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Advisory committee on racial equity presents 2024 annual report, seeks closer council coordination
Summary
The advisory committee on racial equity, inclusion and human rights presented its 2024 annual report, highlighted subcommittee work on ordinances, disability access and outreach, and asked for greater proactive council engagement.
The Advisory Committee on Racial Equity, Inclusion and Human Rights presented its 2024 annual report to the Government Operations Committee, describing four years of work to develop policy review, education and events and to advise the council on naming, accessibility and equity issues.
Vice Chair Katie Bryden summarized the committee’s structure and said subcommittees focus on policy and ordinances, events and education, resources and accessibility, and housing. Committee members said they have consulted with the Bangor Historical Society, the NAACP, the Maine Multicultural Center and downtown business organizations on accessibility and name‑review efforts. The committee asked for more proactive communication with city council so it can provide input earlier in policy and ordinance development rather than only retroactive feedback.
Councilors discussed mechanisms for that engagement: the committee requested a rotating council liaison or monthly participation by a councilor in committee meetings. Councilors and staff said the committee already meets monthly with the city manager’s office and that chairs and vice chairs meet regularly with city leadership. Committee members offered to share an equity audit and details of subcommittee work with council and staff for follow‑up.
