HomeMy Public PortalAbout11-17-2023 MinutesMinutes of Meeting
Commission on Human Relations
Friday, November 17,2023
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:
Lorraine Schofield, Kimberley Woodruff, JoDe Layton-Brinker, Frank Rycyk, Donna Cavitte, Jamie
Howard, Jane Barnes
Others present:
Councilmember Mike Lester, Gail Strope – city staff, Stephi Smith, Jefferson City News Tribune reporter
The meeting came to order at 9:02 a.m. by Kimberley Woodruff. Introductions of attendees were made
and the August 25, 2023 minutes were reviewed. Frank Rycyk made a motion to approve minutes,
second by Kim Woodruff, and motion unanimously passed.
New Business:
Commissioner Development Moment: Frank Rycyk presented on the Church of Religious Science. He
shared several resources and related book titles. This school of thought promotes mind over matter to
heal. The Church of Religious Science aims to create parallels among separate religions and promotes a
positive mental attitude to overcome ailments.
Speaker Series Event Topics: The commission is in unanimous agreement to resume these public
engagement events. The library seems to be a natural site to host the event to allow for collaboration.
Topics discussed included: disability awareness, substance use disorders, refugee and immigrant issues
and supports, and inclusion of LGBTQ+ in Jefferson City. Conversation ensued regarding potential details
for each topic. The commission decided the most effective approach would be to host two events in
2024. The topics were discussed and voted upon and it was decided the first Speaker Series Event will be
in the spring on substance use disorders. JoDe Layton-Brinker and Jane Barnes will organize this event.
The second event will be in the fall and will be on the topic of the LGBTQ+ population and their inclusion
in Jefferson City. JoDe Layton-Brinker and Jamie Howard will organize this event. Suggestions made
include booking the library well in advance as it hosts many events, considering offering childcare, and
hosting this on a weeknight to maximize attendance.
New Business: December meeting will include electing officers for the next year. This meeting will also
cover considerations for how to reintroduce the Human Relations Commission to the community. There
will be a panel on the unhoused community at First United Methodist Church on November 28, 2023 at
7 p.m. and is open to all.
Public Comment: None
Adjournment:
The next commission meeting will be offered in hybrid, with some members remaining virtual and some
in person at City Hall. There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 10 a.m.
The next meeting is scheduled for December 15, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.