Human Relations Committee

Laconia Human Relations Committee March 14, 2022 - 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 3:32m. II. ATTENDANCE Present – Chair David Stamps, Mayor Andrew Hosmer, Carol Pierce, Matt Soza, Rev. Judith Wright, Janet Simons, Pat Wood, Carrie Chandler Present via Zoom – David Osman Present via Phone – Seifu Ragassa Excused – Trish Weatherbee, Kate Bruchacova, Kay Anderson III. OLD BUSINESS Minutes Approval – A motion was made by Judith Wright, seconded by Matt Soza, to accept the minutes of the February 14, 2022 Laconia Human Relations Committee. With no further discussion, the motion passed unanimously. Laconia Multi-Cultural Day – Celebrate Laconia is open to working with the committee to support an event this year. A meeting has been scheduled to include the Mill and Becky Guyer to discuss a collaboration. Southern Poverty Law article: “Ten Ways to Fight Hate” – continued discussion from previous meeting regarding ways to respond to difficult incidences; to understand the difference between hate crimes and bias incidence. Police discernment is important. A discussion is needed with Chief Matt Canfield to determine the need and where we as a committee may offer help. A critical incident may be related to race, religion, gender, disability, mental health, etc. Lakes Region Mental Health has a Quality Improvement committee that reviews critical incidents involving their clients. Democracy Letters Project – several committee members have been working since January to draft a series of articles to run in the newspaper related to Democracy. The theme “A More Perfect Union” will provide the framework. The goal is to promote awareness, knowledge and engagement within the community. Committee members were asked to read the articles and attend a meeting on March 29th to solidify plans to launch the series. Comments may be sent to David Stamps prior. There was discussion related to the role of the committee to be provocative and encourage further in person discussion. It was mentioned that images are important – and can be very effective. We have great venues for in person discussions. Pat Wood and Andrew offered to explore facilitators through the NH Humanities Council to help lead challenging community interactive conversations. The Putnam Fund also has resources. 1 IV. NEW BUSINESS None presented. V. PUBLIC COMMENTS There was no one present for public comment. VI. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned by Chair David Stamps 4:55p. Next meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 11, 2022, 3:30p, City Hall Room 200A and via zoom invite. Respectfully Submitted, Carrie Chandler, Recording Secretary 2