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HomeMy WebLinkAboutEquityDiversity 2011-04-07 MinutesEQUITY AND DIVERSITY COMMISSION MINUTES April 7, 2011 PRESENT: Joan Hernandez, MaryHulvey, Aaron Draganov, Kathleen Gantz ABSENT: Carolyn Barge, MellodyMatthes, Jonathan Joseph, Brenna Arnesen Meeting was called to order at 5:15 p.m. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes from the March 3, 2011 meeting were read and forwarded to the May meeting for review by the larger group. Some edits/corrections were identified and will be made prior to the May review. DISCUSSION The group shared their thoughts regardingthe presentation by the Somali representatives at the March meeting. Unfortunately, the consensus of the group was that the Somali folks would like a lot of resources that are just not available, which is true of almost every group in the community. The need is so much bigger than the funds that are available. The role of Equity and Diversity Commission members needs to be more focused on helping establish contacts between various groups within the community, doing outreach where/when it can provide some positive support to these groups. Discussion continued regarding whether or not the Equity & Diversity Commission members should consider partnering with the TIBAC group on a community forum event. TIBAC has quite a few members, and knows many of the businesses and residents working or living near Tukwila International Boulevard. Their work is more on the Highway, but it due to budget constraints and limited resources, it might be worthwhile to explore options for working together on a project. It was recommended that we bring this forward in May for further discussion — Brenna may have suggestions regarding bringing a few people ions, bring a few people from TIBAC to the June meeting. The group felt it would be worthwhile to have a presence at the Cultural Fair (Heritage Center) by providing handouts at a "booth". They also discussed the possibility of sponsoring transportation (shuttle service) from apartments near TIB, and from TCC, to the Heritage Center. Aaron will ask about parking at the school for the August event. Mary will check into bus options with our Parks and Rec. folks. Since it's a City vehicle, the group wondered about the cost for gas. Mary will check with Tracy in Parks and Rec. to see if this has already been planned as part of the Cultural Fair, and she will also look into prices for a vinyl banner. The group discussed the Grant Application received earlier this year from the Somali folks and due to the small budget this year, wondered if there is there an "in kind" contribution in lieu of money (something specific) — something for recreation, admission costs, tickets, gas, etc. versus just giving them a blank check. We might have the ability to purchase more volume. OTHER ITEMS: • Joyce will check with the Somali folks to ask the question, prior to the May meeting. • Joyce will bring copies of the E/D article from the Reporter for the group (May meeting). • Joan handed out info. from the Ethnic Heritage Council. The 15th Annual Sister City Reception will be in Seattle, Thursday, April 29th. Tickets are $20 each, and Joan believes the Commission has paid for attendance in the past. Joyce will scan the info. and send out to the rest of the committee. Aaron advised the Commission that Robert House, ESL teacher and one of the coordinators for International Day, could use help rehearsing with the kids for the flag ceremony on Friday, June 10th from 9:00 — 11:00 a.m. (practice would be earlier in the week). Aaron will let us know. Maybe a couple of us could help with the kids (dress rehearsal). Tukwila Elementary. Meeting adjourned at 5:50 p.m.