- By promoting the Declaration publicly, it then becomes a message that our town welcomes all people, and we thrive when we have a diverse population.
- We want our cities and towns (and our state) to grow in a healthy way, to increase our tax base, and to fund our schools and roads. To make this happen we need to welcome all people. Currently our population is static or declining with low fertility rates and young people leaving the state and the remaining population is aging.
- ·The United States is the most inclusive country on earth and the most successful by almost any measure. It is no coincidence that Chittenden County has the most dynamic economy in Vermont, as well as the most inclusive population. Inclusion brings creativity that leads to solutions and a richer life for all.
- A July 2022 CNBC survey of the 50 states rated Vermont as the top place to live. It noted that Vermont’s lack of inclusiveness was its short coming.
- By encouraging and promoting inclusion in our towns, schools, public and daily lives, we can prepare our children to comfortably thrive in a community of people of all cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs.
- With a more vibrant economy, more of our young people will want to stay, work, and raise families in Vermont. More people will consider moving to our town to take jobs or to work remotely.
- A Declaration of Inclusion is another tool in the “toolbox” for those responsible for our town’s economic development in attracting people would locate a business here, perhaps choosing our town (and state) over another.
- A Declaration such as this would show that the town and its leaders are forward-thinking, stepping out in front for what we know is right and which is deeply rooted in the values that American and Vermont champion.
Add your own thoughts to these reasons and end by urging Adoption of the Declaration of Inclusion and making it an integral part of the guiding principles of your town.