HomeMy WebLinkAboutEquityDiversity 2010-01-06 MinutesEQUITY AND DIVERSITY COMMISSION MEETING
January 6, 2010
Minutes
PRESENT:
Commissioners: Joan Hernandez, Brenna Arnesen, Mary Hulvey, Aaron Draganov,
Mellody Matthes
Staff: Joyce Trantina
Guests: Officer Don Lincoln, Tukwila Police Dept., Kathleen Gantz, Tukwila
School District (Commissioner -elect)
ABSENT: Carolyn Barge, Jonathan Joseph
Meeting called to order at 5:15 p.m.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Minutes from the December 2, 2010 meeting were read and reviewed. Motion was made by Joan
Hernandez and seconded by Mellody Matthes to accept the minutes as modified.
UPDATE ON COMMISSION VACANCIES
Joyce advised the members that Kathleen Gantz's application had been reviewed by the Mayor,
forwarded to City Council for review, and her appointment will be confirmed at the January 18, 2011
City Council meeting. Since she is filling the vacancy on Position #2, her current term will expire on July
31, 2011.
Discussion continued regarding members who are unable to participate on a Commission or Board.
Unfortunately, Jonathan Joseph has missed the majority of meetings over the past year. Since his term
will expire July 31, 2011 the members will suggest filling the position with a community member who
can participate more actively in the position.
After discussion regarding the current Chair/Vice Chair positions, the motion was made (Joan
Hernandez) and seconded (Mary Hulvey) that Brenna Arnesen assume the position of Commission Chair,
and Carolyn Barge continue as Vice -Chair. The motion carried (unanimous).
PRESENTATION
Officer Don Lincoln talked with the group about an upcoming police/community meeting on
Saturday,January8 forthe Somali business leaders, which will be held at the SeaTacCenter. The focus is
to continue efforts at building trust with both police departments, and to discuss crime and police
relations issues. There is no expectation for electeds (nor other City officials) to attend. Don provided
background and information regarding the challenges that continue, in trying to improve relations
between the Somali population, and the police departments. The long term goal of the Police is to build
Equity and Diversity Minutes
January6, 2011
trust within the community. Don and other Tukwila officers have spent considerable time becoming
familiar with the businesses, the cultural/ethnicdifferences, and the challenges involved (while working,
in many instances, through an interpreter).
Joan shared information regarding a panel discussion that was held a few years ago, sponsore d by the
Seattle Housing Authority, which was very informative and provided a lot of good information regarding
cultural backgrounds and history.
Don offered his assistance in facilitating some type of community meeting or other discussion, if the
Commission decides to explore this further. The Commission members thanked Don for the
information, and discussion continued regarding how members might make a connection with the
Somali residents. The best opportunity might be our connections through the school district.
CITIZEN COMMENTS
None
OTHER
Joan presented copies of two letters she wrote in response to invitations to attend other diversity
events in the area. One event (Vietnamese Community of Seattle dinner) has already taken place and
the Korean American Day event is scheduled for Saturday, January 8, 2011. Joan has invited both
groups to attend future Equity and Diversity Commission meetings.
Joyce distributed a flyer regarding Citizenship Day, February 5, 2011. Commission members may want
to consider participating. One of our Council members, Verna Seal, will be working as a paralegal at the
event.
Meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m.
Next meeting: February 3, 2011