Human Relations Committee

Program Planning Subcommittee Minutes March 27th, 2020 Laconia City Hall – Rm. 200B Next meeting March 26 th CANCELED DUE TO COVID-19 Present: Margaret Donnelly, Carol Pierce, Rev. Judith Wright, Matt Soza, David Osman (via phone), Janet Simmon, Kate Bruchacova, David Stamps. The meeting came to order at 3pm. Rev. Judith announced that she and David S. would be meeting with Ira Keltz, Rabbi Dan & Larry Benaquist to discussion the way(s) that the film, The Sharps War, might be used in Laconia. David noted that he had viewed the film on Amazon and found it very moving and inspiring as did several others in the group. The group spent some time discussing how LHRC might be involved but ultimately concluded they needed more information from the meeting Rev. Judith and David would be attending. Margaret said that the committee needed to take a step back and define what it was trying to accomplish with its programs. David S. reminded the group that whatever we do should be built around our Vision and Mission. Several themes and ideas were put forth including “Challenging Hatred” and “Refreshing Democracy”. Janet and Matt said we need to reach out and connect with a wider audience. Margaret suggested a Community Service Day. Kate Bruchacova suggested a scaled-back Civics Academy. David S. suggest a Civility Academy. Carol took us back to the question of “What do we want to say to the Community?” David O. said we are about Human Relationships and how do we express that? Dennis suggested regular get-togethers to share stories. Others were intrigued with his idea. Just as families learn about themselves is through family stories; so too communities learn through the stories they tell themselves. The problems is that some voices in a community are drowned out such as the elderly, those with disabilities and other diverse groups. We might even consider partnering with Wayfarer or the Mill for a venue. Perhaps we need a community Ted Talks but for regular citizens. Submitted by David Stamps