National Convening Program Books 2016 YEO National Convening Program Book | Page 6

From the Staff
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

INCLUSION

The Young Elected Officials
Network is committed to
supporting YEOs in bringing
freedom, fairness, and
opportunity to their communities.
We are also doing our part to
create a more conscientious,
socially responsible, and greener
National Convening.

The YEO Network is committed
to creating a sense of community
and a safe and positive space for
all of our members and guests.
We each come to the table with
personal stories, perspectives,
and privileges, and sometimes
what we say and do can offend
others or make them feel
uncomfortable.

The W Hotel City Center lies at
the heart of the Loop, a walkable
neighborhood convenient to CTA
public transit—the best way to get
around town and to both O’Hare
and Midway airports. The W
seeks to lessen its environmental
impact by using high-efficiency
lighting and water-conserving
fixtures, eliminating Styrofoam
packaging, and working with
environmentally-friendly suppliers.
We encourage attendees and
partners to minimize their water
consumption and carbon footprint
during our Convening and beyond.
We ask that YEOs take steps to
decrease shower times, reuse hotel
linens, and use reusable water
bottles when possible. Thank you
for your efforts to ensure a more
sustainable future, both here in
Chicago and in your work at home.

In line with this vision, we
encourage everyone to act
courageously and openly, with
respect for others’ experiences.
We encourage you to be inclusive
in communicating with partners
and other attendees, and to always
challenge your own assumptions
by listening with an open mind.
We are also dedicated to providing
a harassment-free conference
experience for everyone, regardless
of gender, gender identity and
expression, sexual orientation,
disability, physical appearance,
race, or religion. By convening
with open minds and hearts, we
hope to create better opportunities
for all.

PHOTO: JEFF T URNER

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