Human Relations Committee

Laconia Human Relations Committee November 8, 2021 - Meeting Minutes I. CALL TO ORDER David Stamps welcomed everyone to the meeting of the Laconia Human Relations Committee. Committee member roll call was taken, a quorum was established, and the meeting was called to order at 3:38pm. II. ATTENDANCE Present – Chair David Stamps, Carol Pierce, David Osman, Matt Soza, Trish Weatherbee and Carrie Chandler Present via Zoom – Margaret Donnelly and Rev. Judith Wright Excused – Mayor Andrew Hosmer, Kate Bruchacova, Kay Anderson and Seifu Ragassa Leave of Absence – Janet Simmon III. OLD BUSINESS Minutes Approval – A motion was made by David Osman, seconded by Carol Pierce, to accept the minutes of the October 12, 2021 Laconia Human Relations Committee with one date correction that occurred prior to posting. With no further discussion, the motion passed unanimously. Homeless Taskforce – Isaiah 61 Café is looking for sleeping bags, anything warm, particularly outerwear. St. Vincent’s is also accepting these items. Program Planning – subcommittee met to discuss Martin Luther King Jr. Day and other 2022 programming.  NH Humanities Council – links to various programs that might meet the mission o A new program called “open questions” – philosophy based and presented by two teachers o What does it take to be an American as someone who believes in democracy? o The civic reckoning that was 2020 – what it means for teaching and learning civics o Fake news in America  Charge is modest - mileage only for speakers and whatever food, Belknap Mill is offering their venue at no charge – offer perhaps $100 towards cleanup 1   Need to be sure that whatever programs we select ties in with the strategic theme outlined for 2022 around equity, equality and inclusion within our community – that everyone is deserving of the same chance for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Potential speakers should have an understanding of the committee’s equity and inclusion theme with respect to our community.  We want to engage the city of Laconia in conversation – with strong facilitation.  Agreement that Martin Luther King Jr. Day program needs further work to ensure that it is truly representative; sub-committee will meet again on November 18th at 1:30 pm. IV. NEW BUSINESS It was suggested that the Committee do something publicly to celebrate former Mayor Ed Engler’s life; honoring his work with the Laconia Human Relations Committee. V. PUBLIC COMMENTS There was no one present for public comment. VI. ADJOURNMENT A motion was made by David Osman, seconded by Matt Soza, to adjourn the meeting – and at 4:45p the meeting was adjourned by Chair David Stamps. Next meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 13, 2021, 3:30p in person and via zoom invite. Respectfully Submitted, Carrie Chandler, Recording Secretary 2