Transformation at the City of Tacoma
Comprehensive Change that Fundamentally Enhances the Way We Operate as an Organization
As a community, and as a nation, we are living in historic times. One often hears that "transformation" is needed. But what does that really mean? At the City of Tacoma, when we say that, we are talking about "systemic transformation".
Systemic Transformation
For us, that means comprehensive change that fundamentally enhances and radically re-imagines the way we operate as an organization and, ultimately, the way we serve you.
Right Now, We Are Working to Analyze All Aspects of Our Organization
Where there are interlocking, interrelated moving components, we are looking at how they work independently and in conjunction with one another. Where additional information is needed, we are conducting the research necessary to obtain that information.
We Are Committed to a Data-Driven, Community-Led Process Informed by Experts
Because for true "systemic transformation" to happen we must work with our community to look at all of it, including root causes, in great detail. This will be a data-driven, community-led process that is informed by experts.
We must analyze what we stand for as an organization, and ensure that the services we provide equitably serve every member of our community, including Black community members and other community members of color.
We must evolve. It is time.
Making Change to Create an Equitable and Anti-Racist Tacoma
In June 2020, the Tacoma City Council passed Resolution 40622. This resolution formally acknowledges that the City of Tacoma’s existing systems have not adequately served the needs of everyone in our community and, in particular, have not adequately served the needs of Black community members and other community members of color.
It affirms the City of Tacoma’s commitment to improving existing systems for all community members, with the first stated priority being local policing. It also requires specific directions for the City Manager to follow.