In an effort to better understand the systemic barriers and inequities that affect the quality of life for people in Middlebury, the town is hosting a series of community conversations this month, and we’re all invited.
The conversations will take place in the evening hours in the Ilsley Library Community Meeting Room or the Middlebury Town Offices next door. Children are welcome to attend — and Children’s Librarian Tricia Allen will be there with books and games for them. Light refreshments will be provided.
Here’s the schedule of specific conversations:
LGBTQIA Affinity Group: Thursday, October 20, 6:30-8 p.m., Ilsley
BIPOC Affinity Group: Tuesday, October 25, 6:30-8 p.m., Ilsley
General Community: Thursday, October 27, 6:30-8 p.m., Middlebury Town Offices
New Americans, Immigrant-Identifying Community Members, and those for whom English is a 2nd Language: Tuesday, November 1, 6:30-8 p.m., Ilsley
People with Disabilities: Wednesday, November 2, 6:30- 8 p.m. Middlebury Town Offices
And here’s more from the town on the context of these conversations:
Over the last 18 months, Middlebury Officials, including the Selectboard, members of the Town Administration, Middlebury Police and all other Town Departments, have worked to gain a better understanding of systemic barriers and inequities that may impact the quality of life for people in Middlebury. The process has included learning sessions, internal assessments, and most recently, a public survey that gave insight into the experiences and needs of the Middlebury Community.
The next activity of this phase is deeper community engagement through community dialogue. We wish to learn more about your experiences and suggestions for how the Town of Middlebury can improve in serving the community and what the Town should celebrate, too. Our larger goal is to inform the Town of Middlebury’s Strategic Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) plan. Those who attend will also be invited to participate on the DEI steering committee to help oversee this ongoing longer-term work.
Our community is stronger when we work together, so please click here or call the Town Manager’s Office, 802-458-8001, to register! All are welcome to attend, regardless of registration. Those with need for accommodation are encouraged to pre-register several days before the event so that we can make appropriate arrangements for attendance.