While there has been a significant effort by the Trump Administration to eliminate references to diversity, equity and inclusion at a national level and shut down programs designed to address inequities, in Westchester on Feb. 13 a completely different approach was highlighted.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins, together with the Westchester County African American Advisory Board (AAAB), announced the findings of the latest report examining the quality of life of African American residents living in Westchester. Titled Blueprint for Change, the new report is a follow-up to the first Blueprint report on the subject that was created in 2010. The new report contains the results of studies of four areas: economic development, education, housing, and health and human services. The report was prepared by Edwards Consulting Group LLC, and led to the AAAB developing a list of 14 recommendations detailing how Westchester County government might enhance policies and programs to improve the lives of Black residents.
“Studies like the Blueprint for Change help us gather necessary insights into the potential problems that may influence our residents,” Jenkins said. “Together we will continue to move Westchester County forward, fostering an inclusive and more supportive environment for all, regardless of race, ethnicity or economic status. As your newly elected county executive I want to continue to pledge our dedication to having a fair and equitable Westchester County regardless of race, ethnicity or economic status.”
Barbara Edwards, who chairs the AAAB, said, “This document is a comprehensive initiative that aims to address and eliminate disparities that have impacted the African American community.”
Edwards said that the report is a blueprint for action and a call for hope as well as being a testament to the desire that exists to create a more equitable and just society.
“It highlights the stark realities and systemic barriers that African American communities face daily and presents a comprehensive set of recommendations to address these issues,” Edwards said. “We seek to ensure that every child has access to quality education and the services they need to succeed. In economic development, we aim to create opportunities for financial stability and wealth-building. In housing, we strive to provide safe, affordable and accessible homes for all.”
One of the recommendations growing out of the report calls for leaders from the business sector to be brought together to create more pipelines for students to move from high school to careers in the workforce, or have multiple pathways to enter institutions for higher learning.
It also is recommended that the county partner with state and local departments of labor and unions to establish internships and routes that lead to careers in climate change and energy, construction and other related industries. The county is urged to continue working for more affordable housing and work on ways to make both rentals and home purchases more affordable.
County government is urged to bring together people who have the ability to transform public education and find ways to produce better educational outcomes for all students.
