The Diversity Committee was established by the Bowie City Council in September 2003.

Purpose

When City Council established the committee, it asked the volunteer members of the committee to advise and make recommendations to the City Council on diversity issues; such as how:

• To foster a climate of mutual respect among different peoples in Bowie
• To work toward a City workforce that better reflects the diversity of the City of Bowie, and providing equal opportunities and access for people of all backgrounds in the areas of hiring, retention, development and promotion
• To improve communications, between the diverse groups and communities in Bowie and the City government and leaders, to offer broader input to City and community issues and encourage discussion of differing viewpoints to promote an understanding in a multicultural environment
• To plan events to celebrate Bowie’s diversity
• To investigate and address diversity issues that might arise.

Since 2003, committee members have become involved in these tasks as needed, developing a Hate Crimes/Bias Incident Policy for the City, reviewing and making recommendations about City hiring practices, and suggesting ways to expand opportunities for individuals and companies wanting to do business with the City.

Activities

The committee is involved in two major events each year: an event to recognize the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Bowie International Festival.

The committee organizes the Martin Luther King, Jr. Art Contest and program each year to teach Bowie youth about the life and enduring legacy of Dr. King.

On the first Saturday of October, the committee participates in Bowie's International Festival, by featuring a country at a children's activity booth and teaching about its people, its culture, and its traditions through demonstrations and a craft or other children's activity.

Interested in Getting Involved?

Please contact Committee Liaison, Lori Cunningham, if you'd like to learn more about the work of the Committee or are considering applying to become a member of the committee. If you don't want to become a member of the committee, but would be interested in volunteering to help with the Martin Luther King Program and Contest or the International Festival or any of the other activities of the committee, please contact us as well.