HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Item - 2020-11-17 - Number 7. - L. Kilbourn Comment Simpson, Anne-Marie
From: Laurie Kilbourn <coach.laurie.kilbourn@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, November 17, 2020 12:02 PM
To: CityRecorder
Subject: Today's City Council meeting
Categories: Testimony
Greetings,
I would like to be included in the audience for today's Lake Oswego City Council meeting,to be held via zoom. Please add my comments below to the record for
today's Lake Oswego City Council meeting.Thank you!
Laurie Kilbourn
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17 November 2020
First, a hearty "Thank you" to the Lake Oswego City Council for starting this journey toward a better, more equal and just future for our city. Thank you also to
the Willamette and Portland State University students, DEI Task Force members and Facilitator Bill de la Cruz for their work on the report, and to the people who
participated and gave their time, perspective and suggestions.This is an excellent place to start!
Unfortunately, as Oregon and Lake Oswego residents,we are all just a generation or two removed from overt racism, and systemic racism still exists,whether
we are able to see it or not, and whether we are able to identify our role in it or not. It wasn't until 2001 that the exclusionary language in Oregon's Constitution
was removed, and examples of racism are present, even in recent days.
Not to shame any of us, myself included, but it's time to acknowledge the hurt and inequality that has happened on our watch.This is an opportunity for city-
wide learning, individual growth and governmental responsibility. As a city, we need to be fully open and transparent, reach out to ever single person, and
outline clearly how each and every person can get involved to make our community more inclusive, equitable and diverse.Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Laurie Kilbourn
coach.laurie.kilbourn@gmail.com
6 Saint Helens Cir
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
(503) 699-7824
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