“Secret Reader” at King Elementary
On November 19, Mikal Washington (Equity and Engagement Department) participated as a “secret reader” at King Elementary School’s Family Reading Night. He engaged students by reading to them while offering encouragement and support to promote literacy. The event provided an opportunity for students and their families to come together to celebrate reading and inspire a […]
Boy Scouts of America Troop 101
On November 14, 2024, Mikal Washington (Equity and Engagement Department) led a diversity, equity, and inclusion training for the Boy Scouts of America Troop 101. As part of the session, Scouts were tasked with interviewing an individual from their community, school, or scouting network who has made a significant, positive impact in promoting diversity, equity, […]
Neighborhood Canvassing Building Trust
On November 15,2024, staff from the Equity and Engagement and Neighborhood Services Departments conducted a neighborhood canvass in the area surrounding the 300 Block of Nelson Court. The neighborhood canvass was a proactive step to engage directly with those who may have been impacted by gun violence in the area. By distributing flyers and initiating […]
DEI | Microaggressions Training
On Tuesday, November 12, 2024, Janel Gomez, Community Relations Manager in the Equity and Engagement Department was invited to speak at Keller Williams Realty Lunch and Learn about microaggressions. Microaggressions are subtle, often unintentional, words or actions that communicate negative or derogatory messages towards a marginalized group. These can be verbal, nonverbal, or even environmental […]
Building Wellness, Advancing Equity
On Thursday, November 14, 2024, City Council Members and staff from the Equity and Engagement Department attended a Campus-Community Compact Sponsored gathering entitled “Building Wellness, Advancing Equity: A Community Gathering for Health & Human Services Professionals”. Several community organizations joined them, including the Eastern Illinois Foodbank, CU Public Health District, Habitat for Humanity, and the […]
Keynote Speaker Champaign Public Library Staff Development Day
On Friday, November 8, 2024, Rachel Joy, Equity and Engagement Department was the guest speaker for the Champaign Public Library’s staff development day. Rachel provided valuable insights into the Equity and Engagement Department and its three divisions. This informative session sparked a lively Q&A, demonstrating the interest of library staff in the department’s work. Library […]
39th Annual University of Illinois Celebration of Diversity.
On Friday, November 8, 2024, Deputy City Manager, Joan Walls, and staff from Equity and Engagement Department participated in the 39th Annual University of Illinois Celebration of Diversity. This event, a cornerstone of the university’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, brings together both university and community members to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures […]
Youth Assessment Center Advisory Board Meeting
On Tuesday, November 12,2024, Mikal Washington from the Equity and Engagement Department attended the Youth Assessment Center Advisory Board Meeting. During the meeting, participants received updates on the Youth Assessment Center, including data on program referrals and an exciting new research partnership with University of Illinois Ph.D. students and the Urbana School District. The meeting […]
Black Mental Health and Wellness Conference
On October 26, 2024 the Champaign County Community Coalition’s Race Relations Subcommittee proudly hosted the 2nd Annual Black Mental Health and Wellness Conference at Parkland College, running from 8 AM to 4 PM. This impactful event focused on the unique challenges surrounding mental health in the Black community, offering support and resources for individuals and […]
Domestic Violence Stakeholder Meeting
On October 20, 2024 a Domestic Violence Stakeholder Meeting was held at the Champaign County Courthouse. Hosted by Judge Sullivan, the meeting brought together representatives from the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office, Champaign Police Department, Urbana Police Department, Circuit Clerk’s Office, State’s Attorney’s Office, Courage Connections, Land of Lincoln, and the City of Champaign. The meeting […]