Dear Residents,

As members of our vibrant and diverse community, we are bound together by a shared sense of belonging and mutual respect. Our neighborhood thrives on the principles of inclusivity, understanding, and fairness. It is imperative that we uphold these values in all facets of our interactions, including our relationships with our fellow neighbors.

Recently, there has been a growing concern regarding the fair treatment of all residents within our community. While we pride ourselves on being an inclusive neighborhood, it has come to our attention that there may be instances where biases, whether conscious or unconscious, have influenced interactions between neighbors. Specifically, the CWCA Board has received complaints of concerning behavior by some of the residents within our community.

As residents, it is our responsibility to ensure that all members of our community feel safe, respected, and valued. Discrimination of any form, including racial bias, has no place within our neighborhood. Every one of our neighbors deserves to be treated with dignity and fairness, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, or any other characteristic.

Treating our neighbors equally goes beyond mere words; it requires intentional actions and a commitment to examining our own biases. Here are some practical steps that each of us can take to promote equality and combat racial bias:

• Lead by Example: Set an example for others by demonstrating inclusive behavior and advocating for equality in all aspects of community life. Be mindful of our own actions and attitudes, striving to create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

1. Example: Go out of your way to greet a neighbor when encountered during daily activities and make them feel welcome and included.

• Education and Awareness: Take the initiative to educate ourselves about the impact of racial bias and ways to recognize and address it effectively. Examples may include:

1. “Biased: Uncovering the Hidden Prejudice That Shapes What We See, Think, and Do” by Jennifer L. Eberhardt: This book explores the science of unconscious bias and its impact on society.
2. “Code Switch” (NPR): This podcast explores race, ethnicity, and culture in the United States and covers various topics related to racial bias.

• Open Dialogue: Initiate open and honest conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion within our community. Create opportunities for neighbors to share their experiences and perspectives, fostering understanding and empathy among residents.

• Zero-Tolerance Policy: Adopt a personal zero-tolerance policy against any form of discrimination within our interactions with neighbors. Speak out against discriminatory behavior when we witness it and hold ourselves and others accountable for promoting a culture of respect and inclusivity.

Remember, fostering a culture of equality and inclusion is a collective effort that begins with each and every one of us. By taking proactive steps to combat racial bias and treat our neighbors with the respect and dignity they deserve, we can create a stronger, more cohesive community for generations to come.

Let us reaffirm our commitment to treating all neighbors equally and fostering a community where diversity is celebrated and valued. Together, we can build a neighborhood where everyone feels at home.

Sincerely,

Dale Johnson

CWCA President

Toddlers Choice:
1) 4827 Ponderosa 
2) 8604 QEB
3) 5003 Chanticleer 
Honorable mention 4905 Chanticleer

The Ralphie/Creative Awards:
1) 4814 Hercules 
2) 4914 Chanticleer
3) 8526 QEB
HM 5000 King Richard

It’s A Wonderful Life/Traditional:
1) 8415 QEB
2) 5001 Chanticleer
3) 4811 Woodland Way
HM 4916 King Richard

Clark Griswold/Lighting
1) 5001 Woodland Way
2) 8714 QEB
3) 5014 Woodland Way

Buddy Elf/ Best All Around Award!!
1) 4934 Andrea Ave
2) 5025 Fleming Way
3) 8509 Canterbury Dr
HM 8601 QEB

Please read entire post as I’m asking for CW resident feedback.

I’m not sure how many of our community were able to attend the multimodal project online meeting the other night, but you can listen to the meeting and review the documents/provide feedback at:

• Online, via the questionnaire: At virginiadot.org/BraddockMultimodal (click on the link that says “Nov. 29 Virtual Public Information Meeting Info”) • Via Email: Meetingcomments@vdot.virginia.gov (please reference “Braddock Road Multimodal Improvements” in the subject line) • By Mail: Mr. W. Calvin Britt, Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030

I want to capture Canterbury Woods residents main concerns to compile a unified response for CW and to also work with other civic associations for a more impactful response to our District Supervisor, legislators, and senators. Please send your concerns to any of the CWCA board members.

The latest version of the CW Gazette was delivered to CW residents last week so you should have received it in the mail. However, there was an error by the printer and the last page was printed incorrectly. I’m attaching a corrected version of the gazette here in .pdf version.