Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion


About the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Department

The Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion was created in Sept. 2020. The department operates under the City's Chief Equity Officer. 

This department works with the City Manager to create, maintain and promote opportunities that enhance diversity, inclusion and equity within the City.

Mission Statement 

The City of Jackson Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will with all intent and purpose create an environment where all of its residents and employees feel valued, included, and empowered help make Jackson better.

Understanding and appreciating that each person’s unique experiences, perspectives, and viewpoints across our various departments and communities are critical to creating a diverse and inclusive city, our goal is to create a work environment and a community that welcomes these experiences and empowers all to participate in creating and revising policies, procedures, and experiences that are equitable to all.

Our equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts will consist of:

  • Embracing diverse cultures, ethnicities, genders, physical differences, life experiences, and sexual orientations so they are included in our policies, procedures, and opportunities.
  • Creating a work environment that welcomes all, and that fosters growth opportunities and advancement.
  • Engaging with our citizens, employees, businesses, and collaborative partners in a way that reflects and respects unique perspectives and personal experiences.
  • A commitment to constantly monitor our progress towards our DEI efforts and to evaluate annually the objectives of each so that they align with our mission statement.

Juneteenth Social Justice Forum Questions and Answers 

In June 2021, the Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion collaborated with the Jackson Juneteenth Committee to host a forum with local law enforcement. Written answers to resident questions have been supplied from the Jackson Police Department, the Jackson County Sheriff's Office, Michigan State Police, and the Jackson County Prosecutor's Office. The questions and answers are available in the PDF link on this page.