City of Austin Moves Closer to Hiring Equity Officer

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The city of Austin, Texas (34.83% Latino population) recently introduced the candidates for the newly created position of Equity Officer for the city at a town hall event. The newly created position will head an office of two to three staff members focused on identifying disparities in current city programs and services. The office will also work with community groups to ensure equal access to these programs and services.

In order to reduce health disparities, it is critical to address inequities in programs, practices, and policies. Join our site, connect with others, and get involved.

Residents of Austin petitioned the city to create the position due to the growing number of minorities leaving the city. The increased cost of living has been a key concern for minorities in the Austin area as home and apartment rental prices have risen dramatically since 2010.

The candidates fielded questions on the decreasing black population in the city and issues facing the Latino and Asian-American communities. The city hopes to make a decision for the position within the next month or month and a half.