positive for and die from COVID-19 than Whites . At the same time , Americans across a wide range of racial and ethnic backgrounds peacefully protested the deaths of George Floyd , Breonna Taylor , Ahmaud Arbery and others during hot summer days . At night , however , many of us sat on pins and needles praying that escalating tensions between protestors and police would not turn violent . They often did .
All of these events — as well as many others — impacted life on the ground right here in Arlington . Our City Council passed several resolutions affirming its “ commitment to equity for its residents of all racial , ethnic , and national origins ,” ii and recognized racial and ethnic disparities in COVID-19 here in our City . iii The Arlington Police Department also updated its “ Use of Force ” policy and established community dialogues on policing , while the Arlington Ministerial Alliance organized a peaceful march that met at City Hall and was supported by hundreds of Black , White , Asian , and Latino residents . Elected officials , civil servants , clergy , and civic leaders across a variety of local groups banded together in an effort to re-establish a sense of harmony and normality . There was also a groundswell of support for understanding the depth , breadth , and consequences of racial and ethnic disparities . Mayor Williams and City Council harnessed this energy on June 23rd by passing a resolution that established the Unity Council .
And so it began , and it is now concluding in late February 2021 . This final report focuses on five areas of study : Economic Disparities ; Education and Workforce Training ; Housing ; Health and Wellness ; Policing and Criminal Justice . We examined each of these topics in multiple ways including : ( 1 ) statistical analyses of various data sources including the US Census and the Arlington City Satisfaction Survey ; ( 2 ) thirty one-on-one , in-depth interviews with local residents ; and ( 3 ) fifteen focus groups that addressed various aspects of diversity including race , ethnicity , religion , sexuality , disability , and youth . Results published within this report speak for themselves , through both the language of ( simple ) math and direct quotes from everyday people . Please note that some of these quotes are positive and uplifting , while others may be painful to read . For this report to be taken seriously — and received by folks who feel they been overlooked and left
( Continued on the next page .) Photo credit : Stephanie Swan
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