Diversity and inclusion can be a great catalyst to promote innovation, new ideas, and creativity.  ICMA in January published the Women Leading Government article in PM Magazine, and this article sparked a meaningful conversation about diversity and inclusion in local government. You can learn more about the impact of this article from the editor.  

ICMA is also a leading affiliate in the Women Leading Government initiative that began in November 2006.  The mission of this organization is “to help women succeed in public service by enhancing career-building models that develop leadership skills and by networking professional women in government.” Of course, diversity and inclusion encompass not only gender equity but also equity for all people.  One of ICMA’s main missions is its commitment to ensure that local governments and the association reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.  ICMA describes this commitment and the related initiatives and goals on the website.

The Knowledge Network also hosts resources on diversity and inclusion. Some of those resources include:

1. “Diversity…the missing voice” – The city of Austin, Texas, developed its 3-1-1 system as an engagement tool that promotes diversity and inclusion by removing all barriers to ensure that all their citizens can participate.
2. “A New Frontier in Diversity” – This PM Magazine article discusses the topic of LGBTQ and local government management.
3. “Equity in Sustainability” – Learn why and how leading cities are making equity a central theme in their sustainability efforts in this document by the Urban Sustainability Directors Network.
4. “Policies for Community Wealth Building” – This document discusses the best practices in building community wealth, and one of those practices is to develop inclusion goals.
5. Community Diversity – This topic page includes numerous relevant resources.  

Can you add to the discussion or add a document that your government uses when committing to diversity, inclusion, and equity?

Douglas Shontz

Knowledge Network Intern