2005_Human Rights Comm Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . school teacher speaking up about racism included in history books and using the works of a diverse set of authors to teach. She also talked about her work with the criminal justice system. Helland suggested that Commissioners should simply think about what they can do, and jump in and do it. The Commissioners thanked Helland for her informative presentation. Rose Parade Carolyn Curti reminded Commissioners that the Rose Parade is June 27 and the Commission will have a ride in the parade. Curti will send letters to the Essay Contest winners inviting them to ride along. She will purchase candy to be handed out. Commissioners suggested that the City produce stickers with "No Prejudice" similar to the ones Helland showed.. Curti will see if they can be printed for a reasonable cost. Anyone who plans to ride in the vehicle should let Curti know. Discrimination Complaint Commissioner Steve Smith reported that he followed up on a complaint by a Roseville resident. The resident wanted to know what/if anything could be done about a friend of hers who lives in a home owned by a local church. The pastor is telling the single African American mother living in a rental property that she is not wanted there. Commissioner Smith said he offered several alternatives, but they did not want to pursue anything at this time. Discussion of Programs/Activities in Upcoming Year Chair McKenzie began the discussion about the Commission organizing a forum about the Patriot Act. In March the Commission met with Isaac Kaufman and Louisa Hext who had recently helped organize a Patriot Act Forum in St. Louis Park. The Commission agreed to sponsor a Forum this spring, but because of time constraints and discussions over speakers, the Commission agreed to postpone the forum until the fall. After some discussion, Commissioners agreed to host the forum the evening of Tuesday, October 11. Chair McKenzie said she wanted greater regional participation and invite neighboring Human Rights Commissions to participate. Commissioners also discussed ways to involve the neighboring colleges and high school students. Commissioners should send suggestions for speakers and whom to invite to Carolyn Curti. Commissioner Smith talked about the Senior Holiday Party held in mid-December at which Commissioners volunteer to help with the party. Carolyn Curti described the New Teachers' Packet that is sent each fall to new Roseville Area School teachers. The packet was developed in response to a request from RAS Diversity Coordinator Johanna Eager. She said they have good luck recruiting a diverse teaching staff 2