Dark

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The City of Happy Valley is one of the most diverse communities in Oregon. As of 2021, many residents identify as Asian (22.7 percent), of two or more races (5.9 percent), and/or Hispanic or Latinx (4.4 percent). Diversity is also much more than just race in Happy Valley. The City strongly believes that diverse and vibrant backgrounds, perspectives, and abilities contribute to the health, welfare, and economy of the community. If you are looking for resources on diversity or interested in what steps that City has identified to embrace equity and inclusion, this webpage is for you.


MARCH

Celebrating Women’s History Month
This month, we recognize the incredible contributions of women throughout history. Here’s to the change-makers, unsung heroes, and everyday women who help shape our world. To celebrate, the Happy Valley Library has put together a variety of resources that shed light on the many extraordinary lives of women who have made significant impacts on society. Learn more at the link below.

www.happyvalleyor.gov/happy-valley-library/blog/womens-history

January

February

Black History Month

Lunar New Year/Chinese New Year (Feb. 10 – year of the dragon)

March

Women’s History Month

Nowruz (Persian/Iranian New Year, March 19)

May

Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Mental Health Awareness Month

June

Pride Month

Juneteenth (June 19)

July

Disability Visibility Month

September

Latine Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15)

October

Indigenous People’s Day (Oct. 14th): gives recognition to the indigenous populations affected by colonization – replaces Columbus Day.

November

Native American Heritage Month

Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead, Oct. 31-Nov. 2)


DEI Resources

Need some reading inspiration? You’re in the right place – here are some lists of books hand-picked by your Happy Valley librarians. Check back often, as they will be adding to them regularly. Have a subject you think should be explored with a new booklist? Let your librarian know!

Black Voices and Culture – Books for Adults

View Titles

Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders – Books for Adults

View Titles


DEI Strategic Plan

In 2021, after over a year of public input from the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Task Force, the City Council approved the DEI Strategic Plan.  The City of Happy Valley strongly believes that diverse and vibrant backgrounds, perspectives, and abilities contribute to the health, welfare, and economy of the community. No statement against hatred and bigotry is enough. This work takes consistent and thoughtful actions every day to foster a community that values equity and justice for all. The DEI Strategic Plan demonstrates the City’s commitment to taking these actions.

See Plan


Task Force Members

Ami Shannon
Ankur Doshi
Avi Patel
Blanca Johnson
Chip Dunn
David Pagan
Erika Preuitt

Harold Fowlkes
Jaden Andrews
Jake Lee
Joey Rachid
Ly Furrow
Mary Kozy
Nicole Nix

Sara Koyano
Steve Sirkin
Tiffany Parret
Tommy Botton
David Emami-Council Liaison
Markley Drake-Council Liaison

For more information contact:

Ben Bryant, Assistant City Manager

Timeline

The City’s formal efforts to recognize DEI as a priority started in 2019 and have taken many steps since, including:

  • March 2019: the City Council adopted a proclamation supporting local DEI efforts, as well as encouraging the community discussions that had been started by the United Community Alliance (UCA).
  • March 2020: the City Council established a goal to support and foster a community and organizational culture that embraces DEI.
  • September 2020: the City Council approved Resolution 20-27 condemning racism, supporting justice and equality, and created the DEI Task Force.
  • October 2021: the City Council approved Resolution 21-20 approving the DEI Strategic Plan.

Helpful Links

Resolution 21-20
Approving the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategic Plan
Resolution 20-27
Condemning Racism, Supporting Justice and Equality, and Authorizing the Creation of a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force