On Friday, January 17, 2025, the City of Dallas hosted the Sixth Annual Equity Indicators Symposium at the Briscoe Livestock Carpenter Center-Fair Park. Organized by the Office of Equity and Inclusion and the Office of Environmental Quality & Sustainability, the event brought together residents, businesses, organizations, and leaders to discuss the updated Equity Indicators Report, with a focus on the newest addition—Environmental Justice.
Recently appointed Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert opened the symposium with welcoming remarks, joined by District 4 Council Member Carolyn King Arnold, Chair of the Workforce, Education, and Equity Committee, and District 10 Council Member Kathy Stewart, Chair of the Parks, Trails, and Environment Committee.
“Environmental Justice is a cornerstone of advancing equity because it ensures that every community, regardless of background or zip code, has the resources and opportunities to thrive,” said Tolbert.
The event featured a robust schedule of panels and discussions, beginning with a session titled "Closing Disparities in Public Health, Education, and the Community." Panelists addressed key public health priorities, philanthropic initiatives, and extracurricular activities supporting student success.
The second panel, "Fair Park: Honoring Legacy, Embracing Innovation, and Connecting Communities," moderated by Assistant City Manager Liz Cedillo-Pereira, focused on revitalizing Fair Park while preserving its historical and cultural significance.
A fireside chat on "Environmental Justice," led by Dr. Jalonne White-Newsome, Federal Chief Environmental Justice Officer, and moderated by Environmental Commission Chair Kathryn Guerra Bazan, was a highlight of the day. The discussion traced the history of environmental justice, outlined ongoing efforts at local and national levels, and issued a call to action for shaping its future in Dallas.
“When we talk about advancing environmental justice, it’s more than just policy but it’s policy that is informed by the wisdom of communities that are the most impacted,” said Dr. White-Newsome.
The symposium concluded with a presentation from the Dallas Youth Council Environmental Commission, urging attendees to commit to advancing equity in their respective roles.
