Overview: The San Bernardino County (SBC) Equity Element Group was formed to address systemic inequities in the county and promote inclusivity, particularly for Black residents. The group has made strides in its mission to create a more equitable future, including partnering with the County Purchasing Department and advancing equity and inclusivity within county departments. The group is expected to launch a new interactive website in the first quarter of 2025.
Alyssah Hall
The San Bernardino County (SBC) Equity Element Group’s (EEG) purpose is to identify and address systemic inequities within San Bernardino County. They focus on creating an equitable society for all residents, specifically Black residents as well as other people of color. The group aims to promote inclusivity, dismantle barriers, and uplift marginalized communities through community-centered solutions and data-driven strategies.
Not too long after the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution declaring Racism A Public Health Crisis on June 23, 2020, the SBC Equity Element Group was created. The resolution directed the County Administrative Office to create an equity group to represent the 11th element of the Countywide Vision.
“The SBC Equity Element Group is committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive San Bernardino County. By fostering collaboration, empowering communities, and driving systemic change, the group is shaping a brighter future for all,” stated SBC Equity Element Group Chair and founding member, Rev. George Lamb, in a press release.
The inaugural SBC Equity Element Group was comprised of Black community leaders, including Jordan Brown of Black Voice News, Bill Thomas of the NAACP High Desert Branch, and Tammy Martin-Ryles of the Black Chamber of Commerce.
These founding members were identified as inspirational leaders from various community organizations and were handpicked by the County Board of Supervisors.
“The SBC Equity Element Group is charged with determining where there may be racial disparities among our residents in the county, recommend campaigns and programs to address those issues, and identify initiatives that are already underway within County government or in the community that can be highlighted and supported,” explained San Bernardino County Administrative Assistant Executive Officer, Diana Alexander, in a statement.
In collaboration with the San Bernardino County Administrative office, the SBC Equity Element Group, has made strides in its mission to create a more equitable future for San Bernardino County. Their accomplishments to date include:
Partnering with the firm Equity and Results
The SBC EEG retained the firm of Equity and Results, a multiracial, collectively led learning organization rooted in advancing racial equity and liberation through institutional change.
Collaborating with County Purchasing Department
The SBC EEG is working to increase contracting opportunities for minority-owned businesses in the county’s procurement process.
Advancing Equity and Inclusivity within other County Departments
The SBC EEG collaborated with county departments to identify and correct any policies or practices that have created or could create barriers to achieving equity.
Contributing to the Countywide Vision
Representatives from the SBC EEG joined the Countywide Vision leadership team to assist with developing initiatives that promote and help fulfill the countywide vision.
A New Interactive Website
The group is expected to announce the launch of its new website in the first quarter of 2025. The website will provide a platform for community engagement, job opportunities, and business development.
“The SBC Equity Element Group has developed a logo and slogan to emphasize that ‘Equity Elevates Everyone.’ The Group’s initial efforts focused on enhancing equity for the Black community, and as we move forward, our work will encompass all people of color. The results will benefit everyone,” Rev. Lamb stated.