Letter: Appointments must reflect city's ideals
The city of Naperville has taken great strides in advancing its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. The city website states, "The city of Naperville is intentional about diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in Naperville and recognizes that diversity in our community and organization makes the city stronger. Advancing equity and inclusion is not a project, rather a constant process of improvement. Naperville is committed to increasing the city's emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion in the organization and the community."
As such, actions matter as much as words. The individuals appointed by the mayor and approved by city council to boards and commissions must advance the values and strategic direction of the city as well as fulfill the job requirements of each position.
This is particularly important for members of the Special Events Cultural Amenities (SECA) Commission and the Naperville Public Library Board of Trustees, both of which have openings for new appointees. We are proud of the progress Naperville has achieved with the help of these boards toward becoming a community welcoming to all. We are diverse and that makes our community stronger.
Members of these boards must not espouse racist views, marginalize members of the LGBTQ+ community, promote an agenda at the expense of others, or sow divisiveness. In considering new appointees, AAUW Naperville Area, The League of Women Voters of Naperville, Illiois National Organization for Women, and National Council of Jewish Women, Illinois, urge the mayor and city council to seek and approve people with proven expertise suited to the role and with a history of viewpoints and actions which are inclusive, which foster belonging of all individuals, and which will move us forward as a diverse community.
Sue Topp, President, AAUW Naperville Area; Becky Simon. President, League of Women Voters of Naperville; And three others representing Naperville AAUW, Illinois NOW and the National Council of Jewish Women, Illinois