Greensboro residents interested in helping shape city policies affecting the LGBTQ+ community have an opportunity to apply for one of five openings on the city’s LGBTQ+ Task Force.

The City of Greensboro announced on  Monday, June 1 that applications are being accepted through Tuesday, June 30, for positions on the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer+ (LGBTQ+) Task Force, an advisory group that works with the city’s Human Rights Department on issues affecting LGBTQ+ residents.

The task force is one of several advisory groups overseen by Greensboro’s Human Rights Department that are focused on specific communities and issues.

According to the city, the LGBTQ+ Task Force was established to identify and address barriers facing lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer residents in Greensboro. This group examines city rules, policies and procedures that may create discriminatory obstacles and provides recommendations aimed at improving the quality of life for LGBTQ+ residents.

The city’s website states that the task force focuses on four primary areas: health and community wellness, legal process and policy change, housing discrimination, and youth involvement and education.

Members of the task force work to identify challenges affecting LGBTQ+ residents, provide resources related to legal and policy issues, examine housing concerns and promote youth outreach and education efforts.

The group also seeks ways to improve health and wellness within Greensboro’s LGBTQ+ community.

The task force is one of five committees, commissions and task forces administered by the Human Rights Department. Greensboro has for years relied on such advisory groups to provide input from specific communities and populations. City officials say that those groups help identify concerns, recommend policy changes and provide feedback to local government leaders and policymakers.

Residents interested in learning more about the LGBTQ+ Task Force can attend one of two recruiting fairs being held on Wednesday, June 3.

The first recruiting fair will be held from noon to 1 p.m. at the Yvonne Johnson Event Center at 1502 Barber Park Drive. A second recruiting fair is scheduled from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Griffin Community Recreation Center at 5301 Hilltop Road.

City staff will be available at both events to answer questions about the task force and to assist residents with the application process.

According to the Human Rights Department, the city’s broader mission is to promote mutual understanding, respect and fair treatment for all Greensboro residents regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability or familial status.

Residents may apply online through the city’s website or obtain additional information by contacting Human Rights Deputy Director Maria Hicks-Few at 336-373-2038.