We’ve never given our Villager of the Year recognition to a group as large as River Forest’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion ad hoc committee. But its 43 members dwarf the 16 locals we recognized a year ago as critical helpers in what was then the height of the COVID pandemic.
We have watched with interest, respect and, yes, some surprise as River Forest has sincerely begun in recent years to think about, talk about, and, most critically, listen to voices of diversity in the village while also engaging with its neighbors in Maywood, a historically Black community.
Equity efforts at the District 90 public schools have been impressive and sometimes necessarily uncomfortable. The ongoing work of the DEI committee will also bring discomfort along with many opportunities.
Our thanks to the DEI Committee and to all of the River Forest village leadership for its efforts.
