2006_Human Rights Comm Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

. . . Commissioners then had a discussion on what the current Commission could do. Commissioner Crump noted that times have changed considerably since the 1970s. All current Commissioners work full time and don't have the time to do as much as in the past, so Commissioners must figure out what to do with their limited time. He said that the commission's greatest success would be working with students. Commissioner Crump suggested that each Commissioner pick a topic that he/she would be willing to do some extra work on and research and even be willing to do a presentation to the schools. He suggested, for example, researching what is happening in Darfur, Sudan, and presenting to students to explain human rights issues. Commissioners then discussed why they got involved in the Human Rights Commission. They got involved for personal and professional reasons. Chair Delmore asked Commissioners to think about what they want to do, and at the next meeting, the HRC will discuss achievable goals - one or two community events and getting greater newspaper coverage. Commissioner Higbee asked about getting a youth commissioner. Curti told about the Commission's recent experience with youth commissioners. It was very difficult to find students. Our efforts last year failed to get any students. The Commission has had varying results with youth Commissioners. One student was very involved and engaged and another rarely attended or participated. Commissioner Higbee suggested that each member come up with one project that he/she would be willing to work on next year. Commissioners discussed whether to invite Council Member Tammy Pust to talk about the Council's vision. After some discussion, Commissioners decided that would not be appropriate at this time. Commissioner Ann Kenney asked about inviting RAS Diversity Coordinator Johanna Eager to a meeting. Commissioner Kenney said she was willing to participate in the school's diversity planning. Commissioners directed Curti to contact Eager about attending a future meeting. They suggested that we have increased publicity for the meeting that Eager attends. Chair Delmore thanked Ann Berry for her interesting and informative presentation. Commissioner Steve Smith and Commissioner Thelma McKenzie wished the HRC the best of luck and thanked them for their support. They have both completed their second three year terms and are going off the Commission. Commissioner Kenney told members that she will send the proposed essay questions to Jeff Bibeau to see ifhe had any comments. Meeting adjourned at 8:15. 2