Immediate Release: February 24, 2022
Contact: Tara Yang, Chair: tmyang4@gmail.com
Jon Shelton, Vice Chair: sheltonj@uwgb.edu
Green Bay’s Equal Rights Commission to Host Series on Housing Inequality
(Green Bay, WI) – The Green Bay’s Equal Rights Commission formed in the fall of 2021 to address and create a more inclusive city and promote diversity, will conduct a series of hearings on housing inequality in the city. The 9-member Commission voted to launch a series of hearings beginning during Black History Month (February). These hearings will feature local experts, community stakeholders and open for residents’ participation on issues related to housing in the City of Green Bay.
“It's our responsibility as Equal Rights Commissioners to learn and listen about current issues in our city. We are fully committed to creating a city that promotes equality and protects human rights. These hearings will provide a safe space for both professionals in the housing field and those who have not previously had a platform to voice their thoughts. I am delighted to welcome everyone to join us in these 'first of its kind' public hearings.” said Chairwoman Yang
The series of public hearings kicked off on February 23, 2022, with a discussion from the ERC and community partners on inequities and accessibility to housing. The community discussions will take place through June, then the Commission will create a report and suggest recommendations to the City of Green Bay. This report will be released in the fall of 2022.
"Having high-quality, affordable housing is a right everyone in our community should share. I’m excited that this commission has decided to develop creative recommendations to ensure everyone in Green Bay can enjoy that right. We can’t wait to get to work." Said Vice Chair Shelton.
The Equal Rights Commission was created through The Equal Rights Ordinance—which mirrors and expands upon state and federal law. The Equal Rights Commission aims to make the city more inclusive and promote diversity inside and outside of City Hall. You can learn more about the commission here: https://greenbaywi.gov/1234/Equal-Rights-Commission