Mission Statement
The Office of Equity and Environmental Justice (OEEJ) makes sure DPW treats everyone fairly. They help in stopping unfair problems. When DPW makes decisions, they think about how it affects people, neighborhoods, and nature. Their goal is to help everyone live in a safe and healthy place.
The Office of Equity and Environmental Justice was established as a result of Baltimore City’s Equity Ordinance (Ordinance 18-160) for the purpose of:
- Promoting equity and reducing disparities within city government.
- Eliminating structural and institutional racism and discrimination through research, education, and interventions.
- Developing an equity action plan and incorporating and embedding equity in all DPW operations, programs, services, and policies.
- Providing guidance, education, and technical assistance to DPW to enable the development of sustainable and equitable outcomes and services.
- Working with community partners and stakeholders to promote equity and inclusion within Baltimore, producing measurable improvements and disparity reductions.
- Supporting human rights and opportunities for everyone to achieve their full potential.
- Conducting equity assessments of existing and proposed policies and practices
What is Equity?
Many people think equity and equality are the same, but they are not. Equality means everyone gets the same help. Equity means people get the help they need.
For example, with equality, everyone pays for water based on how much they use. With equity, we make sure everyone can get clean water and can afford it.
Meet the Office Equity of Environmental Justice Team
Marco K. Merrick, Chief
443-202-5055
Phillip T. Gaines, EEO Officer
443-202-6199
R. Anthony Mills, Acting Chief of Water Advocacy and Customer Appeal
410-396-3310
