Fairfax County, VA is devoted to advancing gender equality and eliminating discrimination in all aspects of life. To this end, the county has created a number of organizations and initiatives to address issues related to workplace equality and discrimination. These organizations and initiatives are led by passionate individuals who are committed to creating a more equitable society for all. The Fairfax County Region I Area Resource Team is one such organization.
This team works to prevent domestic violence and coordinate services with local government agencies, the court system, area nonprofit organizations, and local businesses. The team is headed by Mattie Palmore, who has been an advocate for homeless housing and assistance for people with physical and mental disabilities, and on behalf of Fairfax County's youth and seniors for over 30 years. In addition to the Area Resource Team, Fairfax County also has a Women's Commission. This commission advises the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on policies and initiatives to promote gender equality, eliminate violence against women, and honor the county's women and girls.
The commission is chaired by Phylicia Tautges, who is passionate about expanding the commission's work, partnering with other organizations, and deepening its impact across the county. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against in the workplace can file a complaint with Fairfax County. To do so, they must complete an online questionnaire. The county expects the prompt resolution of complaints filed by individuals alleging discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status or disability in the provision of county services, activities, programs or benefits. In addition to filing a complaint with the county, individuals can also contact other LGBTQIA+ organizations in Fairfax and Prince William counties or activists across the state for more information on employment discrimination. Sabrina Palmore is one such activist who serves on the board of directors of Hollins University and Black Women in Asset Management.
She works to support women candidates who defend women's issues as well as local and national candidates who include sustainability and climate in their platforms. Lanita Thweatt is another activist who volunteers for Virginia Democracy Forward and serves on the Community Action Advisory Board, Human Services Council and Policy Team for Successful Children and Youth. Through her work she has established connections with stakeholders from various organizations and agencies as well as partners from the Federal Reserve System. Finally, Jordan Tautges was honored to be named a member of the Fairfax County Women's Commission by Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity. She believes that both her professional role as a sustainability manager and her volunteer roles at the ERG are essential to supporting and educating women and girls. She looks forward to continuing to serve Fairfax County residents in both their professional and personal lives.
