The Loveland, CO Equity in Our Community Report 2021
Loveland, Colorado, like many communities is a wonderful place but we can always be better, and we are taking steps in that direction, as the South Larimer Discussion Group of our LWV heard from our Public Library Manager of Adult and Technical Services, Amy Phillips.
The Loveland Public Library was accepted into a program affiliated with the MIT Sloan School of Management that helps communities explore equity, diversity, and inclusion. As the first part of that effort, the library spoke with numerous, diverse organizations and people and based on those discussions, produced “Equity in Our Community Report 2021.”
Are you curious about some of the things they discovered? Here is a short synopsis of what they learned.
Current Reality: While people generally are supportive of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), they don’t know how to incorporate that into their daily lives and some community members are surprised that others do not feel included or are fearful. Some are uncomfortable speaking out and feel there is a tendency to disregard BIPOC (black, indigenous and people of color) expertise and stories. For some there is a feeling that Loveland is an enclave resisting change and not acknowledging a history of racism. Most who were interviewed felt there was a need for accurate local statistics that are available and widely shared and that building relationships, and active listening can rebuild trust and remove barriers.
What is Needed: A start is to acknowledge that racism exists. Also, we must all (including community leaders) work to eliminate racism by, for instance, treating people of color as equals, providing safe places and a culture where people are willing to talk about uncomfortable subjects, and eradicating partisan politics and instead focusing on outcomes and solutions. More money for programs, grants, institutional action and support could also help.
What We Have Going for Us: There is increasing interest in and support for DEI endeavors, and the positive impacts of that support are becoming apparent as people gain confidence expressing their different identities. We are already building community connections and pathways for understanding and potential healing.
Emerging Action Steps: We need to: build shared understanding, leverage existing initiatives, support strong community partnerships, be vocal about the value of racial equity, and ensure equal access to resources and data.
What comes next?
· The Loveland Library will be making a presentation about their services (including this project) to the Loveland City Council on March 22.
· The Library is also hoping to continue working with the MIT Sloan School to join with other communities and further explore this topic in our area.