity within the City.

 

We are empowered by the City Manager’s office with the support of the City council to serve as an engine for change, leading the way and enticing others to come along as we build momentum toward ensuring equitable outcomes for all.