HomeMy Public PortalAbout2021-04-16 MinutesMinutes of Meeting
Commission on Human Relations
Friday, April 16, 2021
Due to COVID-19 and social distancing recommendations, the Commission on
Human Relations meeting was made available by using a Webex meeting.
ATTENDEES:
Commission members present:
Susan Cook-Williams, Missy Creed, Kimberly Woodruff, Frank Rycyk, Seth Bauman, Jane Barnes
Staff present:
Rebecca Lee
Others present:
Councilmembers Laura Ward and Mike Lester, Michael Shine – News Tribune, Pietro Vasques, Phil
Morion
The meeting came to order at 9:03 a.m. by Susan Cook-Williams. Frank Rycyk made a motion to approve
minutes, second by Kimberly Woodruff. Motion unanimously passed.
Susan Cook-Williams reports finances remain the same with no charges nor changes to report.
Frank Rycyk presented on Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, for the monthly Commissioner
Development Moment. This develops an empathy for the poor in the daily fasting without complaint. It
is important to be aware of this sacrifice and practice done every year by Muslims. Kimberly Woodruff
will present a development issue for the May meeting.
Public Comment on Agenda Items:
None
Old Business:
Coffee Conversations Update: Susan Cook-Williams updated the commission on this developing project.
The current format will be in-person, outside at McClung Park Pavilion. The format has been modified to
allow for more casual conversation on one named topic. The first event will be in May and the topic will
be Asian-American hate. This conversational group is intended to be informal and casual, with no expert
or specific answers. The focus for participation will be on listening to others and discussing thoughts and
ideas. The date and time is TBD.
Faith Leader Social Media Project: Susan Cook-Williams shared there have been no submissions on social
media to spotlight faith leaders in the community in the month of April. She encouraged all
commissioners to help spread the invitation to be featured.
June Speaker Series Event: The June Speaker Series Event will be held virtual and will be related to Pride
Month and the LGBTQ+ community. No specific topic nor speakers have been identified. Susan shared
Kimberly Woodruff and Jane Barnes will be working with her to plan this and others are encouraged to
help if they are available.
New Business:
Discrimination Complaints and Where to get help: Susan Cook-Williams shared information on the State
of Missouri-Department of Labor website, Commission on Human Rights with a wide range of materials
to support and assist individuals who may feel they have experienced discrimination. It can be found on
the website: labor.mo.gov. If individuals were to approach commissioners concerned about a specific
act of discrimination, this website is a resource to share for them to get additional information and help
if needed. Seth Bauman echoed support of the site stating it had adequate staff and resources to help
individuals navigate the process.
Survey: Susan Cook-Williams discussed a possible survey for citizens in Jefferson City to better
understand discrimination in Jefferson City. There seem to be limited spaces to address this and a survey
may reveal information to guide the Human Relations Commission on community education and
engagement. Seth Bauman offered feedback affirming a survey process, stating individuals may
experience discrimination that does not cross into a legal issue but offers opportunity for conversation
and interpersonal growth. Councilmember Mike Lester agreed there is a lack of diversity and little effort
to address it in area schools and other institutions. Discussion ensued about how to have proper
representation and how to craft the survey to address issues and hear voices in our community. Susan
Cook-Williams and Seth Bauman will work on this and welcome additional support of any interested
commissioners.
Public Comment:
None
Adjournment:
Frank Rycyk shared with the commission that he attended the Heartland Port Authority Meeting and
information was shared on an application for grants in a US-DOT “RAISE” program seeking projects that
aim for racial improvement. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:45 a.m. with a
motion by Frank Rycyk, second by Jane Barnes.
The next meeting is scheduled for May 21, 2021 at 9:00 a.m.