The Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) and The Campaign School at Yale University will host a virtual two-day training program designed to encourage more people of color to engage in local politics through elected and appointed office.
The training program is titled “Representation Matters: Running for Local Office and Civic Engagement” and will be held on Zoom on Feb. 25 and March 4 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. According to CCM, Blacks, Hispanics and Asians account for more than 30% of Connecticut”™s population, they represent a relatively small proportion of elected local and state public officials and state board and commission members.
“One of the founding principles of this nation is the ideal of a representative government, and it is a goal America is still striving for,” said Joe DeLong, CCM Executive Director and CEO. “Increasing racial diversity and input in local elected and appointed public office will broaden perspectives and ensure greater appreciation for civic appreciation. This effort will help foster a more equitable future.”
The two-day program is also sponsored by the Connecticut Interlocal Risk Management Agency, the Connecticut General Assembly”™s Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity and Opportunity, the Parent Leadership Training Institute in Stamford, the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education and Connecticut Public Broadcasting.
