The Greater Freeport Partnership prioritizes diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) in our community and in our work.

As we fulfill our commitment, we are offering resources and modeling behaviors to ensure everyone has a seat at our table. We will proactively engage with groups who are not present in our programs, working with local leaders and advocates to identify opportunities to listen and learn. We value the support, encouragement, and actionable advice to help us improve on our journey. It is our intent to remain open, to evolve, and adapt to the dialogue we receive from our partners and reflect the diverse culture of our community.

The Partnership believes when businesses recognize and embrace different perspectives, they are better able to create value, serve customers, support employees and solve problems. We do this by listening, creating measurable tools and programs, collecting data and feedback, creating safe spaces, and striving to welcome all into our communities.

The Partnership is not only a resource for business support and education, but also a conduit for community engagement. We will model an inclusive culture that reflects our community and provide resources and support for local businesses to do the same. The Partnership will promote educational and entertainment opportunities for residents and businesses to learn about the diversity of our area and its importance for growth and sustainability. We will amplify the voices of marginalized groups using our media channels and public platforms.

We aspire to support a culture that is decidedly diverse, equitable and inclusive while building truly immersive experiences for everyone. Each resident, business and visitor can be as engaged as they wish to be – knowing they belong and are always welcome. We strive to create an environment in all events and programs where people feel included, see their culture reflected, and experience the benefits of this community to support and celebrate their prosperity.

HOW:

We pledge to translate our commitment to inclusion into action by:

• Cultivating inclusive practices ensuring that diversity is not only welcomed but actively sought and valued in each of our committees and programs.
• Elevating marginalized voices by providing opportunities in our events, media outreach, and business programming for representation and participation to connect our community.
• Educating and raising awareness of educational initiatives and events that provide understanding, empathy, and awareness of the diverse backgrounds and experiences within Freeport and Stephenson County.
• Fostering equitable opportunities to ensure that everyone has fair access to resources, growth, and success.
• Regularly evaluating progress with transparent and accountable mechanisms to assess and communicate our progress towards DEIB goals, seeking feedback from the community to guide continuous improvement.
• Promoting a culture of belonging to nurture an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, recognizing that true community strength arises when each individual can bring their authentic self to the table.

We encourage the residents, businesses, and partners in Freeport & Stephenson County to engage in conversation, provide feedback, and invite the Partnership into spaces to listen and learn. The connections we make build relationships that continually reinforce our work to represent, welcome and include all.

By embracing these actions, the Greater Freeport Partnership aims to contribute to the creation of an inclusive, equitable, and vibrant community where everyone can thrive. Together, we will build a future that reflects the diversity of our community and ensures that every voice is not only heard but truly matters.