DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson advances racism resolution as public health issue

DeKalb County is taking a bold stand against racial injustice, reaffirming its commitment to equity and inclusion during a recent Committee of the Whole meeting. Commissioner Larry Johnson's resolution, originally passed in June 2020, declaring racism a public health crisis, was highlighted as a pivotal moment for the county.

In a passionate address, officials reflected on the societal upheaval of 2020, emphasizing the need for sustained action rather than retreating from commitments made during the Black Lives Matter movement. "DeKalb County is not retreating. DeKalb County is moving forward," one commissioner stated, underscoring the importance of the plans laid out for advancing equity within the county's operations.

The meeting focused on a roadmap for implementing recommendations aimed at fostering a more equitable environment within the county's workforce of 6,000 employees. Officials expressed excitement about the potential impact of these initiatives, which include additional training and setting expectations for equity across all departments.

As the county prepares for mid-year budget discussions, there is a clear call to action for funding these critical next steps. The commitment to equity is not just a momentary response but a sustained effort to transform DeKalb County into a more inclusive community. The discussions signal a determination to ensure that the progress made is not lost, but rather built upon in the years to come.