The Office of Social Justice (OSJ) is committed to undoing institutional, and structural racism that exists in the County.
Embracing equity, requires us to identify, name, and dismantle institutional racism, oppression, and injustice of all types. Racism is used to exclude and oppress people who are non-white/European, labeling them as the ‘Other.’ We acknowledge that racism is ingrained in our history and deeply embedded in our institutions today, leading to the inequities we see across all sectors. Institutionalized racism has existed for centuries, and it will take time to undo the damage. The Office of Social Justice is committed to making anti-racism work the primary focus area of our service to the public, as the Office of Social Justice also challenges and seeks to undo discrimination against immigrants and refugees, the LGBTQIA+ community, people living with disabilities, women, and any others facing oppression and exclusion.
The Office of Social Justice recognizes that inequities exist because of racism, injustice, and systemic oppression that hinder opportunities for individuals, businesses, and communities to thrive. Eliminating racism, injustice, and oppression requires change, and the Office of Social Justice is committed to interrupting and working to dismantling historical systems of oppression.
The Office of Social Justice acknowledges that we can only achieve equity and justice for all if the communities' experiencing inequities where they live, work, and play are at the center of our work. Communities know best their assets, and needs, and solutions. The Office of Social Justice will intentionally engage the community and convene meeting spaces to listen, learn, and seek community input to inform our thinking and guide our work.