Cultural Connections Committee

Nashua City hall 2nd floor conference room Members Present: Thomas Lopez (Chair), Mary Ann Melizzi­Golja, Sharon Dalton, Christine Villeneuve, Janeth Orozco Sanchez, Carlos Camacho, Andrew Smith, Dendrea Smith and Jenifer Hinderer. Opening: Chairman Tom Lopez stated the mission of NEAC and welcome all participants to an optional meeting according to the bylaws of not requiring to be meeting during July and August, as there was a quorum the meeting proceeded as a regular committee meeting. The purpose of this meeting was to plan and organize community events to increase the committee’s visibility to non­specific minority communities and to create a relationship with key interested parties in those communities, also to facilitate citizens’ engagement. a. Event planning Focus / Brainstorm Possible opportunity to celebrate diversity, and reaching out to key minority participants a. Resource Information How we engage the committee with the community at large There are two spots available for business in the committee Marianne Melizi­Golia­ perhaps there should be another group and it should have proposal, purpose and ideas like the Mayor suggested. Andrew S. proposed collaboration from state DMC possible for some activities. Brainstorming break outs What are three characteristics you would like to see in an Ethnic Awareness event. What are two ideas that can be achieved with reasonably short notice through partnering with other agencies or through use of limited resources? What is one long term event that is achievable within three to five months? Group reports/Discussion Characteristics: engage all citizens with the city resources and have a celebratory feeling Translate any brochure or announcements. NEAC members visible in community, familiar with mission, programs and resources. members represent ethnic populations in Nashua Short term goals Ethnic Awareness Committee would have participants of the committee be involved in the City events. Complete draft of publicity, work on branding Community Outreach: Leadership program partnered with DMC. Monthly social activities, request funding from city. Long Term Goals Establishing NEAC credibility on Ethnic Awareness issues in the city. Resources for referral to meet needs of immigrants, refugees and other minority communities Action Items: Tom L. will contact Paul B. (city Clerk) to complete brochures in time for Latino Festival. Ramadan­ Sharon Dalton would provide a report Latino Festival­ Sharon D. will represent NEAC with brochures at table, Janeth O. appointed to assist with translation. Block Party­ Members appointed to attend and represent NEAC mission.  Ash Street would have Janeth Orozco and Tom Lopez French Hills Nashua South Exit One Mariane Melizi­Golia and Andrew S. Tom L. and MaryAnne M. will arrange meeting with mayor to discuss resources. Next meeting: August 20, 2013 Announcements/ close meeting 30th Nashua Night Out