ELLICOTT CITY, Md. — Councilmembers Jones and Rigby have filed legislation establishing Howard County’s first Racial Equity Task Force.
The Racial Equity Task Force will be charged with recommending legislation to the Howard County Council to address racial disparities and inequities in Howard County.
“Discussing race is not an easy topic, but to make sure we are fostering an even level playing field, for residents of color, we must continue to strive for an equitable and inclusive county, that will advance racial equity and social justice,” said Councilmember Jones.
The task force will be comprised of subgroups exploring personal and public safety, land-use and housing policy, economic and workforce development, public health and environmental policy, education, and legislative processes.
“As leaders in Howard County, we must remain steadfast and progressive in removing obstacles that currently exist for our communities. This task force will elevate the voices of our community and establish actionable recommendations for the council to implement,” said Councilmember Jones.
“Howard County is a diverse and multicultural community, and this is an opportunity to ensure that we have equitable and inclusive laws,” said Councilwoman Christiana Rigby. “The purpose of this Task Force is to create a foundation for the legislative branch to analyze systemic racial inequity and take direct actions to support racial equity in our community.”
If approved by the County Council, The Racial Equity Task Force is expected to begin its work in November 2020 and will meet through July 2021.
