History
In February 1987, the Columbus Consolidated Government received complaints that disparities in hiring practices, treatment, and promotion policies existed between male and female workers.
A Committee was then appointed by Mayor Jernigan to 'identify problems, make progress reports to the Council, and finally, develop a plan of action addressing problems, and make recommendations for corrective action.'
After a thorough study the Council Committee recognized that a continuous and concerted effort must be made in order to eliminate or minimize barriers which hinder women and minorities in reaching their full potential. Women and minorities make substantial contributions to our government and community through their skills, knowledge, and talents. The reality ; however, was that many obstacles still remained, both institutional as well as attitudinal, which prevented women and minorities from exercising real choices and participating to their full extent.
To facilitate in this effort, the Committee recommended the establishment of an external 'Commission' of concerned citizens to provide input and address community issues.
This Commission was therefore charged with creating a positive climate in this community with respect to women and minorities through public relations efforts, education, and the establishment of viable goals and objectives. Under this charge the Commission became the Mayor's Commission on Unity and Diversity.