Vermont Business Magazine For the fifth consecutive year, Governor Phil Scott has issued an official proclamation recognizing the second week of May as Inclusion Week in Vermont. First proclaimed in 2021, Inclusion Week continues to affirm the state’s commitment to welcoming individuals of all backgrounds, traditions, and abilities to live, work, and raise families in Vermont.
The Vermont Declaration of Inclusion Initiative applauds the governor’s action and his ongoing commitment to inclusion, especially at a time of national uncertainty.
“We think a Proclamation and the (Vermont) Declaration of Inclusion are exactly the message we should be sending right now,” said Al Wakefield, a founder of the Vermont Declaration of Inclusion Initiative. “That is, Vermont is welcoming to everyone. And we want people and businesses that are considering moving here to be aware of it.”
To date, 163 municipalities across Vermont — representing 80% of the state’s population — have adopted the Declaration of Inclusion, a grassroots initiative that affirms local commitment to inclusion. The initiative encourages communities to be proactive in fostering inclusive practices in policy, governance, and public engagement.
Looking ahead, the focus will shift toward encouraging the remaining 84 towns to adopt the Declaration and to support all towns in transforming their commitments into action. The Declaration of Inclusion team will continue surveying municipalities to identify and share best practices for meaningful implementation.
The Declaration of Inclusion Initiative has been ably assisted by the Vermont Interfaith Action, Vermont Chamber of Commerce, Vermont League of Cities and Towns, and the Vermont Council on Rural Development. Additional information on the Vermont Declaration of Inclusion may be found at vtdeclarationofinclusion.org. This website is generously furnished by and maintained by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce.
Rutland, VT — 5.14.2025.
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