HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-05-09-LHRC-min.pdf
Town of Lexington Human Rights Committee
Meeting Minutes for Friday, May 09, 2025
LHRC MEMBERS PRESENT
Christina Lin, Chair (CL); Stephanie Hsu, Vice-Chair (SH); Hafsah Syed (HS); Mamata Banerjee (MB)
Guests from Indian Americans of Lexington (IAL): Archana Singhal (AS), Mona Roy (MR), Archan Basu
(AB), Ravneet Grewal (RG)
The minutes recorded by Christina Lin
● Meeting called to order at 2:37pm
● Committee members reviewed sponsorship request from IAL for LHRC co-sponsorship
Community Conversation: 60 Years of AAPI Voices Shaping Lexington’s Story
Saturday, May 31, 2025
2:00 - 4:00PM at Lexington High School
Program description:
2025 also marks the 60th anniversary of the Hart-Celler Immigration and Nationality Act, which
opened the doors for many AAPI as well as African immigrants to the United States—and helped
shape Lexington into the vibrant, diverse community we are today. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s
advocacy for civil rights and human dignity helped lay the groundwork for this landmark
legislation. To honor these milestones, the Indian Americans of Lexington (IAL) (with SASA) is
hosting a Community Celebration of AAPI Immigration. The event will feature a short panel
presentation, community discussions, youth-led games open to all, and cultural refreshments.
A committee member asked about inclusionary practices in the planning process
and of the panelist. Organizers explained the program is open for all community
members. And the content of the program intentionally highlights cross-racial
solidarity and allyship. Cultural and affinity groups in town were invited to
co-sponsor this event and Lexington Public School District was also made aware of
this educational programming.
An additional question about IAL’s internal structure was asked. The Chair shared
that the LHRC has had a long history and positive partnership with IAL and have
co-sponsored other programs in the past.
Motion for the LHRC to co-sponsor IAL’s “Community Conversation: 60 Years of AAPI
Voices Shaping Lexington’s Story” was passed by a vote of 3-1-0
Meeting adjourned
1625 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE • LEXINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02420