Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee

What is DEI?

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) I is not something to fear and it is important to define the meaning to understand the opportunities that can arise from using DEI strategies.

Diversity - is the various identities that we have as human beings. Our identities go beyond what we can see and include beliefs, ideology, religion, as well as other identities. Identities are how we as individuals, define ourselves, which are different from labels which are how others see us.

Equity - Is a process of differentiation so that people in the community can have access to city supports and services. The process of differentiation understands that not everyone will have their needs met in the same way. To differentiate effectively means that we have to have a relationship with those we serve to understand what their needs are to have access to city services and support.

Inclusion - Is the ability to feel valued and trusted as a part of the community. Inclusion includes being able to participate in city services and activities while having our voices heard regardless of our perspective or ideology.

Provided by Bill de la Cruz, De La Cruz Solutions (Bill de la Cruz assisted the City of Wilsonville in the formation of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee.)

DEI Committee Programs and Community Resources

The DEI Committee has curated several programs and community events, including the DEI Speaker Series, the Juneteenth Celebration, and a Las Posadas event. Visit the DEI Committee Programs page to learn more about programs and sponsorship opportunities.

The Community Resources page includes a variety of social services resources, some of which are specifically geared toward historically marginalized communities.

DEI Committee Roles & Responsibilities

Ver página en español ♦ The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee typically meets on the second Tuesday of each month (calendar/agendas available here) to identify and address systemic barriers to inclusion that exist within the City’s practices, processes, regulations, events and other initiatives. Community members are welcome to provide public input in writing or at a committee meeting. Fill out this speaker card to address the DEI Committee at one of their meeting.

Members

Karla Brashear (Chair)
Erika Pham (Vice Chair)
Aasha Patel
Carolina Wilde
Diane Imel
Elisabeth Garcia Davidson
Fay Gyapong-Porter
George Luo
Imran Haider
Jay Edwards
Justin Brown
Tracy Hester
Vacant

Members List updated August 2, 2024

On December 14, 2021 the DEI Committee established their Mission and Vision. Chair Haider presented the Mission and Vision to the City Council on December 20, 2021. The DEI Committee is currently developing their strategic plan.

Mission

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee serves to connect Wilsonville to the diverse perspectives and lived experiences of its people. We advocate for equitable access and opportunity for every community member. We identify barriers to participation and inclusion, and pursue programs, policies, partnerships and ideas that remove those barriers.

Vision

The Wilsonville Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee is a beacon of connectivity, empowered to take thoughtful action to ensure sustained community collaboration to foster a climate of inclusion and belonging for all residents in and visitors to Wilsonville.

Role

The DEI Committee was established at the direction of the Wilsonville City Council in January 2021. On May 3, 2021, the Council passed Resolution 2893, adopting the charter & bylaws. On May 17, 13 community members were appointed.

The Committee is establishing the City’s DEI Strategy, and working to identify and address that which excludes or marginalizes anyone on any basis, including and not limited to their age, gender, race, culture, sexual orientation, religion or abilities. Initially, the Committee’s initial work was guided by de la Cruz, who has worked extensively with several local municipalities to identify structural barriers and yield more inclusive cities.

Committee members serve as a direct liaison between the community and City Hall, amplifying the voices and addressing the needs of people traditionally under-represented or excluded in government.

A DEI Committee was a recommendation made by the community at a listening session with the City Council in December 2020. As the Committee establishes the City’s DEI Strategy, it may seek to address additional recommendations brought forth at the listening session. These include:

Increased Representation, Diversity on City Committees
Consistent City communication to brand Wilsonville as an inclusive community
More Inclusive Cultural Events, Celebrations & Holiday Recognitions
Education to the Broader Community (how to address bias, micro-aggressions, etc.)
Opportunities for DEI Advocates to Network and Work More Efficiently Together

For additional information, contact Zoe Mombert, Assistant to the City Manager at 503-570-1503 or DEI@ci.wilsonville.or.us.