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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The City of River Falls’ commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is guided by a framework that provides space in the organization for intentional conversations, time for personal and professional growth, and opportunities for reflection of practice and progress.
Diversity is defined broadly to encompass the range of human characteristics and experiences that comprises an individual’s personality, knowledge, reactions, and perspectives.
Diversity can include, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, generational aspects, social class, physical ability or attributes, veteran status, educational background, work status, family status, religious or ethical values system, national origin, professional experiences, and political beliefs.
Equity provides for fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people, while at the same time striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups. Action around equity requires the understanding of root causes of disparities, while taking positive steps in removing barriers to promote access and inclusion.
Inclusion is the act of creating environments in which any individual or group can feel and be welcomed, respected, supported, and valued to fully participate.
Vision
To work in a City that values all people, takes an active role in learning, makes diversity, equity, and inclusion a priority, openly accepts differences, speaks up for those when bias shows up in conversation and includes, invites, and welcomes everyone in.
Mission
The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Team exists to help us better understand ourselves, our organization, and our community, as we continually find ways to value our unique differences.
Our team will work to create, and sustain, a culture of belonging for everyone as we continually strive to be an inclusive employer of choice.
Values
In its work to welcome diversity, pursue equity, and strive for inclusion, the committee will emulate these City values:
- We put people first
- We pursue excellence
- We act with integrity
- We embrace change
- We serve our community
- We consider future generations
DEI Team goals
- Develop and increase self, and organizational, awareness related to the value and importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Ensure programs, policies, and procedures are in place to build, develop, and foster a welcoming and inclusive culture.
- Include equity and inclusion considerations as a priority when delivering municipal services and conducting business interactions.
Special Heritage/Observance Months
The City of River Falls, guided by its Framework for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, is committed to engaging and embracing a rich diversity of staff, community members, and visitors. The City has identified special heritage/observance months to be recognized every year. Recognizing these special months will help acknowledge various ethnic and historically-marginalized groups, celebrate diversity, and recognize each group’s history and contributions to our society.
The City of River Falls will recognize the Heritage/Observance months listed below. Recognitions will include, but not be limited to, a City of River Falls Facebook post with a link to additional information about the month’s significance. Any River Falls Public Library programs related to the month’s observance will also be promoted.
City of River Falls Special Heritage/Observance Months
February: African American History Month
March: Women’s History Month
May: Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
June: LGBTQ+ Pride Month
September 15 – October 15: National Hispanic Heritage Month
October: National Disability Employment Awareness Month
November: National American Indian/Alaska Native Heritage Month