In full transparency, the press release and photo were submitted to SOURCE media
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ASHLAND – Over the last year, the Town of Ashland through its Racial Equity Steering Group has been committed to gain a better understanding of the perspectives and experiences of people of color within our community.
In an effort to systematically collect this important information and data the Racial Equity Steering Group has contracted with Suffolk University’s Institute for Public Service to conduct focus groups and surveys.
The Steering Group hopes the community will participate and share their experiences, perspectives, and ideas.
These focus groups will provide an opportunity for the Town to improve multicultural competency and better understand the equity and racial issues facing our community.
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Join a focus group:
Tuesday, June 1st at the Corner Spot in Ashland located on 6 Cherry Street from 10 am – 11 am, 11:30 am – 12:30 pm, or 1-2 pm
Wednesday, June 2nd virtually from 9 am – 10 am, 10:30 am – 11:30 am, or Noon – 1 pm.
Thursday, June 3rd virtually from 3 pm- 4 pm, 4:30 pm -5:30 pm, or 6-7 pm
Saturday, June 5th at the Corner Spot in Ashland from 9:30 am -10:30 am, or 11 am-Noon
If you plan on attending a virtual or in-person focus group, REGISTER HERE
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These focus groups will serve as the first vital step in obtaining this vital community perspective. The information and data obtained will help shape and create the framework for an action plan to address issues and dismantle potential areas with systemic racism within the community.
When introducing the steering group in August of 2020, Town Manager Michael Herbert said, “In light of the recent murder of George Floyd and the global response it generated, I felt it was more important than ever to understand the perceptions of the town by people of color and how we can do a better job of creating an inclusive community for all.”
The Racial Equity Steering Group is composed of the Town Manager Michael Herbert, Assistant Town Manager Jennifer Ball, and community members, Rabbi Eric Gurvis, Makeda Keegan, and KG Naryana.
If you can’t attend the scheduled focus groups but want to participate or would be willing to host a group discussion, please reach out to Jennifer Ball, jball@ashlandmass.com
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