The Historical Commission of Concord convened on January 26, 2024, to discuss the integration of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into the town's planning and historic preservation efforts. The meeting highlighted the importance of weaving DEI principles throughout the town's initiatives, as emphasized in the Envision Concord document.

Commission members expressed the need for diverse participation in focus groups, acknowledging Concord's demographic challenges in fostering a more inclusive community. One member noted their experiences in more diverse environments and pointed out that Concord's historical narrative often centers on a predominantly white perspective, particularly regarding its Revolutionary War history. The discussion underscored the necessity of broadening the historical narrative to include the diverse stories and contributions of various groups throughout Concord's history.

The commission also explored the intersection of historic preservation and housing, suggesting that smaller, historically significant homes could serve as naturally affordable housing options. This approach aligns with the town's goals of promoting inclusivity and accessibility in housing.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the importance of heritage tourism and how it can be leveraged to tell a more comprehensive story of Concord's past. Members agreed that the town should actively seek to highlight the contributions of indigenous peoples and other historically marginalized groups in its historical interpretations.

As the meeting concluded, the commission recognized the need for ongoing dialogue and collaboration with the DEI committee and other stakeholders to ensure that these principles are effectively integrated into all future planning and preservation efforts. The next steps will involve gathering more information and resources to support these initiatives, with a commitment to making Concord a leader in inclusive historic preservation.