We develop leaders, organizations, and partnerships with clients who are working toward a more just world.

Hi there,

It will come as no surprise that it has been difficult to work on equity initiatives in government this spring and summer. It has demanded persistence, adaptability, and reflection. Here are some things we’ve learned:

• Return to foundational commitments. Many agencies have adopted equity goals in recent years. They are still valid. Pointing back to these decisions reinforces the legitimacy of equity work.

• Focus on values, not language. Some agencies are shifting away from words like “equity” and using terms such as “community considerations” or “opportunities for all.” The important thing is preserving the values behind the language.

• Keep communities at the center. High-quality community engagement with those most impacted by a government decision not only leads to better services and programs, but also more equitable outcomes.

Most of all, we are heartened by the continued commitment to communities that we see among public servants. We’ll continue to support these herocrats in their work.

Allison

What We’re Reading

This month’s reads explore how public servants can advance equity and inclusion in the face of skepticism or resistance.

State of the Field: A Snapshot of Racial Equity in Government

• The Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE) recently released a report that draws of survey and interview data from over 150 government staff on the state of racial equity in government. Ultimately, the results share a hopeful outlook for the future. Government practitioners leading equity are meeting the moment with determination, creativity and wisdom.

I Could Do That: What Abstract Art and Running a City Have in Common

• This article from ELGL makes the connection that government is a lot like abstract art. Critics think “How hard can it be? I could do better than that!”, but both disciplines rely on creativity, inclusion, and the courage to challenge conventions to be effective and meaningful.

Shift Terms, Not Values

• Spitfire Strategies created a guide to defend DEI initiatives with strategic messages and language that resonate with conservative audiences. Although this guide is for higher education, the strategies are applicable across many sectors, including the public sector.

Opportunities to Learn + Lead

Code for America and the Beeck Center for Social Impact + Innovation are holding FormFest 2025 on September 30. FormFest is a free virtual event about best practices to make forms and services more accessible for all. Learn more and register online.

The 2025 International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Annual Conference will be held in Tampa, Florida from October 25-29. Network with local government professionals and participate in sessions on leadership and innovative ideas. Register online by Sept. 17 for a discounted rate.

Jobs for Herocrats

GroundBreak Coalition in the Twin Cities is hiring for multiple positions. GroundBreak is a philanthropic foundation that works to close the racial wealth gap in the region. Learn more about the positions and how to apply online.

The City of San José is hiring a Senior Public Information Representative in their Housing Department to communicate about the City’s efforts to address homelessness, affordable housing, and fair housing. Applications are due September 3. More details are available online.

Give a Herocrat the Spotlight

Know a state or local government employee who’s building relationships and making an impact in their community? Nominate them to be highlighted on our website, newsletter, and social media!

We’re working on new Herocrats Spotlights for the fall, but in the meantime, check out Zafar Siddiqui’s story if you missed it earlier this year.

Zafar is the Solutions Development Manager at Minnesota Housing and co-founder of the nonprofit Islamic Resource Group. His cross-sector experience has shaped his belief that good leadership begins with respect, civility, and connection. Read his story!