Equal Rights

Even today, the matter of “equal rights” should be prevalent and present in every decision the Town makes.  Because it is not as easily identifiable as in other times in history (such as when there was open and legal segregation of the races), it will be important if I am a member of the Board of Aldermen to run any discussion or decision through a "filter" and consider the effects it will have on the diverse populations we serve. 

We look at a situation somewhat easily through our own eyes, but it takes conscious effort to look at a situation through the eyes of all of the populations of Carrboro - male and female, young and old, parents and non-parents, citizen and non-citizen, town and annexed-area residents.  We also need to consider persons of various races, ethnicities, faiths, sexual orientations, and those of different levels of physical abilities.

I believe working at North Carolina Central University has given me a unique perspective on the issue of diversity, particularly as it relates to race.  Working in an environment where Caucasian people are in the minority has helped me to be more sensitive to traditional minorities.  It has also given me experience working with persons of other races and backgrounds in situations where we all had to work beyond our differences and toward common goals.

Another perspective I have on diversity is that as a member of the gay community, every day I am presented with inequities in our country’s laws.  I closely observe and support people and organizations working to attain equal rights for everyone, regardless of one’s sexual orientation.  I am proud that I am a resident of a town that affirmatively supports the rights of gay persons and has taken proactive measures to show where the Town stands.  I certainly will continue that support.

When I worked for the City of Durham, we had to be cognizant of recreational opportunities for persons with special needs, and for senior citizens.  Often, we would ask for input from leaders representing various groups for their input on decisions because we wanted to be certain we were creating programs or facilities that were inclusive.  I believe being proactive with citizens rather than reactive is a good practice for inclusionary governance and should be applied whenever possible.