Background

Evolution of Our Region’s Demographic Diversity

History has shaped the evolution of our region’s demographic diversity. It has also contributed to structures and systems that have historically marginalized and excluded certain segments of the population over others. Unfortunately, as the Metropolitan Planning Council points out in its report “The Cost of Segregation,” present day government policies and practices in the region, though not explicitly discriminatory or exclusive, may unintentionally maintain “the inherited segregation of past eras” by benefitting populations that have not been subject to historic marginalization over those who have.

The legacies of discrimination are pervasive and discreet. They cross community and jurisdictional boundaries and are deeply embedded in the social and economic fabric of our region. And yet all too often, these disparities run undetected, flying under the radar of those who may not experience them first-hand.

All these factors contribute to the complexity of addressing equity and inclusion at the local level. Even the most welcoming of communities may find that they engage more with some groups of residents than others. They may have outdated codes or policies that have unintentionally caused harm or excluded certain groups from participating fully in the community. Perhaps the community has witnessed a gradual shift in its demographics while its staff and elected officials have remained largely the same, leaving them vulnerable to overlooking the needs of their new residents.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Each community has its own unique history, demographic characteristics, and socio-economic profile that will impact its needs and priorities. However, all communities can benefit from taking a step back and asking themselves the following questions: