Canton DEI committee discusses membership openings, appointment process and possible name change

During the May 18 meeting the Canton Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee confirmed it has two open seats, heard that Angie has submitted an application and awaits select-board appointment, and welcomed the presence of Chief of Police Mark McDaniels as a representative the chair invited to the committee.

"I would love to, my honor and pleasure, welcome our chief of police, chief Mark McDaniels," the chair (S1) said while describing membership and outreach plans. Angie (S6) confirmed she submitted her application and that appointment by the select board is required.

Members also debated whether to change the committee name to include the word "Belonging." Some speakers favored adding the term to emphasize outcome-focused work; others cautioned that the established term "DEI" has a specific meaning and that any name change would need formal approval from the select board.

The group agreed to wait until the next meeting to handle reorganizing leadership roles and formal changes, and to continue recruitment efforts to fill open spots.