Name: Equity Advocate: The Springfield Community Relations Department
Start: 2026-03-27T08:00:00-05:00
End: 2026-03-27T09:00:00-05:00
Location: Hoogland Center for the Arts

Equity Advocate: The Springfield Community Relations Department

Join us for a conversation with Ethan Posey, director of the city of Springfield's community relations department. Posey will discuss new initiatives and ongoing work of his agency, which is designed to ensure city residents fair treatment and address concerns related to discrimination, civil rights and quality of life. Landlord-tenant issues, investigating complaints related to employment discrimination and support for the homeless are among department tasks. The office also oversees the Community Outreach Team.
Posey has spearheaded efforts to improve the quality of life in underserved areas, to help spur homeownership through rehabilitation of dilapidated properties on the east side, and to provide training and resources to minority business owners and nonprofit leaders. And he is the city liaison to the disabilities commission and the police community review commission.
Retired SJ-R journalist Bernie Schoenburg will be the moderator. Doors open at 7:30 a.m. for coffee and networking. The event is free and open to the public.