The term “diversity, equity, and inclusion” has become a weapon. Recently, it has become mainstream to label DEI as unfair and a way to restrict opportunities for some individuals. It is time to revisit the concept because practicing DEI makes us all better human beings.
We teach our children to be courteous and respectful of the physical and emotional needs of others. DEI extends this respect, courtesy and empathy in the community or workplace. Accommodating religious practices such as fasting and providing space for prayer and meditation in the workplace shows respect and compassion for colleagues.
DEI is about valuing all individuals and not deeming a job candidate unqualified because they are female, have a name that is difficult to pronounce, wear a hijab, have dark skin or are otherwise different from ourselves. It is about seeking diversity and ensuring that people are not excluded for reasons unrelated to the job.
Equity is not equality, which is one of the important lessons DEI teaches us. If we give a teenager and a toddler the same bike, it would be equal. But it would not be equitable because only one of the two would have a vehicle they could use. Equity helps level the playing field by giving everyone what they need even if their needs are not the same.
Diversity is challenging, but growth only happens when we push ourselves to consider new views. As champions for women and girls, we advocate to ensure that their talents are developed and utilized to advance our communities, organizations and country. Let’s mobilize this commitment to DEI by uplifting those companies and organizations that are still enacting these ideals. Challenge yourself to reach out to your legislators and ask them to uphold the value of diversity and encourage equity and inclusion everywhere.
Nikki Batsch, President, AAUW Naperville Area
Laura Welch, President, Illinois NOW
Susan Craighead, President, League of Women Voters of Naperville
Jill Lexier, Advocate, National Council of Jewish Women, Chicago North Shore
Mesiacos has experience, commitment to Aurora
This is an endorsement of Ted Mesiacos for mayor, three-term alderman, Aurora businessman, architect with advanced urban planning degree, lifetime Aurora resident.
I believe Ted holds the same values and commitment to Aurora as my husband, deceased former Aurora Mayor Tom Weisner. Ted has high integrity, is deeply concerned about Aurora city government transparency, accountability, public safety and serves on related Council committees. He voted against the recent property tax increase. He values every community member, serving on several not-for-profit boards, contributing his professional expertise.
Ted plans to be mayor full-time. As wife of a three-term mayor, I know it takes full-time and more. You are mayor 24 hours a day. Full-time commitment is an important consideration when supporting a candidate. Mayor Irvin is running, but also has a job with Castle Law in Oak Brook, announced in The Beacon. This doesn’t demonstrate commitment to Aurora or ability to be full-time mayor.
There is also campaigning by other candidates on political party affiliation. Residents may not know that city of Aurora elections are non-partisan; national political affiliations play no official role in our elections. Candidates don’t run as Democrats or Republicans, just as mayoral candidates. This is how Ted is running.
City government is closest to the needs of residents’ everyday lives – snow plowing, garbage pickup, street lights, road repair, public safety, sensible economic development for low property taxes. National partisan platforms have little to do with running a city, which is why decades ago residents voted to make Aurora city elections non-partisan.
I hope you will vote in the Feb. 25 primary. Our government is only truly representative if we all participate in elections.
If you are interested in finding out more about Ted Mesiacos and his plans for Aurora, please visit www.MesiacosForMayor.com.
Marilyn Weisner, Aurora
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