HomeMy WebLinkAboutEquityDiversity 2011-02-03 MinutesEQUITY AND DIVERSITY COMMISSION MEETING
February 3, 2011
Minutes
PRESENT:
Commissioners: Joan Hernandez, Mary Hulvey, Aaron Draganov, Carolyn Barge,
Mellody Matthes, Kathleen Gantz
Staff: Joyce Trantina
Guests: Officer Don Lincoln, Tukwila Police Dept., Tracy Gallaway, Volunteer
Coordinator, Parks & Rec.
ABSENT: Brenna Arnesen, Jonathan Joseph
Meeting called to order at 5:15 p.m.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Minutes from the January 6, 2011 meeting were read and reviewed. Motion was made by Joan
Hernandez and seconded by Mary Hulvey to accept the minutes.
PRESENTATION
Tracy Gallaway provided information regarding the City's upcoming (and first) Heritage and Cultural
Celebration, to be held at the new Heritage Center (old City Hall/Library building) on Saturday, August
20th. As a result of budget reductions, staff is refocusing some of its events on "mini events" rather than
past, large activities such as Tukwila Days. There will be smaller, but more frequent opportunities for
the community to come together for educational and fun activities, and smaller events will allow for
more outreach into otherareas of the community. Organizers are evaluating other locations throughout
the City for upcoming activities. A formal planning committee has not been formed yet, but Tracy asked
members of the Commission to brainstorm ideas for the event. This event may include a "food fair",
vendor booths and music. The group suggested that Carolyn talk with Cynthia Chesek (Foster High
School drama coach) to see if there might be an interest in having students provide entertainment.
Tracy indicated that the Arts Commission will be focusing their efforts on the Backyard Wildlife Fair,
rather than the Heritage and Cultural celebration. The group indicated they would do some
brainstorming and forward ideas to Tracy (Joyce will provide her email info. to the members).
The School District has some events in February and March that might also provide a way to tap into
resources.
Officer Don Lincoln provided the group with an update from the meeting with Somali representatives,
indicating thatthe meeting went well, and that there is a core group of people trying to develop a good
working relationship with Tukwila and SeaTac Police Departments. They talked about the need for
translation, and the challenges associated with knowing how and when to call "911". He also felt that
Equity & Diversity
Minutes
February 3, 2011
there was an opportunity to educate children about the consequences of their actions, when laws are
broken, etc. He believes the community is open for more outreach, and if the Commission wants to
engage in a minority/community type meeting, he would be willing to help. Don also offered to have
Commission members on "ride alongs" with him, as a way to gain a better understanding of some of the
challenges facing our minority residents. Interested Commission members can contact Don directly at
(206) 433-1667, or dlincoln@ci.tukwila.wa.us.
GRANT APPLICATION
After discussion, members agreed to table the request for grant funding from the Somali Community
Services Coalition until decisions are made regarding our involvement in the Cultural fair. Funds are very
limited, and it makes sense to look at a broader range of activities, before committing to any one
particular group/event.
The group discussed upcoming School District events — International Day (committee is just getting
started), and there will be a district wide celebration at the end of the year.
Kathleen will send an updated list of family night dates and information to Joyce, to be distributed to the
group.
CITIZEN COMMENTS
None
OTHER
Joyce distributed a supply of Equity and Diversity Commission flyers to members, as well as an article
from the PNW LocalNews.com (Tukwila Reporter) regarding Irma Guerrero-Kusmirek, and a copy of the
City of Auburn Diversity announcements (provided by Joan Hernandez).
Meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m.
Next meeting: March 3, 2011