Human Relations Commission

Commission on Human Relations Minutes September 27th, 2021 Skokie Police Station Attendance: Alex Chaparro, Krishna Goyal, Jonathan Laran, Jim McVane, Daphnee Camilien, Swarupa Pahan, Karen Sherman, James Specker, Deborah Arnold, Maria Monastero Bueno (Chair), Khem Khoeun(Trustee) Minutes Introduction of Members: Jim is new to Skokie, from West Ridge. Swaupa had a big block party honoring first responders. She suggested we all get involved in block parties in our neighborhoods. Krishna worked on Festival of Cultures, Lions Club. John is a block captain and neighborhood watch. Karen also worked on Festival of Cultures. Alex has been a member for 5 years, is a realtor and member of fair housing. Maria lived in Lincolnwood then moved to Skokie and has been here for 30 years. James has been on the commission for 3 years, loves the block parties and all the Skokie events. Daphnee is a new member. Background of Human Relations Commission: Human Relations Commissions was started in in the early 1960’s for Fair Housing, tenant/landlord issues, there was a Know Your Neighbor Program funded by the Chicago Community Trust where people would hist a coffee at their house. Village official would come and chat with neighbors. It was very grass roots and popular program. What Does the Human Relations Commission Do?  Facilitate Block Parties: Commissioners attend local block parties, forum to help plan parties, Block Party of the Year Awards  Coming Together in Skokie-Started around 10 years ago by 4 women leaders of Skokie who formed a book club. Honored different cultures every year. Looking for volunteers for monthly meetings.  Festival of Cultures-no information yet for this year; usually held 3rd weekend in May at Oakton Park.  SEED training- 9-month program, 1 time a month, 3 hours, National program for equity within community  Electronic training for new commissioners New Business Karen-Volunteer fair for Skokie non-profits, perhaps there will be a giving spirit after COVID and Niles Township needs volunteers. James added why not included small business and new business and show support for them Louis-Eviction moratorium over in October. Need to help with tenant information work with Niles Township Bonnie-Township President. Louie to talk with her and invite her to HRC meeting. Jim-no Skokie homeless shelter 537150v1 Louis-Skokie Patch Article, Skokie Indians name change, Village should retire their use of Native American seal. To have discussions in future meetings. Amy has done research in the past about this. To be discussed later. Meeting dates: 10/25, 12/06, 01/24, 02/28, 03/28, 04/25, 05/23, 06/27 Adjournment Respectfully submitted by Iris Barrios 537150v1