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I have always been committed to tackling the challenges facing Milwaukee County, investing in sustainable programs and infrastructure that empower people to live better lives, and continuing to build the foundation for a stronger, healthier community.
Milwaukee County’s new Office on African American Affairs has the ambitious mission of recognizing and resolving the County’s racial inequities for the benefit of all of its citizenry and for the region to achieve its full potential. I am deeply committed to this mission and have made it the top priority of my second full term as County Executive. I fully expect and hope to be held accountable for improving outcomes in a tangible and measurable way.
In 2016, we began the work by building the foundation necessary to pursue long-term meaningful and measurable improvements to Milwaukee racial inequities. We did this by engaging the community and listening. We learned that the community wants us to focus on: building a comprehensive approach to workforce development in Milwaukee County, expanding entrepreneurship in the African American community, and laying the groundwork for meaningful criminal justice reform. This is what we plan to do. To learn more about the work we’re doing, visit the OAAA website and read the annual report.
In 2017, the Office will build on that foundation and move full speed ahead with a full-time staff dedicated to improving racial issues in Milwaukee County. Milwaukee County is actively recruiting a leader to serve as OAAA Director who will provide strategic leadership for all aspects of the Office. We are looking for disciplined, accountable, performance-minded individuals who have a proven track record of getting things done. The Director will also lead the implementation of coordinated plans in areas that include workforce development, criminal justice, and other strategic areas.
I am not looking to “check a box” with this hire. I am looking for a unique candidate that can unify the community, navigate internal and external politics, manage complex projects, and maintain a steadfast focus on producing quality outcomes. I look forward to working side-by-side with a candidate who is not concerned with appearances and flash, but is dedicated solely to bringing meaningful, actionable progress to Milwaukee.
While we have searched nationally for a Director, I know that the ideal candidate will understand Milwaukee and its unique history, assets, and challenges. If you think you have what it takes to lead an ambitious effort to meaningfully address Milwaukee racial inequities once and for all, I encourage you to apply at county.milwaukee.gov/careers.
Sincerely,
Chris Abele
To stay updated on the work of the Office on African American Affairs, you can sign up to receive updates. You can also visit our website or contact us at AfricanAmericanAffairs@milwaukeecountywi.gov.
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