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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMemo - Mail Packet - 2/2/2016 - Memorandum From Vic Smith Re: Human Relations Commission To Work On Equity And Inclusion In 2016City Manager’s Office City Hall 300 LaPorte Ave. PO Box 580 Fort Collins, CO 80522 970.221.6505 970.224.6107 - fax fcgov.com MEMORANDUM DATE: January 22, 2016 TO: Mayor and City Councilmembers Darin A. Atteberry, City Manager Jeff Mihelich, Deputy City Manager Jacqueline Kozak Thiel, Chief Sustainability Officer Beth Sowder, Social Sustainability Director FROM: Vic Smith, Chair, Human Relations Commission RE: Human Relations Commission to Work on Equity and Inclusion in 2016 ________________________________________________________________________ Introduction The Human Relations Commission (HRC) was established by City Council to promote acceptance and respect for diversity through educational programs and activities, and to discourage all forms of discrimination based on race, religion, age, gender, disability, etc. The Commission often coordinates these efforts with other City boards and commissions, community groups and organizations. Consistent with HRC’s 2016 Work Plan as well as the recommendation of Councilmember Overbeck, HRC’s Council Liaison, with the concurrence of Mayor and Council, the HRC plans to work with partners to facilitate a community-based, collaborative and compassionate approach to address issues related to diversity, equity and inclusion in Fort Collins this year. Initiatives of Commission Members will Include • Work with City staff and partners to raise awareness about the HRC as an accessible community resource for listening to concerns related to diversity, equity and inclusion. • Reach out to partners and stakeholders to evaluate processes and explore ideas to identify the benefits of a diverse community and encourage equity and inclusion. • Help to convene and facilitate community conversations that deepen understanding, celebrate diversity, and identify opportunities to work together toward common goals. • Make recommendations to Council as appropriate. Next Steps The HRC will update Council by memos periodically re: community discussions and outcomes. The HRC will continue to coordinate with Social Sustainability and other City staff as key support partners.