Newton, Massachusetts has a new LGBTQ+ liaison after the previous person in that role, Holly Ryan, made history becoming the city’s first openly transgender woman elected to serve on the city council back in November.
Newton’s new LGBTQ+ liaison is Hattie Kerwin Derrick, who also serves as the city’s director of community engagement and inclusion. Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller this week expanded Derrick’s responsibilities to cover both positions.
Reports Patch Newton:
As LGBTQ+ Liaison, Derrick will expand her work as Director of Community Engagement and Inclusion, a position created by Fuller when she was appointed. Derrick is responsible for bolstering civic and community engagement and giving voice to residents, communities, and groups across Newton.
“In this capacity, Hattie will be the “go to” person for residents as well as serve as the point person with our Police, Schools, City departments, businesses and non-profits, said Fuller in a community update.
Derrick will remain available to everyone while trying to reach out to traditionally underrepresented people including ethnic and religious minorities and people with disabilities.
“I am committed to ensuring we work collaboratively to institutionalize equity and social justice, reinforce inclusion, affirm diverse identities and experiences, support victims of hate and bias, foster respect among all of us and celebrate differences as this is essential to our shared goal of being a welcoming community where everyone can thrive for all,” said Fuller.
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