Creating a Culture of Racial Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
We lead with race explicitly, not exclusively, because "as local and regional government deepens its ability to eliminate racial inequity, it will be better equipped to transform systems and institutions impacting other marginalized groups" (GARE). Valley Water is committed to advancing racial equity, diversity and inclusion (REDI) and belonging within Valley Water and the communities we serve. REDI aims to improve not only the diversity representation of our workforce, inclusion of our work environment, and equitable access for all employees but diversity and inclusion in the greater community and equity outcomes and impacts of our work in the community.
Advancing Racial Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Efforts
In Summer of 2020, under the direction of newly appointed CEO, Rick Callender, and the support of the Board of Directors, Valley Water established the Office of Racial Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (REDI), a clear signal of the organization’s commitment to fostering, promoting and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and intent to actively work towards dismantling systemic inequities.
Current Priorities:
- Development of a comprehensive DEI Strategic Master Plan and Equity Action Plans to address structural and institutional policies, practices and norms that may knowingly or unknowingly perpetuate inequities.
- Guide agency alignment with and integration of environmental justice practices in all Valley Water projects, products and activities to ensure equitable distribution of benefits and meaningful engagements of impacted communities in the decision-making process.
- Intentional engagement and consultation with tribal communities to foster partnerships and collaboration in the protection of ancestral lands and cultural resources.
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| REDI Office Fact Sheet | 488.89 KB |
| Resolution on Addressing Systemic Racism and Promoting Equity | 1.28 MB |
| Board Ends Policies | 185.42 KB |
Partnering with employees to build an inclusive workforce
Valley Water is deeply invested in hiring, retaining and advancing a workforce that represents the rich diversity of the Santa Clara County community. To help build community within and among our diverse workforce, Valley Water supports Employee Resource Groups (ERG) as a critical part of our workplace DEI strategy.
ERGs are employee-led groups that unite under a shared vision to enhance awareness and create opportunities for people of a common identity, particular life stage or similar professional aspirations.
Membership to chartered Valley Water ERGs is free and open to all regular employees.
Current ERGs include:
Contact Us
Questions about the REDI Program? Email [email protected]