CB2 announces Equity Working Group and posts letter to community on systemic racism

Manhattan Community Board 2 announced the formation of an Equity Working Group and circulated a letter to the district inviting feedback, public comment and signatures from board members.

Why this matters: In the wake of widespread protests following the killing of George Floyd and local incidents that renewed focus on racial justice, CB2’s leaders said the board should examine internal policies and local procedures and recommend specific changes to address systemic racism and disparate outcomes.

What the board said - The letter notes Juneteenth as the historical context for launching the effort and asks the community to submit comments and suggestions that will inform the Equity Working Group’s first meeting on June 30. - The working group’s objectives include reviewing CB2 policies, collecting community input, and proposing steps the board can take to promote racial equity in its own procedures and in local affairs.

How residents can participate - CB2 will post the letter and a public comment path on its website and distribute it to the board’s contact lists. The Equity Working Group will hold its first convening June 30; the board invited residents and stakeholders to send written comments in advance.

Quote from the meeting "This letter signifies our commitment to end the widespread systemic injustice and violence targeting Black people in America by pledging our commitment to racial justice within Community Board 2," the working group said as it introduced the statement.

Ending: The group will name members and begin an agenda of review and public outreach; board members present signed on at the meeting and additional signatories will be collected after the session.