History

In 1995, the Hampton City Council appointed a group of citizens to look at the diversity issues within the city.

Two years and several studies later, this group, called the Citizens' Unity Commission I, recommended that the city establish an ongoing community based advisory group to carry this group's diversity work forward.

As a result, the current Citizens' Unity Commission was created and charged with identifying diversity issues and facilitating positive interaction among citizens.

The Citizens' Unity Commission consists of two groups appointed by Hampton City Council. The "proactive component" is a 20 member commission responsible for providing diverse programs and services to the community. The "reactive component" is a 17-member group providing Hampton citizens with credible leaders to review incidents that threaten Hampton's racial and cultural harmony. Both components consist of citizens who reflect the racial and cultural diversity in Hampton.

We have learned that the best way to address racial and cultural issues is through citizen's involvement. Therefore, the Citizens' Unity Commission develops opportunities for citizens to interact and explore their similarities AND differences through dialogue and experiences.

We rely on the time, talents and skills of a broad base of community volunteers to help us improve the racial and cultural climate of our city.