Citizens' Unity Commission

Citizens’ Unity Commission Monthly Meeting Minutes Thursday, January 11, 2024 6:00 -8:00pm Community Development Conference Room, City Hall, 5th floor Attendance: Katrina Bailey, Jennifer Evans, Chris Grady, Malik Perry, Phyllis Porter, Shuntay Tarver, Kathreen Tadrous, Steven Loncar, Raquel McMillan, Vidal Dickerson, Tamika Lett, F. Gregg Horne, Natalie Cumpson Staff: Imara Gabe Diaz, Mariah Roederer Absent: Samantha Snead (AN), Brad Young (AN), Ellen Velissarios (AN), Steven Wendell (AN), Mei Stukes (AN), Dawn James-Taylor (AWN) Call to Order – Phyllis Porter, Vice-Chairperson Chairperson @ 6:05 pm Roll Call – Mariah Roederer, Program Coordinator Welcome Old Business Item 1: Review and Approval of Meeting Minutes – Commissioners were given time for review and approval of the meeting minutes from 12/14/2023. Vice Chair, Phyllis A motion to approve was made by Commissioner Katrina Bailey and 2nd by Commissioner Jennifer Evans. Item 2: 259 Ninja Toy Drive Recap – The commission discussed the previous month’s 249 Ninja Toy Drive. During this toy drive our commissioners volunteered for 6 hours to help over 180 families receive different services including toy giveaway, food giveaway, as well as community assets. Commissioners discussed the event as well as gave feedback for future events. New Business Item 1: Unity Awards – Gabe Diaz led conversation of Unity Awards, including discussing performances, and acts, order of unity awards. Gabe Diaz also led the commission in identifying guest to invite to the Unity Awards. The commission agreed and discussed the following categories and award criteria areas. Unity Champion Award: This award acknowledges individuals or teams who excel in fostering diversity within Unity development. Whether through mentorship, advocacy, or inclusive project contributions, 1 recipients of the Unity Champion Award demonstrate a commitment to creating a diverse and welcoming environment in the Unity community. Equity in Unity Award: The Equity in Unity Award recognizes outstanding efforts to ensure fairness and equal opportunities within the Hampton community. Whether through inclusive programming, outreach, or initiatives promoting diversity, recipients of this award actively contribute to creating an equitable and accessible space for all Hampton residents. Unity for Social Impact Award: This award honors projects utilizing Unity to address social issues and contribute to positive change. From educational initiatives to impactful simulations, recipients of the Unity for Social Impact Award showcase the potential to drive meaningful societal impact. Unity Advancement Award: The Unity Advancement Award commends individuals or teams for their work in enhancing community projects to be more accessible for people with diverse abilities. By incorporating inclusive design principles, accessible features, or advocating for accessibility within the community, awardees contribute to a more universally welcoming environment. CommUNITY Builder Award: This award highlights individuals or groups who foster a sense of community and support within our city through Unity development. Whether organizing local events, mentoring newcomers, or leading collaborative projects, recipients of the Unity Community Builder Award play a vital role in strengthening the community locally. Collaborative Unity Award: The Collaborative Unity Award celebrates teams that excel in fostering collaboration, embracing diversity, and working cohesively in our city. This award recognizes the collective efforts of teams that prioritize inclusivity, share knowledge effectively, and contribute to a positive and collaborative atmosphere within our city. Criteria 1: Modeling Behavior and Commitment to the Unity Commission’s Mission Description: Evaluate how the nominee has exemplified behavior aligned with the Citizens’ Unity Commission’s mission to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Criteria:  Demonstrated commitment to fostering healthy Diversity, Equity & Inclusion relations.  Impact on the community of Hampton. Criteria 2: Amplifying Awareness of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Description: Assess the nominee's efforts in raising awareness about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Criteria:  Effectiveness in amplifying awareness.  Innovation in awareness-building initiatives. Criteria 3: Fostering Connections among Citizens Description: Evaluate how the nominee has actively participated in fostering connections and positive interactions among citizens. Criteria: 2   Quality and quantity of connections fostered.  Initiatives or events facilitating citizen interactions. Criteria 4: Dispelling Myths and Misperceptions about Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Description: Assess the nominee's work in dispelling myths and correcting misperceptions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Criteria:  Clarity in dispelling myths.  Impact on changing perceptions. Criteria 5: Breaking New Ground Description: Evaluate how the nominee has broken new ground in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Criteria:  Innovations or novel approaches employed.  Positive impact on the City of Hampton. Item 2: Unity Awards Sub Committee– Program Coordinator Mariah Roederer facilitated with the sub- committee of the Unity Awards: Kathreen Tadrous and Vidal Dickerson, Shuntay Tarver, and Katrina Bailey. The sub-committee reviewed 51 nomination applications and selected 7 awardees which they recommended to the entire Citizens’ Unity Commission for voting. Action Items Unity Award Recipient Voting -- Commission voted to award 7 recommendations by the Unity Awards sub-committee. Announcements Unity Awards at the American Theatre, February 9th, TOMORROW! Adjourned 8:14 pm by Vice-Chairperson Phyllis Porter Meeting Minutes Approved at CUC monthly meeting that occurred on February 8th, 2024. 3