Following are some ideas to consider as you prepare to present the Declaration.
We know that each town is different and that the strategy for gaining adoption and implementation of the Declaration may be different.
1
THE GOAL
The goal is to have every town and city in Vermont adopt the Declaration of Inclusion.
2
HAVE A CONVERSATION
Speaking with those, including Select Board members, who may be reluctant, do not see a need for the statement, or even oppose the Declaration may be useful. Doing so provides an opportunity to discuss and hopefully resolve statements such as: “We don’t have those problems here,” “I am not a racist” or “Why do we need such a statement in our town?”
3
THE PATH FORWARD
There may be no doubt about the ways to implement, monitor, and assess progress on the Declaration. Turning words into action is not the easiest. Since each community is different, with different needs and different stages of socioeconomic development, we suggest follow up conversations, led by a skilled discussion leader. That person may be a respected member of the community, a professional facilitator, or a competent consultant. We can help identify those potentially interested in working with you.