During a recent meeting of the Community Diversity Engagement Committee in Keizer, Oregon, members engaged in a thorough discussion about the definitions of key concepts such as justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. The committee emphasized the importance of ensuring that these definitions resonate with the community and reflect their understanding and concerns.

One of the main topics was the inclusion of "justice" in the committee's framework. Members acknowledged that while justice is a broad concept that can take many forms, it is integral to the city’s values. The committee noted that feedback from previous sessions indicated a need for clarity on these terms, particularly from the Volunteer Coordinating Committee (VCC), which had expressed concerns about the political implications of the term "justice."

To address these concerns, the committee proposed to refine their definitions and ensure they are accessible to all community members. They discussed the need to gather input directly from residents to understand what aspects of these definitions may be unclear or uncomfortable for them. This approach aims to foster a more inclusive dialogue and ensure that the community feels represented in the definitions being used.

Additionally, the committee reviewed changes to their questions regarding community engagement, aiming to simplify and clarify them for better understanding. They plan to present these refined definitions and questions in an upcoming joint session with the VCC, ensuring that all voices are heard and considered in the ongoing discussions about community values.

As the committee moves forward, they remain committed to engaging with residents and neighborhood associations to gather diverse perspectives, ultimately striving for a more inclusive and equitable community in Keizer.