HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-05-14-LHRC-minLexington Human Rights Committee Minutes May 14, 2010
The chair called the meeting to order at 8:08.
Agenda Item 1: The minutes of the previous meeting were approved by
unanimous consent
Agenda Item 3:
Richard C. reported that a hangman's noose was painted on a telephone pole on
Paul Revere Road. He photographed it. Joe O'Leary said the police would look
into it after the meeting.
Joe reported that the Police Department had asked civil service to provide a list
of candidates who spoke Mandarin and asked if someone from the Chinese -
American community could assist in evaluating the language competency of
candidates. Fuang agreed to assist.
The School Department and Police have installed cameras in public areas in the
schools for security in response, in part, to concerns about bullying in the
schools. The cameras are not placed where persons would have a reasonable
expectation of privacy. The police wish to avoid any feeling that "Big Brother" is
watching so the public has been and will be kept in formed of the existence of the
cameras and the reasons
Emily reported that the Human Services had a very well attended program on
bullying and cyber bullying. Melissa reported a freshman organized a
commemoration of "Peace Day" (May 7) of sidewalk art.
Agenda Item 2: Bob, Al and Joe reported on the meeting of the Lexington Civil
Rights October program. They are seeking persons who were active in
Lexington Civil Rights activities in Town in the 1960 -1972 period, as well as
townspeople who went to the South. Al has requested the Town papers to
publish a public notice asking people who were involved in civil rights activities
to contact us, if they are willing to participate in the programs. The Sub-
committee felt that it would be useful to integrate portions of the PBS program,
"eyes On the Prize" into the program.
Deb reported for the subcommittee of her and Fuang on ways to enhance
audience participation, including handing out cards for audience members to
write questions, have the speakers - panelists meet with the moderator in
advance to be sure that questions they want asked are asked.
The Committee discussed how the November - December programs should be
presented and publicized. Among the suggestions: compare how the Town
handled the demonstrations on The Green with the demonstration against the
Westboro Baptist Church
Jesse suggested various strategies to publicize the programs and perhaps involve
students. Her suggestions included, listing the dates of the programs in the date
catalog, ask to speak to the School Committee at a public meeting in September
and the PTA presidents' meeting in October, contact principals to announce
them at the Veterans' Day assembly, speak to Jeff Leonard about including
relevant music, and write story for Colonial Times.
Next Meeting: June 11 at Town Office Building