HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-12-02-LHRC-min
Lexington Human Rights Committee
Meeting Minutes
Dec 2, 2016
Present
: Lieutenant James Barry, Judy Crocker, Detective Aidan Evelyn, Bonnie
Brodner, Linda Vine, Charlotte Rodgers, Al Zabin, Kristie Demirev, Fuang-Ying Huang,
Pastor Brent Maracle, Bhumip Khasnabish, Jeff Toronto
Meeting held at Lexington Community Center, Room 237 at 8:00 a.m.
Guests:
Committee welcomed Town Manager, Mr. Carl Valente and guest Mr. Dan
Krupta of 20/20’s representing the Demographic Change Task Force.
Valerie Overten, Stephanie Hus.
Mr. Valente opened the discussion and explained that the 20/20 Committee was looking
for assistance on carrying out some of the initiatives sited in the Demographic Change
Task Force report. The report is in draft form and will need to be reviewed by both the
Board of Selectmen and the School Committee. This step is scheduled to happen in the
next 2 months.
Ms. Krupta briefed the committee on 20/20’s on its survey on over 20 towns throughout
the country with similar diversity resident bodies as Lexington, particularly with Asian
population of 30% and more.
Based on the results of the survey, the subcommittee has recommended that Lexington
consider the option to create a Diversity Think Tank to promote cultural diversity.
Once the final report is published, Mr. Valente is looking forward to work with HRC to
incorporate 20/20’s suggestions into HRCs mission.
Mr. Khasnabish suggested the diversity is represented in the Diversity Think Tank. Mr.
Khasnabish also stressed the need to pro-actively schedule events and outreach activities
in diversity training including ALL town and school employees, and local commerce.
Department Reports:
Human Service Dept.
1.With the help of Lion Club, Rotary Club and local commerce, HSD has a
great success in holiday programs for families in need. Gifts cards are
distributed as well as meals for Thanksgiving and Christmas (Temple
Isaiah provides a Christmas meal)
2.A new monthly program for parents of child with addiction starts next
Monday at Lexington Community Center. The program titled
“Strengthening Families” will run monthly from December – June.
Police Dept.
1.Police are investigating local church receiving hate letter.
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2.“Fill the Cruiser” toy for tots drive on Dec. 9, from 9AM to 1PM, the
cruiser will be parked in the center of Town. All are asked to participate.
School Dept.
1.Superintendent Dr. Czajkowski sent letter to family after the election to
express her commitment of an inclusive school.
2.Metco conference update was provided.
Community Engagement – update from Brett regarding MLK day events with the
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day of service held at Grace Chapel 9:00 a.m. on January 16. The next step
regarding the book discussion "Common Ground" will be held at that time.
Facilitators are needed and Bonnie agreed to contact the LWV for their help.
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On December 8 Temple Isaiah will offer a program "Hearts and Minds," to
discuss racism in America. Fliers were distributed.
Member Update – Al Zabin suggested that perhaps HRC should draft a statement
regarding the current social climate, re-state the committee’s values, and ask the
BOS to support. Motion made and seconded to ask Al and Bonnie to work on the
statement and send to Sean for review. Linda will let the BOS Chair know that
this is underway.
The meeting ended at 9:20 a.m.
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Next Meeting is scheduled for Friday, January 6 at 8:00 a.m.