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Cultivating and showcasing an inclusive community culture is an essential economic development strategy for attracting, retaining, and growing businesses. Why? Because the number of executives who cite inclusion as a top business priority has increased to nearly 70 percent according to Deloitte – an industry leading business audit, tax and advisory service. Deloitte goes on to state that “inclusive culture is an essential component in talent strategies which can result in increased creativity, productivity, and innovation”. This means businesses want and need a talented diverse workforce and will make location decisions based in part on such workforce availability.
Frederick is a leader in diversity and inclusion among its peer cities. During the past decade (2010-2020), Frederick’s racial and ethnic composition changed considerably. Black, Asian, and Hispanic workers now represent approximately 43% of the City population up from 36% a decade ago, and is projected to grow to 47% by 2025 (ESRI Dec 2020). February is Black History Month and Frederick recognizes the landmark achievements of the African-American community in business, arts, entrepreneurship, and government. In this issue of Business ENEWS, you can read about Rollins Funeral Home, a prominent African-American business which is investing in a new life celebration center. Frederick’s rich African American heritage is being preserved and told by Frederick AARCH which was formed in part due to the vision of the late William O Lee, Jr., a former City Aldermen and educator who was a friend and mentor to many. Organizations across the City including schools, businesses, and government are supporting this important annual celebration. Lets do our part to make Frederick the most inclusive small city in America and create jobs.
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