Under the new federal administration, long-standing commitments to equity and public rights are under threat. This erosion threatens to deepen racial and economic disparities, undo hard-won progress, and weaken the trust that local leaders have worked hard to build with vulnerable communities. Local governments play a critical role in countering these setbacks by protecting inclusive policies and programs, investing in underserved populations, and showing that equity remains a core value even when federal priorities change.
Today, we bring you our latest Member City spotlight showcasing Fitchburg, WI’s new Community Equity Advisory Committee. Read on to hear from Mayor Julia Arata-Fratta on how this committee will inform policy and why supporting equity locally is essential in this moment.
Can you please describe what the Community Equity Advisory Committee is and how it operates?
The Community Equity Advisory Committee will advise the Common Council on inclusive practices through an equity lens. The committee may review and give feedback on the City’s strategic plan and other plans, including those for communication, comprehensive planning, housing, parks and open space, recreation, biking, and pedestrian use. At the Mayor’s or Council’s request, the committee can also review city policies and programs to ensure they promote equity and address the community’s diverse needs, recommend strategies to improve outreach and engagement with historically underrepresented or underserved groups, and suggest tools, frameworks, or best practices to further equity and inclusion. The governing body of the Community Equity Advisory Committee will consist of one alderperson and six residents of the city. Whenever possible, members should have expertise or a strong commitment to social justice, public policy, equity, advocacy, and community engagement.
As Mayor, what were the main barriers to getting the Community Equity Advisory Committee started?
One of the main barriers was an “old town” mentality and fears that creating this committee would divide the city. I disagreed. My vision was the opposite: to bring people together by making sure all voices and perspectives are considered.
The second challenge was shifting the conversation so people could see that equity is not about division—it’s about fairness. My goal was to be intentional and apply an equity lens to every decision the city makes, from budgeting to planning to community engagement. Creating this committee was a bold step in that direction.
How have you overcome these barriers?
We are attempting to overcome systematic barriers by grounding the committee’s purpose in a clear vision of what equity means for Fitchburg. To me, equity is about ensuring all residents feel supported, valued, and empowered—where city services and infrastructure respond to the needs of our diverse communities and remain accessible to everyone.
That also means making community engagement inclusive and multilingual, so both youth and elders can fully participate in decision-making. It means applying equity frameworks across policies and programs—whether in housing, public safety, recreation, or environmental initiatives—so all communities have a voice.
Ultimately, my approach has been to show that an equitable Fitchburg is one where longtime homeowners, renters, and newcomers alike can see themselves reflected in our city’s vision and feel a true sense of belonging.
What learning lessons would you offer to other mayors looking to establish a similar committee in their community?
My advice is to stay true to what is right for your community and not be distracted by the noise or threats coming from the federal level aimed at dismantling inclusion, equity, and diversity efforts. As mayors, we are problem-solvers—we listen, we learn, and we lead. We know the needs of our residents better than anyone, and we have the responsibility and the authority to act. Most importantly, we have control over our cities and the power to ensure equitable access and opportunity for all who call our communities home.