Diversity & Inclusion
The Township of Berkeley Heights is always working to become a more inclusive and welcoming community for all. By strengthening key relationships in our community - such as with the Berkeley Heights Diversity Council, Berkeley Heights (Summit Area) YMCA, Berkeley Heights Board of Education, religious leaders of all faiths, school groups focused on acceptance and inclusion, and others - we aim to not only open the lines of communication on issues of diversity and inclusion, but to foster an atmosphere that encourages dialogue, education and awareness of people from various ethnic and religious backgrounds and sexual orientation.
Truth, Community Health & Inclusion Committee
Originally created in 2020, the Truth, Community Health & Inclusion Committee's goal is to assemble government, education and community leaders to create a safe platform for residents, stakeholders and community groups on issues of diversity and inclusion. The committee aims to engage in various activities to raise awareness, and foster coordination so that Berkeley Heights becomes a more inclusive and welcoming place for all.
Flag Raising Ceremonies
Beginning in 2022, the Township began a series of flag raising, recognizing various cultures and the ethnic heritage of Berkeley Heights residents. The flag raisings have been accompanied by dancers, musicians, food and more - all to celebrate the diversity of our community. Some of these flag raisings have included: Black History Month, St. Patrick's Day, Pride Month, Portugal Day, Ukrainian flag raising and Italian flag raising to coincide with the annual Mt. Carmel Feast tradition here in Berkeley Heights.
Lunar New Year Celebration 2022
This year's Lunar New Year celebration was once again held via Zoom, due to the ongoing COVID19 pandemic. Held on February 6 and co-hosted by residents Angus Chen and Linda Meehan, and the event featured many familiar faces from the township, including Mayor Angie Devanney, Damian Facey, Sue Seto, Qing Li, Tiffany Escott, and Natalie Chin, just to name a few. More than 115 devices logged on to the Zoom event and each screen seemed to have at least two people watching, and some even more.
Black History Month Flag Raising 2022
On February 5, 2022, the Township was proud to host the First Annual Black History Month flag raising. Mayor Devanney MC’ed the event and invited speakers from the Township Council, Truth Community Healing & Inclusion Committee, Berkeley Heights Diversity Council, YMCA and faith community. The flag was raised by long-time resident Frank Bolden.
Township Hiring Practices
The Township of Berkeley Heights strives to increase the diversity of its municipal staff with each and every hire. It is the policy of the Township to provide equal opportunity with regard to all terms and conditions of employment. The Township complies with federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic.
Bias Crime
Hate has no home in Berkeley Heights. The Township of Berkeley Heights and the Berkeley Heights Police Department takes bias crime in our community very seriously. If you believe you have been a victim of bias crime, please contact the BHPD at (908) 464-1111.
Below are other helpful links to resources relating to bias and what to do if you think have you been a victim of a bias crime.
Important Numbers
- NJ Attorney General’s Bias Crime Initiative 1-800-277-BIAS (2427)
- Union County Human Relations Commission 908-889-6359
- Union County Prosecutor's Office 908-527-4500