Building peer-to-peer relationships based on subject area expertise helps to expand the field of practice, share success, and problem solve challenges. When becoming a GARE member, jurisdictions complete a directory of key point people by topic, e.g., workforce equity, contracting equity, policing, libraries, equitable development, etc. Members identify priority subject area to explore opportunities or challenges, and staff support is assigned based on these priorities.
Results of subject area organizing can include:
- Production of an issue paper that describes the racial inequities in the given topic area and recommends best, smart, and promising practices.
- Development of a shared action agenda, including goals, strategies and next steps.
- Problem solving and strategizing on challenging situations.
Subject matter groups should include individuals that have knowledge or expertise in the area, as well as individuals who provide fresh perspectives, or who can take the discussion in new and innovative directions. Wherever possible, groups should include a mix of jurisdictions. Work products will be received by the Steering Committee for dissemination to the full membership.
A sample of some working groups that have been active at various points.
- Arts & Culture
- Communications
- Criminal Justice
- Equitable Development
- Evaluation
- Libraries
- Parks & Recreation
- Public Health
- Racial Equity CEOs
- Rapid Response
- Sustainability
- Transportation
Employees of GARE Member jurisdictions should log-in to the GARE Network portal and see which groups are currently active, or find out more on how to form or reactivate working groups. Sign up for the GARE Network portal here with your government-issued email address. Please allow for at least 1-2 business days for approvals to happen.