Workers' Rights Commission

Durham Workers Rights Commission Meeting 09.26.2023- Virtually via Zoom Attendees: Antonio Luster, Brian Powell, Bjorn Pedersen, Elise Ballan, Idreese Foxworth Agenda Items: CALL TO ORDER: 6:03pm PUBLIC COMMENTS – No one spoke during public comments. MINUTES/OLD BUSINESS A. Note: The vote on the June Minutes were approved at 6:04pm; moved by Brian Powell and Second by Bjorn Pedersen B. Introduction of New Member Elise Ballan COMMITTEE UPDATES: • Elise introduced herself and gave her work background and experience as it pertains to why she joined DWRC. • Antonio asked for members to introduce themselves and give their background to welcome Elise to the board. • Brian proposed to challenge each member to invite a person(s) to the next meeting. • Antonio proposed a motion to write a resolution of support to the Public Works City Workers. He wants to submit this resolution before the next Work Session; moved by Elise and seconded by Bjorn; approved at 6:15pm. • Antonio will submit a draft to Council Member Johnson to review and present to the Council for October 5, 2023 Work Session. • Brian gave updates on the Workers+ Subcommittee; the Metrics portion is close to being finalized. He stated he will email the commission to get feedback on moving forward and also on what establishment to plant the Metrics for results. Elise was introduced to the details of the development and objective of the Subcommittee. • Antonio updated the commission on the City’s Grievance policy; a meeting with the City Manager’s Office on September 28th at 4:15pm. He plans to give the follow-up from that meeting in the October meeting. • Antonio proposed for members to brainstorm on ways to stay engaged and hit the objectives within the Commission’s bylaws. Ideas are welcomed for the forthcoming meetings. • Brian proposed to have a social event to network and build relationships with those in the workforce within the community. • Idreese proposed to address the subject of ‘People of Color’ as it pertains to Worker’s Rights in Durham. • Bjorn asked how DWRC events are presented to the public. Antonio shared the social media platforms and shared future ideas of letting the public know of what’s going on within the commission.  • Brian shared a proposal in mind to have the City to sponsor a new program/podcast based on Labor within Durham. • Brian shared the works within the Durham Workers Assembly; if you would like more information on this please reach out to him for more details. • Brian shared information on the candidates forum for September 27th; Mayor Forum 5pm-6pm Workers Speak Out 6p-6:30p City Council Forum 6:30pm-7:30pm Location: Lyon Park Center ANNOUNCEMENTS- A. Five vacancies open on the board; please encourage those you know that are interested in the commission to apply. B. Brian will send out the Workers+ information via email to review and make suggestions if needed. C. Antonio shared he will ask CM Johnson on the process of the new Liaison after her departure. D. If you are not added to the GroupMe please contact Antonio Luster to be added. Meeting Adjourned at 6:52pm Next meeting: October 24th at 6pm Respectfully Submitted by: Ashlee Adams, Secretary to Workers’ Right’s Commission.