2016-03-03 Human Relations Advisory Committee Minutes

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Town of Reading x'. Meeting Minutes RECEIVED i TOWN CLERK ;7,CING, MASS. Board - Committee - Commission - Council: Human Relations Advisory Committee 14ib pfAy 2 A 158 Date: 2016 -03 -03 Time: 7 pm Building: Reading Police Station Location: Community Room Address: 15 Union Street Purpose: Meeting Session: Attendees: Members - Present: Lori Hodin, David Clark, Linda Snow - Dockser, Lynn Dornink, Kyung Yu (came in at 8:00), Seema Lynch, Heather McLean Members - Not Present: Others Present: Ruthie Wilson, Catherine Grayson, Siobhan Dowcett, Jessica Squires, Lily Midnight, Sherilla Lestrade Minutes Respectfully Submitted By: Lynn Dornink Topics of Discussion: Linda opened the meeting by sharing some news items about Parker Middle School's support of a transitioning student, wedding announcements for same sex couples in the newspaper, and the adaption of gender neutral graduation gowns by class of 2016. Lori led an activity on the "Feeling Wheel" which helped members Identify underlying emotions they may have in various situations (particularly those involving power differentials). AWOD members reported on the group's activities, Including Siobhan's presentation at BU conference and letters sent by less in support of METCO Rally Day. The group also discussed criteria for getting into AWOD and how that might Impact the diversity (or lack thereof) of the organization. We discussed how the application process might be improved to increase member diversity, commitment, and accountability. Some suggestions included electing officers and speaking with advisors prior to meetings when issues arise. Seema reported on her work in researching HRAC history and purpose, and recommended the committee work to develop a strategic plan going forward. Seema believes the committee should stay under the auspices of the town, but questioned whether as an advisory committee, HRAC can achieve its goals. She further posed the question as to whether HRAC needs to change Its status, perhaps to a "Free Standing Committee ". At Seems's suggestion, we agreed that it would be valuable to look at other town's web sites, particularly those of Arlington and Melrose. She reported that the Melrose Commission had gathered information by surveying their community with a short four question survey. Heather moved and Lynn seconded that we ask about distributing a survey in Reading. The motion was approved 6 -0. Seema suggested that Kevin Sexton be invited to the next HRAC meeting. Committee members agreed as there is still confusion about HRAC's communication parameters. We then discussed action plan Items to complete before the next meeting. These included: • Seema will check with Kevin to see if we can distribute a survey (hard copy and electronic) at the Debby Irving event. She will also send the four questions from the Medford survey. Page 1 1