Diversity and Inclusion Commission Begins Community Assessment Phase
The City of Lee’s Summit’s Diversity and Inclusion Commission is beginning the community assessment phase of their work and is inviting community members to share experiences and ideas around diversity and inclusion by participating in a community survey. The online survey will be conducted from April 6 – 20 and is available at cityofLS.net/D&I. Paper surveys are available at Lee’s Summit City Hall and Mid-Continent Library locations in Lee’s Summit.
The independent research firm Hicks-Carter-Hicks will conduct interviews and focus groups on the City’s behalf to capture individual perspectives and facilitate a greater understanding of Lee’s Summit’s strengths, opportunities and areas for development with respect to diversity and inclusion. The commission will use this information to develop a data-informed final report and action plan for the City Council at the conclusion of their work.
“Lee’s Summit is a welcoming, safe community where innovation thrives and people value and support different backgrounds, views, beliefs and abilities. Residents genuinely care for each other and see the future as an opportunity for progress,” said Mayor Bill Baird. “It is important that every Lee’s Summit community member participate in this process. In listening and learning from each other, we will reach our full potential and ensure that the sense of belonging already present in our community will remain for generations to come.”
The focus on diversity and inclusion in the community is an implementation step adopted by the City Council as part of the Ignite! Strategic Plan. The creation of the Diversity and Inclusion Commission supports the strategic plan by engaging citizens on this important topic.
In January 2021, City Council approved the formation of the Diversity and Inclusion Commission as a temporary advisory body to assess the current state of diversity and inclusion in Lee’s Summit. Commission members were appointed by City Council. For more information about the Diversity and Inclusion Commission visit cityofLS.net/ D-I-commission.