At the Massachusetts Women of Color Coalition, Celia Johnston Blue pushes hard on the city and state levels to get better representation of women – and particularly women of color – in high-level government and business positions, in order to be more reflective of the communities they serve.
This advocacy includes calling for a state law requiring better diversity on public boards and commissions. In the wake of George Floyd’s murder by Minneapolis police last year, business and government officials of all races are paying more attention to institutional racism, and advocates like Johnston Blue help ensure this can result in meaningful change.
Her latest effort with the MAWOCC includes a partnership with the Mass. Office of the Treasurer on a yearlong webinar the 2021 EqualPayMA Roundtable Series, focusing increasing pay for women in the workplace.
What do you think the future holds for Central Mass.? “Here is what I’d like to see: A vibrant city where the playing field is leveled, more women of color, BIPOC are reflected in the city’s workforce and City Hall in leadership positions, thriving WOC, BIPOC businesses. Increased percentage of procurement are awarded to WOC, BIPOC businesses, the makeup of City Council, and School Committee to reflect the diversity of our community, police/criminal justice reform, which means fundamental changes in how we are doing business in the city.”
Movie buff: “I like romantic movies.”
