The virtual meetings will be held on select days in June and will be limited to no more than ten participants.
“At this time when our community cries out for change, the next steps must involve all of us. I’ve spent a lot of my time as Mayor listening. But my perspective is limited because I am white. I’ve done my best and tried to have these conversations through the years, but if people of color still don’t feel heard, that’s my responsibility not theirs,” said Mayor Harless. “Across the country and the world, groups are gathering just to be heard. I want to provide a structured, thoughtful way for members of the Paducah community to engage with each other and truly listen so that together we can identify ways to strengthen our resolve to be a city committed to equality and inclusion which ultimately leads to growth and success.”
Each virtual meeting will be co-facilitated by a community member who has agreed to take part in the conversations. In addition, members of the Paducah City Commission and McCracken County Judge Executive Craig Clymer have been invited to listen and participate in the sessions. Due to open meeting laws, only one commissioner will be present on each call. Meetings will be held at 6 pm on the following dates: June 10-12, June 15-19, June 22, June 25-26, and June 29-30.
“What we discuss with the community over the next few weeks will be crucial as we work with local diversity and inclusion groups, community and faith leaders, and the Paducah Police Department in the development of an action plan that works to tear down structural racism locally. This community deserves nothing less. I hope one day we will have these issues resolved in our community. But until then, we must keep working,” Harless added.
To sign up for a time slot in one of the 'Community Conversations', visit https://bit.ly/communityconvo20 or click the link below.
On the Net:
Community Conversations: Join a Conversation
