Nashville, TENN – On Tuesday, February 23, The Metropolitan Nashville Minority Caucus reiterated its commitment to diversity, inclusion and equity during their annual reception to celebrate Black History Month. Due to Covid-19, this year’s reception was hosted virtually and has already reached over 1000 people.
“We are working to ensure that those who have been marginalized have the opportunity to grow, contribute, and develop in this city. We will continue to build sustaining policies rather than just promoting displays of tokenism” said Councilmember at-Large and Minority Caucus Chair, Sharon Hurt.
The Minority Caucus has identified 7 KEY ISSUES as their primary areas of focus for 2021. The Caucus is committing to prioritize working on the following:
1) Increasing Affordable Housing
2) Supporting efforts of criminal justice reform
3) Addressing food deserts in Minority communities
4) Ensuring that equitable transit options exist in minority communities
5) Minority healthcare (especially ensuring equity in vaccine distribution)
6) Diversifying the Boards and Commissions that serve our city
7) Supporting Nashville General Hospital
Dr. James Hildreth was awarded the Pioneer Award in recognition of his expertise in infectious diseases, and promoting science, reason, and fighting for equity during the global pandemic. Rev. Al Sharpton, the keynote speaker, charged the audience to open the door and create equitable spaces for the next generation by not get weary in the struggle for justice. The Caucus also acknowledged the new TNDP Chair, Hendrell Remus, and shared a tribute in memory of former Councilman, Kwame Lillard.
The Maynard Group was this year’s Presenting Sponsor and Title Sponsor, Jigsaw. Other sponsors include Platinum level – the Tennessee Titans, Gold – Waller, Amazon, The Strategy Group, and Calvert Street Group, and Silver – The Don Hardin Group, Hall Strategies, and Baylor Company.
