2002-06-13 Human Relations Advisory Committee Minutes

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HUMAN RELATIONS ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETIN yIVED June 13, 2002 TOWN CLERK Reading Police Station Community Room MASS. 7:30 p.m. 2002 DEC A Sa 5 5 Present: Terrence Jones, Paul Kelley, Philip Maher, Emily Maughan, Carol Roberts, Bob Silva, Sumi Sinnatamby, Margaret Soli, and Edward Toland. Guests: Dan and Flo Silva; Reporter for the Reading Chronicle. 1. Meeting called to order by Margaret S. 2. Minutes of the preceding meeting passed as they stand. 3. Updates on current projects: Terry Jones will be traveling for his job in the future and unable to investigate the international Festival at this time. Emily Maughan reported that according to Frank Orlando at Reading High, new staff receive training on harassment when they are inducted as new teachers. Students have groups such as peer Leaders and Unity Club. Emily to contact Harry Harutunian regarding introduction of trainings. Will also contact Frank Amoroso to do workshops after discussing same with Harry. Margaret S. reported that Reading Public Library book discussions on hold due to change in library hours and availability of space for meetings. Sumi Sinnatamby reported that we can send a letter requesting specific books on diversity to the Reading Junior Women's Club and they will select those they wish to donate to the High School and middle schools. Chief Silva reported that Northeastern continues to look at the citations given by the police to check for bias. In a 3 month interval, the Reading Police Department gave the highest number to white male drivers. Chief Silva distributed article (attached) "The Real Facts About Force." 4. Cultural Differences: Dan and Flo Silva. Ms. Silva discussed ways in which Americans differ from Argentineans. Topics included family, meals eaten together, eye contact, free college and music education, planning vs. spontaneous socializing, politics not discussed in her country, current economic crisis, work schedules, among others. Lively discussion much appreciated by Committee members. New Summerfest dates are August 1, 2, and 3. Need brochure by then for distribution. Copy approved by committee with some changes. Will place brochures in Town Hall, Library, schools, churches, send to Board of Selectmen, grocery stores, senior center, and other groups/ locations as needed and appropriate. Farewell to out-going committee members Robin D'Antona and Emily Maughan. Meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m. Next meeting: July 11, 2002, 7:30 p.m., Reading Police Station Community Room Respectfully submitted, Emily Maughan Secretary