1. If you previously or currently serve in a public office, what did you accomplish in that capacity related to furthering inclusion and equity?

N/A

2. What have you done or do you do in your personal and/or professional life to further inclusion and equity?

As a newspaper editor, I try to make sure my paper covers individuals from diverse economic and social backgrounds in the communities we cover (Troy, Marine, St. Jacob, Maryville, Glen Carbon, Collinsville, and Highland). As an individual, I spend time talking with and sharing experiences with people from a variety of backgrounds.

3. Do you think the Ninian Edwards statue should remain in City Plaza? Why or why not?

I think the statue should stay where it is until a city cultural history museum can be developed by a nonprofit (without taxpayer money) that also contains such historical items from around town as the Pogue Store wall and the public safety building mural (or a print/replica).

4. Do you support the City of Edwardsville utilizing affirmative action policies in employment and contracting? Why or why not?

Edwardsville does not currently use affirmative action. Because it is impossible to know a candidate’s religious, gender identification, racial make-up, or non-visible disability without asking (protected classes under the Americans with Disabilities Act), affirmative action should not be implemented.

5. If elected/re-elected, what would you do to foster inclusion and equity in Edwardsville?

If elected as Mayor of Edwardsville, I will appoint a Director of Cultural Development. This person will serve as a liaison to nonprofits and community groups working with diverse populations and help coordinate events for residents, such as job fairs, cultural arts festivals and other programs. Unlike the standing committee currently proposed with a new hire director and appointed members, this would be a lateral position change working with committees already in the community, not one or two representatives from each minority community.