Racial Equity and Inclusion
A vast and growing body of research consistently shows that racism has the potential to create negative health outcomes for people in our community. A complex and interrelated set of individual, provider, health system, economic, societal, and environmental factors contribute to racial disparities in health. When these factors are distributed in unfair and unjust ways due to structural racism, they contribute to systemic racial and ethnic disparities in health and economic opportunity.
In February 2020, United Community Services of Johnson County established its Racial Equity and Inclusion (REI) Committee to determine how UCS will engage in the work of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. Members of the committee were intentionally recruited because of their professional expertise. Utilizing a 6-month process and a planning framework called “Moving from Purpose to Practice”, the committee identified five strategic practices that will enable UCS to achieve its purpose of integrating diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging into the core work of UCS. These practices are encapsulated in the UCS REI Theory of Action.
Key components of this Theory of Action include the principles and participants. By adhering to these principles and structuring participation to include as many relevant voices as possible, we hope our work will be relevant, resilient, and enduring over time.
In November 2024, UCS brought on its first full-time staff person to instill its commitment to this work. In 2025, UCS will embark on a journey of updating its REI Theory of Action and continuously working towards its mission and vision of ensuring that everyone can reach their full potential.
Racial Equity in Communities
The Racial Equity in Communities (REIC) program supports Johnson County local governments and communities in moving beyond symbolic awareness of racial equity toward substantive analysis, action, and accountability. The goal of REIC is to support the implementation of culturally-responsive systems change in Johnson County jurisdictions that want to move beyond a symbolic awareness of racial equity towards substantive analysis, action, and accountability. REIC supports jurisdictions' capacity to (a) learn—define key REI terms and concepts, (b) respond—address residents' needs/call for action related to REI, and (c) govern—shape and adopt a policymaking framework that centers racial equity.
First launched as a pilot in 2021, REIC has worked with seven Johnson County, KS jurisdictions across two cohorts.
Learn more:
Racial Equity Roundtables
The Race Equity Roundtables are a quarterly convening of REIC Alumni, Working Professionals, and Community Members who would like to increase their knowledge around topics related to equity and/or race. Sessions are usually 1.5 to 2 hours depending on topic and presenter. Registration is encouraged.
2025 Session Topics and Dates to be announced soon!
If you have questions or want to learn more about our Race Equity and Inclusion work or programming, email Rachel Russell, Director of Equity and Community Engagement, at rachelr@ucsjoco.org.