Washtenaw County to host racial equity and social justice town hall in District 3

submitted by Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners

Leadership from the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners, the Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Washtenaw County Sheriff will come together for a Racial Equity and Social Justice Town Hall at Saline City Hall. Since the formation of the Racial Equity Office in 2018, Washtenaw County has focused a diversity and equity lens on all county programs and initiatives — most recently, the advisory council on reparations.

“There has been a lot of discussion within the community about the racial and justice work being done by Washtenaw County,” said Commissioner Shannon Beeman (District 3). “This is the chance for us to come together and discuss what is happening, what is needed, and what work is still left to be done.”

The town hall will focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice while offering participants an opportunity to better understand and explore recent efforts by the county.

“The Board is proud of the work we have done thus far on racial equity and social justice. This community town hall is a great opportunity for Washtenaw County residents to engage with leaders and learn more about the work that has been done,” said Commissioner Justin Hodge (District 5), Chair of the Board. “We are taking bold steps toward justice and leading the way in Michigan on the vital work of righting systemic wrongs.”

The session will feature a moderated panel of local leaders, including Commissioners Beeman and Hodge, Administrator Geoff Dill, Prosecutor Eli Savit, and Derrick Jackson, Director of Community Engagement at the Sheriff’s office. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the panel by posing questions to them during the event.

“The City of Saline is excited to host this town hall and encouraged by the racial equity work happening at Washtenaw County,” said Saline Mayor Brian Marl.

The public will have the opportunity to connect with these leaders on Tuesday, May 9, at Saline City Hall, located at 100 N Harris St. The event will run from 6 to 7pm with time for questions and feedback.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.