Community Listening Sessions planned to highlight racial equity in City services

Jackson residents have an upcoming opportunities to share their opinions about racial equity in City services. Two Listening Session events are planned on Oct. 16 and Oct. 17 for City staff to collect input from residents.

CNA, a non-profit research and analysis organization, is working with the City's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Department to conduct a racial equity audit of City operations. As part of the audit, the City is working with CNA to hold two community listening sessions.

Session 1 will focus on racial equity in citywide services and is taking place Wednesday, Oct. 16, 6 p.m. at the Jackson High School Auditorium, 544 Wildwood Ave. Session 2 will focus on racial equity in the Jackson Police Department and is happening Thursday, Oct. 17, 6 p.m. at the MLK Recreation Center, 1107 Adrian St.

Residents are invited to share experiences and provide input on how the City can improve racial equity. This is a chance to speak directly with community leaders and other residents about important issues.

DEI Director John Willis says the listening sessions will help drive change in the community. "The sessions are an important part of the racial equity audit, and will help shape future decisions and ensure fairness in our community. We're looking forward to hearing from our neighbors at these events," Willis said.

The sessions are free to attend and open to all City of Jackson residents.