Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Office

Mission

The mission of the DEI Office is to programmatically and legislatively provide support, resources and to host a sense of belonging and advancement for historically marginalized communities within Framingham. The DEI Office seeks to generate opportunities and a safe space for families in the city to be civically engaged or involved and intentionally advocate for leadership that mirrors the racial, ethnic, and linguistic characteristics of the city. Through these actions, the DEI Office plans to transform City policies, programs, and practices so that every resident has equitable access to what Framingham has to offer.

DEI defined:

Source: https://www.diaglobal.org/

“Diversity”

The practice or quality of including or involving people from a range of different social and ethnic backgrounds and of different genders, sexual orientations, etc.

“Equity”

The notion of being fair and impartial as an individual engages with an organization or system, particularly systems of grievance.  “Equity” is often conflated with the term “equality” (meaning sameness).  In fact, true equity implies that an individual may need to experience or receive something different (not equal) in order to maintain fairness and access.

“Inclusion”

The practice or policy of providing equal access to opportunities and resources for people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized, such as those who have physical or mental disabilities and members of other minority groups.