HomeMy WebLinkAboutEquityDiversity 2011-06-02 MinutesEQUITY AND DIVERSTIY COMMISSION MEETING
MINUTES
JUNE 2, 2011
PRESENT: Joan Hernandez, Brenna Arnesen, Mary Hulvey
ABSENT: Kathleen Gantz, Mellody Matthes, Aaron Draganov, Jonathan Joseph
STAFF: Joyce Trantina
GUESTS: Sharon Mann
Meeting was called to order at 5:15 p.m.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Minutes from the May 5, 2011 meeting were read and approved. Motion to approve by Joan
Hernandez, seconded by Mary Hulvey.
HERITAGE AND CULTURAL EVENT, AUG. 20, 2011
The group discussed the upcoming Community Cultural Heritage event, scheduled for August 20. Joyce
shared that an application for a booth for Equity and Diversity Commission has been completed, and
that there will be a small fee for the table/chairs. She also shared the feedback regarding "sign-ups"
from the group as shown below:
Kathleen — out of town
Aaron — can help as needed
Brenna — may not be available
Joan — 11:00 — 3:00
Mary — 11:00 — 3:00
Joyce — 11:00 — 1:00
Stacy Hansen (Human Services) has also volunteered to help at the booth from 1:00— 3:00. The group
has an adequate supply of Equity/Diversity brochures. This table will also serve as the "City booth" in
case other departments would like to provide info. to residents. We already know that Human Services
will have some handouts. Joyce will offer booth space to other City departments.
Mary talked with the group about her progress on the banner, and the group discussed colors and style
(keep it simple and bright, multi -national flags, or children holding hands, etc.) The shuttle van will likely
run to/from Foster High School to the Heritage Center, since most folks along TIB can walk to the High
School and are familiar with this area. She is qualified to drive the van herself, and will coordinate this
with staff at the Community Center. She will also take care of ordering the banner.
Equity and Diversity Minutes
June 2, 2011
TUKWILA INTERNATIONAL BOULEVARD ACTION COMMITTEE (TIBAC)
Joan provided an overview regarding the Commission's work to date with the Somali group
(presentations, meetings with Don Lincoln) in an effort to determine whether or not there is enough
interest to hold some type of community "forum" . Don had previously volunteered to facilitate such a
community discussion with our Somali residents and other groups. There had been an interest in
determining whether or not it would be beneficial for Equity and Diversity members to team up with
members of the Tukwila International Boulevard Action Committee in this project, since both groups are
very small with limited resources. Sharon Mann, TIBAC Co -Chair, shared that the TIBAC group is very
focused right now on providing support to the Tukwila village project, and it would be difficult for th em
to take on any other projects at this time. She shared that it can be difficult to get participation by
members of the Somali business population for a variety of reasons. The questions came up about
possible grant opportunities. Joan shared that she attended a Seattle Housing Authority panel a few
years ago that provided good background and history regarding the Somali culture.
The group felt this might be something to work on next summer
CITIZEN COMMENTS
None
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Sharon indicated that ValVue Sewerwould be hostingtheirannual open house in July and wondered if it
would be a good idea to have a table at the event (COPCAB/TIBAC/E & D). She will get back to the group
with a date.
Joyce shared that the Somali CSC students would like to tour City Hall on July 8, as part of their Summer
Adventure program. Joyce will coordinate and keep Equity and Diversity members advised.
Terms will be expiring forJoan, Jonathan, Kathleen and Aaron on July 31, 2011. Since Jonathan Joseph
will not be returning and Joan will no longer be a Council member, she may consider moving to a vacant
community Representative Position if the Mayor and Commission members would like her to continue
on the Commission. Joyce will draft a letter to Jonathan Joseph, thanking him for his service, and get in
touch with Kathleen and Aaron to see if they are willing to continue serving on the Commission for a
new term.
Several handouts were provided: calendarfor 2011/2012 meeting dates and a flyerfor an lnternational
Festival happening June 25/26 in SeaTac;
Meeting adjourned at 6:10.
NEXT MEETING — JULY 7, 2011