As the next step in implementing the recommendations outlined in the City’s 2022 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Assessment and Racial Climate Survey, the City of Melrose is seeking proposals from consultants to conduct an internal equity assessment and to design and implement DEI trainings for all City staff.

The City’s goal is to become more inclusive as an employer and to ensure that all members of the Melrose community have equitable access to services and opportunities to participate in the civic life of the City. In partnership with the City of Melrose Human Resources Department as well as other relevant departments, the City will examine employment policies, procedures, benefit programs, organizational practices, and system-wide communication methods, which may directly or indirectly contribute to different experiences for staff and residents due to their identity.

“In order to ensure that the City provides all our employees and community members with equitable treatment and access to opportunities, we must first identify the blind spots and shortcomings that perpetuate institutional bias and systematic disparities for certain groups,” said Mayor Paul Brodeur. “This initiative will help us develop solutions that address these critical issues.”

Through the equity assessment, the City will be provided with data-driven findings and practical recommendations to update employment policies and make any other changes needed in order to advance diversity, equity and inclusion within the City as an employer. Additionally, the City recognizes the need to evaluate current community engagement strategies to increase equity and inclusion through all modes of communication.

Through the DEI training series, the City seeks to empower employees to recognize, respect, and value the differences that lead to innovative approaches and diverse thought and to develop skills to address problems and challenging situations, with the goal of sustaining a lasting shift in culture.

Review the Request for Proposals

To review the City's Request for Proposals for its Equity Assessment and DEI Training Series, visit www.cityofmelrose.org/sites/g/files/vyhlif3451/f/uploads/equity_assessment_and_training_series_rfp_final_01242023_2.pdf

Responses are due by February 24, 2023, at 12 p.m. Pending the selection of a qualified consultant, the equity assessment and training initiative is anticipated to start this March and be concluded within a year. For more information or questions please contact Polina Latta, Human Resources Director for the City of Melrose, who can be reached at 781-979-4146 and [email protected]. The City solicits proposals from qualified firms to perform an Equity Assessment and DEI Training Series in accordance with M.G.L. Ch. 30B.

To learn about the City of Melrose’s DEI efforts under Mayor Brodeur’s administration to date, visit www.cityofmelrose.org/mayor/pages/diversity-equity-and-inclusion