2003_Human Rights Comm Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Improving and Increasing Education and Outreach - Phil Crump reported that he has not had any luck working with Hollywood Video. Thelma suggested that we instead approach the public library about sponsoring forums, getting speakers and promoting books. The Friends of the Library have been hosting Saturday movies, and the Commission could work with them on the movies they show and encouraging them to show movies that reflect themes. For example, during February show movies to honor Black History Month or during March show movies honoring Women's History Month. Phil and Karen will contact the library before the next meeting. Karen Vnuk reported that one of her coworkers presented Martin Luther King's speech to employees at her office. She praised her coworker and the impact he had on employees. Karen suggested that the Commission hire him to do a presentation at the Library on other venues next February to commemorate King's birthday. Karen also reported that she is working with the Roseville Area Schools Diversity Committee. Director Johanna Eager is looking for help to recruit members of various ethnic groups to get involved in the Diversity Committee. Carolyn Curti will provide Karen with the list of organizations. Karen said the Diversity Committee is considering starting a cultural day, and would like the Commission to recruit and participate in the cultural day. Thelma requested that Karen get a copy of the East Metro Integration District (EMID) plan for the Commission to review. Provide Leadership on Human Rights Issues - Mark Chapin reported that he and Patty Tschida met recently to discuss their committee. They will report at the April meeting. Building New and Strengthening Existing Partnerships with Community and Businesses Thelma McKenzie and Larry Voeller reported that they have been discussing ways the Commission can connect with businesses. They are facing some questions about how to approach the businesses. Do we ask what the challenges are that businesses face? Do we offer to be a resource? How can we build a Human Rights Network? They felt that the Commission needs to educate itself on what issues exist and then work to build a reputation in the Roseville community. Larry will draft a letter to businesses that the Commission will review at the April meeting. Commissioner Reports on Speaking to the Schools Thelma McKenzie thanked Karen Vnuk, Larry Voeller, Martha Hardesty and Steve Smith for going to the schools and speaking with different classrooms. Larry spoke with 9th and 11 th grade students at RAHS. He explained the purpose of the Human Rights Commission and then talked about relationships that lead to conflict and how to deal with it. Larry provided information from the Dispute Resolution office. Karen Vnuk and her husband spoke with 3,-d graders at Parkview Center School. They started the program talking about how Martin Luther King's actions have impacted their lives. They then spoke about their personal experiences in a biracial marriage.