File #: 21-0303    Version: 1
Type: discussion Status: Filed
File created: 3/19/2021 In control: Social Justice & Equity Commission Founding Member Work Group
Agenda date: 4/1/2021 Final action: 4/1/2021
Title: Continued Planning of Community Conversations
Title
Continued Planning of Community Conversations

Recommended Action
Discussion only. No action needed.

Report
Issue:
Whether to continue planning Community Conversations.

Staff Contact:
Olivia Salazar de Breaux, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator, Human Resources, 360.753.8343

Presenter(s):
Olivia Salazar de Breaux, Equity and Inclusion Coordinator, Human Resources
Fernell Miller, Root of Us, LLC
Dr. Jen Self, Brick 13, LLC

Background and Analysis:
On November 2, Council approved a process to establish a Social Justice & Equity Advisory Commission (Commission), including that the process be led by a Founding Member Work Group (Work Group) made up of five community members representing marginalized populations, with an emphasis on Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.

The Work Group will host a series of Community Conversations to elevate the voices of marginalized community members, and use the input gathered to recommend to Council the new Commission's:
* make-up and terms;
* formal name (as "Social Justice & Equity Commission" is a Council-approved placeholder);
* scope of work; and
* first year work plan

At their January 21, 2021 meeting, the Work Group selected a team of two consultants, Fernell Miller and Dr. Jen Self to help support this body of work, including providing expertise, guidance, and support in designing and facilitating community conversation, analyzing and summarizing the input gathered, and formulating recommendations to guide the establishment of the Commission.

The purpose of this meeting is for the Work Group to continue planning an approach and timeline for the Community Conversation. The discussion will include determining the number of conversations, desired participants, and a proposed timeline.

Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
There is significant interest to address systemic racism and inequality. Input that staff and City Councilmembers are receiving from community members strongly supports a proc...

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