Race, Equality, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee – (REEI)

The Race, Equality, Equity, and Inclusion (REEI) Advisory Committee serves as a vital resource for the City of Sanford. Its mission is to advise the City Commission and staff on strategies to promote diversity, inclusion, and racial equity within the community. The committee focuses on initiatives that highlight the importance of the Black Lives Matter movement, denounce hate and social injustice, celebrate cultural diversity, and foster inclusion for all residents.

Sanford, like many cities across the nation, continues to address systemic issues of racism, equity, and inclusion. The committee recognizes the urgency of building trust between law enforcement, government, and communities of color to prevent the division and unrest experienced elsewhere.

In light of nationwide protests against police brutality and systemic racism, the REEI Advisory Committee is committed to taking proactive measures to combat prejudice and discrimination. These efforts prioritize racial equity, justice, and community unity, ensuring Sanford remains a place where diversity is celebrated and all voices are heard.

Through collaborative events, meaningful dialogue, and actionable strategies, the REEI Advisory Committee strives to create a more inclusive and equitable future for the City of Sanford.

Sanford Speaks

The City of Sanford is committed to fostering an inclusive and accepting community, recognizing that our diversity is our greatest strength. Building on the national initiative to create more equitable communities, we invite you to join our annual community dialogues, Sanford Speaks. These sessions provide a safe and open space for participants to share concerns, needs, and visions for the future, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Check back soon for upcoming dates!

Registration Links

REEI Committee Members

  • Dr. Velma Williams
  • Michael Foster 
  • Dr. Patrice Anderson
  • Kenneth Bentley
  • Turner Clayton
  • Barbara Coleman-Foster – Co-Chair
  • Tony Hernandez – Co-Chair
  • Tamara Johnson
  • Anwar Syed
  • Dr. Kimberly Waters
  • Venise White
  • Officer Michael Hernandez
  • Sylvia Wimberly
  • Dr. Robin Dehlinger

Read the Report!

The 2024 Report from the Race, Equality, Equity and Inclusion Committee has been completed. This report contains the results of the Sanford Speaks Community Dialogue Events and associated data.

City of Sanford, FL | The Friendly City

The City of Sanford phone system is currently experiencing a technical issue and is unable to receive inbound calls or make outbound calls. There is no estimated time for resolution at this moment. We appreciate your patience and will update you as soon as the issue is resolved. The City of Sanford email system is working.

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