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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020 - Human Relations Commission - Annual Report Human Relations Commission 2020 Annual Report 2019 ANNUAL REPORT Page 1 HRC Mission Statement As community leaders and advisors, the Human Relations Commission collaborates, educates and advocates for equity and inclusion in the City of Fort Collins. INTRODUCTION The 2020 Human Relations Commissioners: Beth Jaeger, Phil Walker, Eva Amason, Cindy Davis, Julia Mackewich, Wendy True, Jean Runyon and Victor Smith. The HRC continued with a broad plan for supporting human relations issues that were pertinent to the City of Fort Collins, aligning its goals with City Outcome Areas of: Neighborhood Livability and Social Health, Safe Community and High Performing Government. Consistent with City Code and HRC’s Mission Statement, as community leaders and advisors to City Council, in 2020 the HRC researched, deliberated and took proactive and responsive measures to promote the dignity of individuals and groups in Fort Collins. The HRC facilitated a retreat in February to introduce new members to the HRC, evaluate the HRC duties and mission and make plans for 2020. In 2020, the HRC continued to monitor the evolving City Council Six Month Planning Calendar to enable the Commission to proactively advise Council on pending issues relating to the HRC mission and mandates. A number of guest speakers were invited or requested to speak to the HRC including: Emily Gorgol, City Councilmember and HRC Council Liaison, conducted a Periodic Review, reviewed HRC projects and how she can support as liaison, gave update on the Reimagine Boards and Commissions initiative Mandy Miller, United Way of Larimer County, discussed current partnership opportunities, including a community Mental Health Symposium Human Relations Commission 2020 Annual Report 2020 ANNUAL REPORT Page 2 HRC INITIATIVES The HRC purchased Transforming White Privilege in 2019, curriculum from World Trust, with the intention of expanding our educational work on inclusion and bias within the City of Fort Collins in partnership with Social Sustainability and the HRC City staff liaison. In the midst of remote work challenges, the HRC decided to postpone its presentation of Transforming White Privilege material to 2021. Due to the nature of the material, the HRC feels it is imperative to have an experienced facilitator whether the material is presented in person or remotely. MEMO TO CITY COUNCIL A memo to City Council was sent regarding: Input to Council re: Responding to Hate Crimes and Bias Incidents The HRC asked council and City leaders to be brave in their response to and admonishment of hate or bias motivated events. HRC COMMITTEE REPORTS Media/Community Recognition Committee Organized the annual Human Relations Awards ceremony to celebrate those in the community who work to advance human rights and well-being. The ceremony took place via zoom. Human Relation Awardees below. Mirriam Carraquel-Nagy + Patricia Miller Adult recipient Payton Perkins Youth recipient Erma Woodfin Senior recipient Jeff Swoboda Police and emergency services recipient The Family Center La Familia Organization recipient Human Relations Commission 2020 Annual Report 2020 ANNUAL REPORT Page 3 Government Relations Committee Attended and monitored City Council meetings. Monitored the City Council Calendar to stay informed about upcoming issues. Monitored public input at Council meetings for topics that were relevant to the HRC. Continued communications with Department of Social Sustainability and City leaders on Principles of Community. Executive Committee Scheduled agendas for HRC monthly and special meetings. Ensured appropriate communication with the Council Liaison and City Council. Delegated issues to committees as appropriate. Provided support to HRC committees as needed. Education and Outreach Committee This committee began to research and form ideas on how to best utilize and prepare Transforming White Privilege material. CONCLUSION This annual report was based on HRC’s 2019/2020 Work Plan. Some goals were altered due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our Plans for 2020 changed throughout the year and HRC members will continue to adjust to changing conditions while planning for 2021. This commission will advocate for equitable advancements in our community, while remaining alert and responsive to current events. The HRC will continue to act in an advisory capacity to City Council, with a vision to enhance acceptance and respect in our growing community.