Jade Piros de Carvalho
Immediately following the publication of United WE’s Kansas Municipalities & Gender Balance Report, which looks at gender disparities on municipal boards, I used the research as evidence of the need to transform our appointments process in Hutchinson, Kansas. Despite my strong effort, this is something I had been unsuccessful at doing over the course of 9+ years on city council.
United WE’s research says increasing the number of women on boards and commissions boosts public trust and improves the lives of residents. Of course, I wanted this for my community.
In May 2022 I paused all appointments to our 10 city commissions and boards until a new process was put into place that encouraged gender parity, diversity and efficiency. The city council unanimously approved a new appointments policy in July. A few months later, I successfully appointed two women to the Planning Commission. Before the new policy was in place, we had zero!
We streamlined the process moving forward so all openings are published October 1. Residents can apply all year and their applications will be held, but a broad marketing and outreach campaign is conducted for 60 days beginning October 1. Our Human Relations Officer who handles DEI work for the community and our Director of Communication and Outreach who handles DEI internally for staff both review applications and make recommendations based on greater gender, people of color, and other historically overlooked group representation.
In November, I appointed several people to boards under the new policy and process. Staff was amazed at the number of applicants and the amount of new voices, including women and minorities, that this process brought in.
I’m really proud of this change. It will not only build our city’s leadership capacity, it will empower and rebuild trust with those who’ve felt ignored. And I truly believe we will be better off with the diversity of ideas brought to the table. The research United WE has a lasting impact when people use it to advocate for needed policy change. I appreciate you, the entire staff, and the opportunity to be a small part of your work!