HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-21-2015 Human Rights CommissionAGENDA
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
HELLING CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL
April 21, 2015
5:30 P.M.
1. Call Meeting to Order/ Roll Call
2. Approval of Minutes March 17, 2015 & April 1, 2015
3. Public Comment of Items Not on the Agenda
4. New Business:
a. Housing & Building Inspection Presentation (Laverman)
b. Vendor Request from United Action for Youth LGBTQ Summit (May 9) (Bowers)
c. Rename and Present the Lifetime Achievement Award for the Human Rights
Breakfast 2015 (October 28) (Bowers)
d. Creating a Disability Advocate Award for the Annual Johnson County Americans
with Disabilities Celebration (July 25) (Olmstead)
e. Invitation to Partner on Immigration Film Screening of ABRAZOS (April 29)
(Olmstead)
f. Regular Meeting Start Time Change to 5:30
g. Sponsorship Request One Community, One Book 2015 (Bowers)
5. Old Business:
a. Building a Human Rights Community (Olmstead, Hanrahan)
b. Draft Funding Request Form for FY 16 (Bowers)
c. Commission Action Plan 2015
i. Education Programming Update (Hart)
ii. Education Outreach Update (Ghoneim)
iii. Community Outreach (Hanrahan)
6. Upcoming Events/Programs:
a. Fair Lending (April 30)
b. Youth Awards (May 13)
i. Youth Ally Subcommittee (Townsend, Peirce -Thomas, Retish)
ii. Designation of Roles for Ceremony
c. Iowa City Pride (June 20) (Coulter, Hart, Pierce -Thomas)
d. Human Rights Awards Breakfast (October 28)
i. Speaker
7. Reports:
a. Making Iowa City a Human Rights City (Olmstead)
b. Buildings Accessibility Update (Bowers)
c. Open Meetings and the Law Training (April 1)
d. Fair Housing Proclamation (April 7)
e. Fair Housing Training (April 21)
f. Juneteenth Subcommittee (June 27)
g. JobNolunteer Fair (Retish)
i. Construction & Labor Trades Job Fair (May 26)
h. Education Subcommittee (Retish, Olmstead, Coulter)
i. Building Communities Subcommittee (Townsend)
j. University of Iowa Center for Human Rights Board (Ghoneim, Olmstead)
k. Racial Equity & Diversity Initiative (Bowers)
1. Commission
m. Staff
i. Future Commission Meeting Locations
1. July (Iowa City Airport), August (Iowa City Airport), September
(Eastside Recycling Center), October (Eastside Recycling Center),
November (Eastside Recycling Center), December (Eastside
Recycling Center) .
8. Set Next Regular Meeting Date: May 19 at 6:00 pm
9. Adjourn
The Human Rights Commission meetings follow the Iowa City Community School District
closings for inclement weather except for early dismissals for heat.
Minutes Preliminary
Human Rights Commission
March 17, 2015 — 6 PM
Helling Conference Room
Members Present: Orville Townsend Sr, Kim Hanrahan, Joe D. Coulter, Stella Hart, Paul
Retish, Edie Pierce -Thomas.
Members Not Present: Harry Olmstead, Ali Ahmed, Shams Ghoneim.
Others Present: Andrea Cohen, Henri Harper.
Staff Present: Stefanie Bowers.
Recommendations to Council: No.
Call to Order:
Coulter called the meeting to order at 18:00.
Consideration of the Minutes from the February 17, 2015 Meeting Date:
Motion Pierce -Thomas, seconded by Townsend. Motion passed 6-0.
New Business
Making Iowa City a Human Rights City
Cohen discussed the initiative of making Iowa City a human rights city. The initiative was started almost
30 years ago in New York and currently cities in South America and Africa have been designated as
human rights cities. Making Iowa City a human rights city is a long term process of which the largest part
is education. There is a steering committee of Iowa City residents who are leading this effort. The
committee is currently looking for partnerships with local schools, community & religious organizations
and civic boards. There is no action requested of the Commission at this time. Cohen noted that this
initiative is in the beginning stages and she will continue to keep the Commission up to date as to status.
She encouraged the Commission to visit www.pdhre.org for more detailed information. It stands for the
People's Movement for Human Rights Education. It is a site dedicated to human rights learning for
social and economic transformation.
Sponsorship Request the Politics oflmmigration
The Commission declined to fund this program not because of interest but due to the selected location of
the program which is the Old Brick. The Old Brick is not wheelchair accessible.
Sponsorship Request Iowa City GLBTQ Pride
The Commission chose to participate in Iowa City Pride. Coulter, Pierce -Thomas and Hart have agreed to
staff the table at the event. The vender fee is $50.
Motion Hart, seconded by Pierce -Thomas. Motion passed 6-0.
Old Business
Funding Request from Ko Nec Cultural Diversity Awareness Program
Harper was present to answer questions the Commission had about the request for sponsorship which was
denied at the February 17 meeting date. Harper said that the trip is planned for 20 students and that he is
asking the Commission to invest as opposed to sponsor a youth to go on the trip. Harper also spoke on
how the trip has motivated and influenced the youth in this community who have participated in the trip
as part of the Fas Trac program. The Commission voted to contribute $250.
Motion Relish, seconded by Hanrahan. Motion passed 5-1. (Townsend in the negative).
Funding Request Form
Commissioners requested a few questions be switched around and also to add the current funding policy
to the form. Commissioners also asked that questions be revised in hopes of ascertaining the quantitative
effects a program or activity will have on the Iowa City community.
Commission Action Plan
Ghoneim has a tentative date to do a presentation on the Commission (Who we are, What we do) to the
Consultation of Religious Communities in June.
Hanrahan discussed her vision for the listening posts which includes informal posts initially with the posts
expanding over time into more detail topics and areas. The posts would become more detail oriented after
Commissioners have had an opportunity to receive feedback from the community as to areas of interest.
Hart recently attended an affordable housing forum and believes that the Human Rights Office Know
Your Rights brochures which are available in Arabic, Mandarin and Spanish need to be filtered
throughout the community. Hart also discussed concerns mentioned at the forum such as who to contact if
you feel you have been discriminated against or who to contact if you have problems with a landlord.
Open Meetings and the Law Training
The Commission will receive training on open meetings and the law on April 1.
Fair Housing Proclamation
The Iowa City Area Association of Realtors in collaboration with Commission staff submitted a
proclamation for the Mayor's consideration for April in honor of fair housing month.
Fair Lending Training
Commission staff is sponsoring a fair lending training on April 30 for area bankers/lenders.
Youth Awards
Townsend, Retish and Pierce -Thomas will serve on the subcommittee to select the youth ally winner for
2015.
(Hart left meeting)
Reports
Soul Food
Hanrahan attended this event and reported that there were over 100 individuals present at the dinner. She
enjoyed the event and believes that community events like this are good for Commissioners to attend to
hold informal listening posts with individuals.
Juneteenth
Bowers reported (on behalf of Hart) that an essay and visual art contest will be sponsored by the
Commission in celebration of the 150th Anniversary of Juneteenth. The details of the contest are still
being ironed out but it will be open to all youth in the Johnson County area.
Volunteer Fair for Retired Persons
Retish is trying to locate and connect with community partners to assist in creating a volunteer fair for
retired persons.
Education Subcommittee
The Iowa City Community School District (ICCSD) Equity Committee will be meeting in the near future
and Equity Director Botchway will be presenting proposals on how to increase workforce equity within
the ICCSD at the meeting.
Building Communities
No report.
University oflowa Center for Human Rights Board
Retish reported that the Center is currently deciding whether to have more intellectual based programing
or do programming that is more community focused.
Racial Equity & Diversity Initiative
Bowers discussed the racial equity and diversity initiative resolution passed by the City Council in
February.
Coulter and Townsend reported on their recent participation in the City staff roundtables and noted that
the roundtables will be held monthly. Townsend and Coulter both hope that the roundtables facilitate
better communication and allow City staff to better connect with the community.
Commission
Pierce -Thomas recently became a grandmother and is enjoying the role.
Retish would like the Commission to discuss the St. Ambrose Report (Disproportionate Minority Contact
Study) in the near future but would like each Commissioner to read the report prior to holding a
discussion. Bowers added that the link to the report and a link to the presentation by Dr. Barnum done last
June are available on the City's website on the main page for the Police Department.
Hamahan recently was able to meet and speak with Dr. Barnum (author of St. Ambrose report) and was
able to discuss the report with him one on one. She encouraged other Commissioners to make contact
with Dr. Barnum.
Staff
Bowers spoke to University of Iowa students in an introductory course on Human Rights and attended a
White Privilege training with Dr. Eddie Moore Jr.
Adjournment: 20:17.
Next Regular Meeting — April 21, 2015 at 6:00 pm.
Human Rights Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2014/2015
eetin Date
NAME
TERM
EXP.
4/29/
14
5/20/
14
6/17/
14
7/15/
14
8/19/
14
9/16/
14
10/2/
14
10/21/
14
11/18
14
12/15
14
1/20
15
2/17
15
3/17/
15
Edie Pierce-
Thomas
1/1/2016
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
_
_
X
O/E
X
Joe D. Coulter
1/1/2016
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Harry
Olmstead
1/l/2016
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
Paul Retish
1/1/2017
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
Ali Ahmed
1/l2017
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
O
X
O/E
Orville
Townsend, Sr.
1/12017
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Kim
Hanrahan
1/12018
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Shama
Ghoneim
1/12018
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
Stella Hart
1/12018
-
-
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
-- = No longer a member
R = Resignation
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Minutes
Human Rights Commission
April 1, 2015 — 5 PM
Helling Conference Room
Preliminary
Members Present: Orville Townsend Sr, Kim Harahan, Joe D. Coulter, Stella Hart, Paul
Retish, Edie Pierce -Thomas, Harry Olmstead, Ali Ahmed, Shams
Ghoneim.
Others Present: Jeff Schott.
Staff Present: Stefanie Bowers.
Recommendations to Council: No.
Call to Order:
Coulter called the meeting to order at 17:01. (Not present Ghoneim, Harahan, Ahmed).
Jeff Schott presented to the Commission on Open Meetings and the Law. The presentation included a
discussion of the following:
Executive closed session, violations of the open meeting law, public records law, gender balance law,
confidential records, Iowa Public Information Board, violations of the public record law, gift law,
restricted donors, conflict of interest law, duties & responsibilities of board members, policy program
evaluation, community connection, six strategies to improve performance, board improvement, team
work, board orientation, decision making, act strategically.
Hanrahan present 17:05,
Ghoneim present 17:08.
Ahmed present 17:40.
Townsend left 18:35.
Pierce -Thomas left 18:45.
Adjournment: 18:59.
Next Regular Meeting — April 21, 2015 at 6:00 pm.
Human Rights Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2014/2015
(M..e.o nn*.i
NAME
TERM
EXP.
5/20/
14
6/17/
14
7/15/
14
8/19/
14
4/16/
14
10/2/
14
10/21/
14
11/18/
14
12/15/
14
1/20/
15
2/17/
15
3/17/
1 15
4/1/
15
Edie Pierce-
Thomas
I/l/2016
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
X
O/E
X
X
Joe D. Coulter
1/l/2016
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Harry
Olmstead
I/l/2016
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
Paul Retish
I/l/2017
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
Ali Ahmed
1/12017
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
O
X
O/E
X
Orville
Townsend, Sr.
1/12017
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Kim
Hanrahan
I/l/2018
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Shams
Ghoneim
1/l/2018
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
Stella Hart
1/12018
-
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E= Absent/Excused
NM= No meeting
— = No longer a member
R = Resignation
BOWCIS
5
From:
Stefanie Bowers
Sent:
Monday, March 30, 2015 11:07 AM
To:
Stefanie Bowers
Subject:
FW: Disability Advocate Award
----Original Message -----
From: Harry Olmstead [mailto:HarryO3@aol.com]
Sent: Saturday, March 28, 2015 6:38 PM
To: Stefanie Bowers
Subject: Disability Advocate Award
Dear Commissioners: A friend and advocate in that of Terry Cunningham died recently. Terry served
on many boards in Iowa and Iowa City. I hope that I can have your support passing the following
motion at the Human Rights Commission meeting on April 21. 1 move for the Iowa City Human Rights
Commission develop a yearly award for a person who has a disability and has made significant
contributions in Iowa City. I recommend that we name this award after Terry Cunningham and that it
be presented at the City-wide ADA Celebration which will be July 25 on the ped mall.
Terry Cunningham was a disabilities advocate. Terry served on the Olmstead Task Force, Terry
served on the Iowa State Independent Living Council, been a board member on Johnson County
Mental Health and Disabilities Council, has been President and Board member of
Access21ndependece, Terry also served on the Johnson County Para -transit Advisory Board,
member of the Johnson County Task Force on aging, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of
UpTown Bills, served on the Board of Directors for PATV even hosting and producing a weekly show
about issues that persons with disabilities would want to know, Terry also served on the Extend a
Dream Foundation Board. In 2012 he was awarded the Hero Award by the Association of Retarded
Citizens of SE Iowa. He has been instrumental in the yearly ADA Celebration in Iowa City.
I hope that you would agree with me that this is an award whose time has come in Iowa City. I ask for
your support and vote to make this award a reality.
Truly,
Harry Olmstead
COPY
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Dr. Michelle Farrell franthe Unhanally of LivOrpool will discuss Tortura in the 21s"CenturyUberal Democracy in t nee
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Thursday, Apt 9 at 3:30 pm. Ci 31 Pomerantz Center, University or loft loft Ciy
Monday. April 13 at330 p.m., 405 Stuart Hell, Coe College, Cedar Rapids
Fame lectures are sponsored by the UniversityOf Iowa tenter for Human Rlgihts.
Since the turn of the century, loth" has revealed Itself as a more vexing haus than the drafters of the Univtrsel
Declaration of Hunan Rlgh<S would ever have imagined in 1946. Then, the inclusion of an abso ute, unqualified ban on
wraae was uncontroversial. The prohibition on torture is universal. States deny Its practice it is generally met with
coniden9914 ,Yet over the past 14years, In the doted States and In Europe,dlajusrfiabilltyofthe use oftorture in
certain Rmited dramstsnces has become a legitimate topic of debate. How did this happen? what are the Implications?
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to ask some dgOwkquesdaas about the practice of torture and the practitioners of re, What is torture?NTatarethe
Inks between the purposes Oftortore and its Practice? Now do liberal democratic states facilitatehan essentaW Illiberal
and Illegal prtmce?This presentation condudest hat the practice of torture is revealing, not of Information but of the very
nature of contemporary some pourer.
Michelle Farrell is a lecturer in law at the School of Law and Social Justice, University of Liverpool. Her research Interests
are in moral, political and critical theory on human rights and In ndividual rights and the constitutional MWn the hate
Of conflict, political violence and states of emarganty. At Liverpool, Farrell teaches Securtty. Conflict and the Law, amortgst
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April Agenda
Packet
Information
Policy for Funding Request to Commission
The Iowa City Human Rights Commission can donate funds to organizations and agencies that
collaborate with the Iowa City Human Rights Commission in providing such things as organizing,
planning and facilitating educational public forums or programs and activities designed to eliminate
racial, religious, cultural and other intergroup tensions including but not limited to sex, color, creed,
disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, age and national origin.
Agenda Item 4b
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for llioluth)c P K
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To Whom it May Concern:
3/16/2015
.•.
Lindsey Anne Piper
United Action for Youth
410 Iowa Avenue
Iowa City, IA 52240
Iowa City Human Rights Commission
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, IA 52241
United Action for Youth is committed to empowering youth in our community. That is why we
are excited to organize the first ever Summit for LGBTQ Youth on Saturday May 96* 2015 from
2 pm to 6 pm. This summit will be a celebration of LGBTQ youth, their families and friends in
the Iowa City community, and it will take place at the Youth Center on 355 Iowa Avenue. Our
vision for this event is to provide a space for youth and families to mingle as well as learn about
the resources in the community.
We invite you to participate in this event during the closing gallery walk by hosting a table tent
with information on what your organization offers for this community. You may also
participate by submitting information to be dispersed at the event if you are unable to attend.
Please let us know if you are interested in joining by April 101h so that we may make
accommodations. We look forward to your response.
Regards,
Lindsey Anne Piper
Practicum Student
United Action for Youth
lndsey.piper@unitedactionforyouth.org
(402)660-4072
■ United Action for Youth ■ 410 Iowa Avenue ■ P.O. Box 892 ■ Iowa City, Iowa 52244 ■
April 3, 2015
Dear Commissioners,
My name is Lindsey Piper and I am a practicum student at United Action for Youth. I
am writing to ask if you would be interested in co -sponsoring an upcoming event
presented by United Action for Youth. On Saturday, May 9th we will be hosting a
'LGBTQA Youth Summit" which will be an educational opportunity for LGBTQA
,youth and their families as a well as a celebration of their lives. We will be hosting
this event at the United Action for Youth, Youth Center with parental breakout
sessions at the Unitarian Universalist Church. There will be panel discussions
covering a variety of topics such as coming out stories, levels of community support
and acceptance and relationship issues. There will also be round table discussions
covering varying aspects of being a LGBTQA youth and how families can be
supportive. Given the responses that we have gotten thus far there will be multi -
generational and diverse populations in attendance.
The event will close with a gallery walk using art pieces that LGBTQA youth have
contributed, opportunities to socialize with GLBTQA youth and their families and
LGBTQA community members. A PFLAG representative from the Cedar Rapids
PFLAG chapter has been invited to share information on the possibility of
developing a chapter in the Iowa City area.
This event will be free to the public. We are asking for $125.00 to buy supportive
materials and refreshments for the closing ceremony. If you have questions feel free
to contact me at the number listed below.
T ank you for ur consideration,
Lindsey P�
United Action for Youth
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COPY
Agenda Item 4c
To: Joe D. Coulter, Chair
Iowa City Humans Rights Commission
410 Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
APPLICATION
REQUESTS TO THE IOWA CITY HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISION `TO ESTABLISH A
LIFETIME ACHIEVMENT AWARD IN THE NAME OF HEATHER L. SHANK AND TO
HAVE HEATHER BE THE FIRST RECIPIENT OF THAT AWARD.
Persons presently residing in Iowa City, and persons who
previously resided in Iowa City, submit an application to the
Human Rights Commission to name a lifetime achievement award
after Heather L. Shank, and request that the commission
designate Heather as the first recipient of the newly -named
award.
Heather served as Human Rights Coordinator for the City of Iowa
City from August 29, 1994 to December 1, 2005. This application
asks that Heather be recognized for her compassionate approach
to the protection of human rights and for the support Heather
provided anyone in the Iowa City Community who faced ongoing
discriminatory practices. Heather implemented policies to
prevent discrimination in the areas of sexual orientation and
gender identity. Iowa City became a model for other communities
that sought films or programs on human rights issues.
Dale Hellir i.
19 Charles Drive
Iowa City, IA
(319-351-6237)
COPY
STATEMENT BY JERRY NIXON
The undersigned, Jerry Nixon, a Government Programmer, City
of Iowa City, Cable Television Division, requests that the Human
Rights Commission name a lifetime achievement award after
Heather L. Shank, and requests that the commission designate
Heather as the first recipient of the award.
My tenure as an Iowa City employee coincided with Heather
Shank's tenure as the coordinator for the Iowa City Human Rights
Commission. As part of Heather's advocacy for human rights,
Heather frequently asked me to participate in producing a film
on human rights topics. Heather and I saw our job as giving a
voice to the voiceless.
Having observed Heather's human rights advocacy firsthand,
I became amazed at the comprehensiveness of her effort in safe-
guarding human rights. Heather would approach me and say,
"Let's do something," and from that moment forward a film
project would be developed to advance a human right concern, or
to arrange for a public forum to be taped.
I wish to emphasize Heather's work on two projects that
provided protection to Iowa City residents from discrimination,
and that served as models for other communities located inside
and outside the State of Iowa. Heather, and members of the
Human Rights Commission with whom she worked, addressed
discrimination in the areas of sexual orientation and gender
identity, and also challenged the discriminatory practice of
bullying:
(1) Finding no film on gender identity, Heather, in
coordination with members of the commission, decided to
Produce a film on their own about persons who had changed
their gender identity. The film revealed aspects of
discrimination that these individuals faced. A change in
gender identity often lacked the understanding of others,
including the understanding of family and friends.
Officials from many cities inside and outside Iowa
requested copies of the transgender film from Heather.
Mayor Koch, New York City, asked for a copy of the Iowa
1
COPY
City ordinance that added gender identity as a protected
class. Mayor Koch also asked for a copy of the film
produced on gender identity. The film was offered to him
and the film was shown at a transgender festival in New
York City. The Human Rights Division, City of San
Francisco, received a copy of the film produced in Iowa
City, and the film became an educational tool.
(2) During Heather's tenure as coordinator for the Human
Rights Commission from August 1994 to December 2005, 1
worked with Heather and commission members to establish
Public forums and talks on bullying. Initiatives were
undertaken to make the public aware of bullying in Iowa
Schools. In 2004, the Iowa City Human Rights Commission
had a task force to implement a program entitled: "Making
Our Schools Safe for GLBT Youth." This anti -bullying
program involved the participation of teachers and
students. A need for state legislation with anti -bullying
curricula was felt to be essential, and specifically in
the area of GLBT youth.
A public forum on bullying was held at the Iowa City
Recreation Center. Adults of various ages discussed the
affect of bullying on them that occurred in their youth.
Having endured the adverse impact of bullying in school,
adults described a latent affect of having been bullied:
how difficult it was to deal with the utter senselessness
of being a victim. During the 1990's, Heather and
members of the Human Rights Commission, initiated
programs to challenge and to stop bullying.
Heather's tenure as coordinator concluded in 2005. Now,
Governor Branstad and members of the Iowa Legislature are
Poised to enact an anti -bullying statute. When Governor
Branstad convened a second summit for the prevention of
bullying in 2013, the Governor encouraged schools and
communities to continue to build momentum to stop
bullying. The community of Iowa City initiated programs
long before the State of Iowa will have passed
legislation statewide. Now before the Iowa Legislature
and the Governor in the year 2015 is the opportunity to
pass the Bully -Free Iowa Act of 2015.
E
COPY
My friend, Heather Shank, performed extraordinary service
for the City of Iowa City, and her efforts and those of
the commission have served as a model on how to address
discriminatory practices. Heather Shank's outstanding
work as the coordinator for the Human Rights Commission
should be acknowledged.
government Programmer
/City of Iowa City
Cable Television Division
3
COPY
To: Joe D. Coulter, Chair
From: Joyce Carman (338-4071)
Re: Summaries of information submitted by Dorothy Paul, Osha Gray Davidson, Mary Larew re "Heather
Shank Award" nomination to be submitted to City of Iowa City Human Rights Commission
Osha Grav Davidson
It is a pleasure and an honor to write in support of the City of Iowa City
awarding Heather Shank the award. I
met Heather when I was appointed to the Iowa City Human Rights Commission in
1996 and I was immediately impressed by her obvious professionalism and quick
intelligence. Over time, I saw qualities that made Heather much more than simply
a smart and competent worker. Chief among these was Heather's passionate and
unflagging devotion to the spirit, and not just the letter, of the laws meant to
protect the fundamental human rights of every citizen. I came to see Heather as
the embodiment of what I loved best about Iowa City -a place always struggling
to be fairer, more just, more welcoming, more compassionate, and more humane.
If we sometimes fell short of those qualities (as all places inevitably do) it wasn't
for any lack on Heather's part. in the years I had the pleasure of knowing her,
Heather always fought the good fight on behalf of all of us. She was —and
remains —an inspiration to me. Any recognition or honor granted her is a small
repayment for the debt we owe Heather Shank for her years of service protecting
our human rights.
Dorothy Paul (Served as a Human Rights Commissioner (1989-1995) and as Chair
of the Commission (1992-93)
_When Heather shank became Chair of the Iowa City Human Rights Commission I
saw an immediate change in the operation of the Commission. Cases were
handled with more speed, and resolution (of those cases) happened earlier. More
involvement and participation of the work of the Commission was expected of
members elected to the Commission. Heather shank's leadership was outstanding
COPY
and provided each of us a fine example of how our "good work" could provide the
City of Iowa City a more effective Commission. Shank also explored every
opportunity to provide public visibilityfor the Commission and she encouraged us
to follow her example. I also found that the Commission was cosponsoring more
local human rights events, which provided the Commission not only more outside
favorable publicity but also benefitted the City of Iowa City. I recommend Heather
Shankfor
(name of award) without reservation.
Mary Larew
Heather Shank was the first person I met when I was appointed to serve on the
Iowa City Human Rights Commission, Heather was at all times friendly, open to
questions that might seem trivial, and she pursued lines of inquiry to the end.
Heather led the meetings with skill and had many interesting "side bar" comments
to make. 1 am sure Heather clarified hundreds of issues for the many people on
the Commission and she saw that fair and equitable decisions were made.
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Stefanie Bowers
From:
Janelle Rettig <jrettig@coJohnson.ia.us>
Sent:
Wednesday, April 08, 2015 8:28 AM
To:
Stefanie Bowers
Cc:
Robin Butler;'Mkinnamon@mchsi.com'
Subject:
A Heather Shank Award
To the Human Rights Commission:
I'm writing in support of naming an Iowa City Human Rights Award in honor of Heather Shank. Heather Shank is an
extraordinary person that not only supports human rights, she embraces it and lives it. I first got to know Heather when
she researched, advocated and embraced adding gender identity to the Iowa City ordinance. Heather could have taken
the easy way out and made gender identity included in the definition of sexual orientation. But knowing that would be
wrong, she embraced a separate class of protections. She later went on to lead a public education campaign with video
interviews.
I have twice personally dealt with Heather when she went above her duties to help people being harassed by taking
them to a trusted law enforcement officer and standing with us. Our friend received an extortion letter threatening to
out him and Heather arranged for an appointment with law enforcement and sat with him while he told his heart
wrenching story. Later when my spouse and I started advocating for marriage equality, we received our own
threats. Heather not only listened to us, but she truly cared and once again assisted us in our dealings with law
enforcement. It wasn't always easy for LGBT people to see police as allies, but Heather made that happen for us
personally and many other people.
I simply can't state strongly enough, how meaningful it would be to have an Iowa City Human Rights Award named after
Heather Shank. Her compassion and her commitment are exactly why the Iowa City Human Rights celebration
exists. We are lucky to have so many wonderful human rights advocates in our city, Heather Shank was and is an
extraordinary leader and advocate long before it was cool.
Thank you for your consideration,
Janelle
Janelle Rettig
Johnson County Supervisor
913 S Dubuque St
Iowa City, IA 52240
319-356-6000 office
319-330-0916 cell
irettig@co.iohnson.ia.us
www.'ohnson-county.com
Meeting agendas, materials, minutes and streaming video/audio: http://'ohnsoncountvia.igm2.com
Stefanie Bowers
i
From: Stefanie Bowers
Sent: Monday, March 30, 2015 11:07 AM
To: Stefanie Bowers
Subject: FW: Disability Advocate Award
-----Original Message ----
From: Harry Olmstead [mailto:HarryO3@aol.com]
Sent: Saturday, March 28, 2015 6:38 PM
To: Stefanie Bowers
Subject: Disability Advocate Award
Agenda Item 4d
Dear Commissioners: A friend and advocate in that of Terry Cunningham died recently. Terry served
on many boards in Iowa and Iowa City. I hope that I can have your support passing the following
motion at the Human Rights Commission meeting on April 21. 1 move for the Iowa City Human Rights
Commission develop a yearly award for a person who has a disability and has made significant
contributions in Iowa City. I recommend that we name this award after Terry Cunningham and that it
be presented at the City-wide ADA Celebration which will be July 25 on the ped mall.
Terry Cunningham was a disabilities advocate. Terry served on the Olmstead Task Force, Terry
served on the Iowa State Independent Living Council, been a board member on Johnson County
Mental Health and Disabilities Council, has been President and Board member of
Access2lndependece, Terry also served on the Johnson County Para -transit Advisory Board,
member of the Johnson County Task Force on aging, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of
UpTown Bills, served on the Board of Directors for PATV even hosting and producing a weekly show
about issues that persons with disabilities would want to know, Terry also served on the Extend a
Dream Foundation Board. In 2012 he was awarded the Hero Award by the Association of Retarded
Citizens of SE Iowa. He has been instrumental in the yearly ADA Celebration in Iowa City.
I hope that you would agree with me that this is an award whose time has come in Iowa City. I ask for
your support and vote to make this award a reality.
Truly,
Harry Olmstead
Terry M. Cunningham, 62, of Iowa City, died peacefully with loved ones at his side, Thursday,
March 19th at the University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City.
A celebration of Terry's life will be held at one of his favorite places, Uptown Bill's on Saturday,
March 28th at 2:30 p.m. Memorials in his name maybe directed to Extend the Dream
Foundation.
Terry M. Cunningham was born March 14, 1953 in Mason City, Iowa; son of Larry and Mariann
(Deming) Cunningham. While still in high school, Terry was involved in an accident that would
leave him with quadriplegia which would alter the course of his life. He earned his BA from
Southwest State University in Marshall, Minnesota and went onto earn a Master's of Science in
Rehabilitation from Drake University.
With his education he would put himself in a capacity to help many others affected by physical
or mental disability serving at Goodwill from 1978 through 1986 in various roles, most notably
as VP/Director of Work Resources, VP/Director of Human Resources, Director of
Rehabilitation/Personnel and Director of Personnel Placement. Since 2003, Terry was employed
as a Program Coordinator for the University of Iowa in the Center for Disabilities and
Development. He had also been serving actively on many boards including PATV CH. 13,
Extend the Dream Foundation, Johnson Co. Task Force on Aging, Iowa Independent Living
Council as well as numerous other current and former affiliations. Terry was awarded
Handicapped Iowa of the Year in 1987 and was an ARC of SE Iowa Hall of Fame Inductee in
2011.
Terry was recognized statewide as a passionate advocate for the rights of people with disabilities,
including their right to live and work in the community of their choice, to not be institutionalized
against their will, and for compliance with the Federal Americans with Disabilities Act.
Ter y's family includes his siblings, Sharon Foulk (Harold) of Le Grand, Guy Cunningham
(Patricia Wengert) of Des Moines, Todd Cunningham of Des Moines and Jay Cunningham
(Beth) of New Kent, VA; brothers-in-law, Mike Ellis of Marshalltown and Roger Freiboth of Le
Grand; sister-in-law, Christi Cox of Des Moines and very dear friend, Starla Elsberry who had
helped Tent' enjoy life, gave him endless love and special care during his illness. Terry adored
his many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Casey Cunningham and sisters, Cristin
Freiboth and Julie Ellis.
Agenda Item 4e
Slefanie Bowers
From:
Clark -Bennett, Robin <robin-clark-bennett@uiowa.edu>
Sent:
Tuesday, April 07, 2015 3:55 PM
To:
Stefanie Bowers
Cc:
harryo3@aol.com
Subject:
Invitation to Partner on Immigration Film Screening
Attachments:
ABRAZOS film screening flyer.pdf
Dear Ms. Bowers,
I write to invite the Iowa City Human Rights Commission to co-sponsor an upcoming screening of the
immigration documentary ABRAZOS, featuring an introduction and Q&A session by internationally -acclaimed
director Luis Argueta. The screening will be held at 7:00pm on April 29th in Shambaugh Auditorium, within
the University of Iowa main library. I am attaching a flyer for the event.
ABRAZOS tells the story of families separated by a broken immigration system, and the journey of a group of
U.S. citizen children who travel from Minnesota to Guatemala to find the grandparents they've never known.
An estimated 1 I million undocumented immigrants in the U.S. live with the daily fear that they will be deported
and separated from their children and family members in this country; at the same time, they are also unable
travel to their countries of origin to reunite with parents, grandparents, and children who they were unable to
bring with them. Many live in mixed -status families, and have U.S. citizen children who have only known this
country as their home.
The film is timely for our community and our nation. It highlights the stories of Midwestern people whose lives
hang in the balance in contemporary immigration debates. The national debate continues to rage over the future
of immigration reform and President Obama's recent Executive Order, which granted temporary relief from
deportation to certain groups, including many parents of U.S. citizen children like those featured in this film.
Meanwhile, in Iowa City, the recent detention and deportation of Pastor Max Villatoro prompted action by
hundreds of people locally and over 40,000 supporters across the country who petitioned the government in a
powerful but unsuccessful effort to stop his deportation and allow him to stay with his wife and four U.S.
citizen children.
Director Luis Argueta is well-known to Iowans; his first film abUSed: The Postville Raid documented the story.
of the 2008 raid at Agriprocessor's Inc in Postville, IA. He is an award -winning filmmaker who has worked as a
commercial director, lecturer, and teacher in the United States, Europe, and throughout the Americas. He has
directed and produced several short and feature films, including The Silence of Neto for which he received
several international awards. In April 2009, the British newspaper The Guardian, listed Mr. Argueta as one of
Guatemala's National Living Icons, alongside Nobel Prize Laureate Rigoberta Menchu and Singer/Songwriter
Ricardo Aijona.
The ABRAZOS screening is currently co -sponsored by the University of Iowa Labor Center, the UI Center for
Human Rights, the UI Department of History, the Center for Worker Justice of Eastern Iowa, and Culture
Friendly Consulting, LLC. We are seeking additional organizational partners who can collaborate on this event
by assisting with publicity and/or funding (it costs $1500 + travel and lodging expenses to bring the director, so
even $100 helps).
Thank you for considering this request, and for the important work you do in our community. Don't hesitate to
contact me with any questions or suggestions you may have.
In Unity,
Robin Clark -Bennett
Labor Educator
University of Iowa Labor Center
100 BioVentures Center, Rm W 13 0
Iowa City, Iowa 52242-5000
319-335-4891
A JOURNEY IN SEARCH OF ONE'S ID
A story of families separated by a broken
immigration system, and the journey of children
to find the grandparents they've never known -
from the director ofabUSed: the Postville Raid.
Film Screening & Discussion
with Director Luis Argueta
Wed. April 29, 7pm
Shambaugh Auditorium
(University Main Library, 125 W. Washington)
Free and open to the public.
w
Screening sponsored by UI Labor Center, UI Center for Human Rights, UI Department of History, and Culture Friendly Consulting, I.I.C.
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa sponsored events.
If you require special accommodations to participate, please call 335-4144.
Agenda Item 4g
L THE UluivEt:smroebm
CENTER FOR
HUMAN RIGHTS
April 14, 2015
Dear Members of the Human Rights Commission:
The UI Center for Human Rights (UICHR) would like to submit a request for support for the 2015
One Community, One Book program. This program began in 2001 and over the years has
benefited greatly from the assistance and partnership with the Human Rights Commission.
This year may be our one of our most important events. We are bringing to Iowa City attorney
Bryan Stevenson, author of Just Mercy: a Story of Justice and Redemption. Mr. Stevenson
started a non-profit, the Equal Justice Initiative in Montgomery, Alabama, soon after finishing
law school. EJI focuses on four areas: race and poverty; children in prison; mass incarceration;
and death penalty. Just Mercy touches on all of these areas but particularly describes one death
penalty case, that of Walter McMillian who was on death row for six years for a crime he did
not commit. Although many witnesses could place him at his home at the time of the homicide
he allegedly committed, he was convicted and sentenced to death. Mr. McMillian was
eventually exonerated through Bryan Stevenson's efforts. Mr. Stevenson has written a
compelling story about resolving this case and all the social and political problems that made it
go wrong.
We have selected this book for its various human rights and social justice issues, some of which
can be found on a local level. We partnered with the UNESCO City of Literature, the Geneva
Campus Ministry and Prairie Lights in our formal request to bring Mr. Stevenson to Iowa City.
We are also working with several departments at the University of Iowa who will be using this
book in classes, with the various regional public libraries, the UIHC Patients Library and area
book clubs. There will be a number of book discussions and a film screening to highlight other
films related to themes in the book.
Additionally, we are working with the Iowa City Community Schools to use the book in the high
schools. They will use a curriculum written by Andrea Cohen to support this book. The schools
are also planning a mock trial.
Our formal invitation was sent less than two weeks ago proposing one event to include all the
partners we knew of who want Mr. Stevenson to come to Iowa City. We described the various
planned activities as of now. Last week we received notice that he has accepted our invitation.
The contract is currently under review in the UI Accounting Office.
Our plan as we it stands right now, with possible changes as the date approaches:
College of Law Office: 320 Melrose Avenue Iowa City, Iowa 52242
Central Campus Office: 1120 University Capitol Centre Iowa City, Iowa 52242
Tel 319-335-3900 Fax 319-335-1340 www.ulchr.org
Sunday, October 4, 2015--Bryan Stevenson will speak in the early afternoon as
part of One Community, One Book and the Iowa City Book Festival. There will
also be a dinner with donors. Location of his talk has not yet been determined --
we have asked for the Englert Theatre and await a response. The Englert Theatre
is accessible, as are possible campus facilities that could be used as backups in
the event the Englert will not be available on that date and time. UI always asks
that people who need accommodations to attend events contact us so that
arrangements can be made and we will, of course, do that.
• Funders so far will include City of Literature, UICHR/College of Law, Geneva
Campus Ministry; possibly several UI Departments; possibly some local law firms.
We will write a small grant for additional funding as well, due in mid -May.
Letters will go out soon to libraries, banks, and community groups asking for
donations if possible but also assistance with promotion and publicity for this
event.
• This event is certainly a Community Event but could also bean Arts & Culture
event.
• We see this as a regional event and hope that there will be some promotion and
publicity in other Iowa cities for this great opportunity to hear Bryan Stevenson
speak.
• We plan to advertise widely and will use the HRC name and logo in all materials
and on our website at uichr.org
• We can send a representative to speak to the Commissioners as they review our
application and, if funded, to give a follow up report after the event. Contact
information appears the end of this letter.
We would like to ask to be considered for sponsorship of $250. In addition to the speaking fee,
we need to pay for all travel expenses for our guest. Due to his work and court schedule, we do
not yet know the places and times for his travel. As always, we greatly appreciate your
consideration of this request.
Best regards,
Joan Nashelsky, MLS
Program Coordinator
UI Center for Human Rights
The University of Iowa
1120 University Capitol Centre
Iowa City, IA 52242
319-335-3900 or319-594-4541
joan-nasheisky@uiowa.edu
Agenda Item 5a
The Human Rights City Initiative
a proposed partnership between
The University of Iowa Center for Human Rights
and the
Iowa City Human Rights Commission
A. Invitation
The UI Center for Human Rights (UICHR) invites the Iowa City Human Rights Commission (ICHRC) to join
in a partnership to build a "Human Rights City" (HRC), a community governed by human rights principles
and standards in community decision -making. The partnership would reflect a mutual pledge between
the ICHRC and UICHR to jointly sponsor a community -wide process of education and discourse which,
over time and guided by a common action agenda (Section E below), would facilitate effective citizen
engagement in promoting and protecting human rights throughout both the public and private sectors
of Iowa City (and potentially Johnson County as it affects Iowa City).
B. The "Human Rights City" Idea
An HRC is a community in which municipal governance (and potentially related county governance) and
private sector decision -making are guided by the human rights principles and standards set forth in the
historic Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) and its companion treaty instruments
("covenants") which together comprise "the International Bill of Human Rights." It signals a
commitment by local public authorities (city council, law enforcement, the judiciary, regulators, schools,
the UI, etc.) and community leaders (businesses, labor unions, civic/social organizations, schools, faith -
based institutions, etc.) to promote and protect the civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights of
every person and social group within their jurisdictions. The goal is a community committed to human
rights as a way of life. As former UN Secretary -General Kofi Annan once put it, "[w]hat we must offer is
a vision of human rights that is foreign to no one and native to all."
C. Origins of the Idea
The HRC idea emerges from the work of the People's Decade for Human Rights Education (PDHRE—
http://www.pdhre.org) in the 1990s. Now known as the People's Movement for Human Rights
Education, this non -governmental organization (NGO) has assisted in the development of at least 30
HRC initiatives worldwide (including, e.g., Rosario, Argentina; Graz, Austria; Bihac, Bosnia; Porto Alegre,
Brazil; Edmonton, Canada; Valparaiso, Chile; Nagpur, India; Bucuy Municipality, Philippines; Thies,
Senegal; Mogale, South Africa; Kaohsiung, Taiwan; etc.). The PDHRE model is complementary to
contemporary sustainable urban development initiatives, emphasizing the need for inclusive
governance. A sustainable HRC, always a work in progress, enables its citizens and others within its
domain to become meaningfully engaged in the decisions that determine their lives —the prerequisites
of good governance and an equitable economy, the foundation of a just society.
D. The Way Forward
Human rights are built on relationships, resources, policies, and laws. Their implementation rests on
three core elements: j✓ an ethic of respect for others, interdependence, shared responsibility, and
fairness among all human beings; seconda logic of integrated citizenship that insists upon transparency
and accountability in all activities that affect the integrity of the body -politic; and thJ but no less
fundamental, continuous human rights education which enhances knowledge, develops critical
understanding, clarifies values, promotes solidarity, changes attitudes, and ultimately alters behavior
and practices.
Building an HRC is a process that calls upon all individuals and groups within the community, from
policymakers to "ordinary' citizens, to learn about, and adhere to, human rights principles and
standards —and thereby discover human rights as a dynamic, multi -dimensional force in their lives and
the life of the larger surroundings in which they work and play. Perceiving how human rights norms
relate to their own immediate, practical concerns, these individuals and groups join together to monitor
violations and the implementation of human rights throughout every community locale. They
cooperatively develop the methodology that can ensure that all decisions concerning relationships,
resource allocations, policies, and laws are informed by human rights principles and standards in all
sectors and at all levels of decision -making and problem -solving in the city (and possibly county). They
cooperatively ensure that human rights serve as the foundation upon which the community develops its
future plans and institutions.
E. A Common Action Agenda
Assuming a partnership between the ICHRC and UICHR and proceeding in the above -described ways,
we, the proponents of this HRC Initiative, recommend the following five steps by way of an initial
common action agenda between the ICHRC and the UICHR:
1. Form a Steering Committee. A Steering Committee led by the ICHRC and UICHR jointly would
develop, oversee, and facilitate the HRC Initiative over time. Committee members would come from
both the public and private sectors of Iowa City society. Primary tasks would include: identifying
governmental and civil society organizations concerned with civil, political economic, social, and
cultural issues; scheduling learning and planning sessions to examine the causes and effects of
human rights violations in the community; and exploring opportunities for human rights promotion
and protection generally and specifically. Committee members would engage also in self -education
programming to ensure that all members of the Committee share and communicate a common
understanding of human rights commitments and responsibilities.
Z Create and Implement Educational Programming. The Steering Committee, with input from the
Iowa City community, would design a plan of action beginning with the development of an
education program with and for the city's diverse constituencies. Members of the Committee
would develop a human rights learning process and active dialogue with their constituencies,
exploring specific human rights as they relate to the wants and needs of their constituencies. To
these ends, in addition to everyone sharing their experiences, the Committee could create a
comprehensive human rights education information service comprised of local and potentially
regional and international human rights resource persons (educators, economists, lawyers,
sociologists, activists, etc.) able and willing to support the Committee's efforts. Activities of the
information service could include the traditional tools of education both inside and outside the
classroom, such as lectures, panel discussions, conferences, films, multimedia, the internet, etc.
They also could include the development of human rights training sessions for particular sectors and
groups, such as elected officials, municipal workers, educators, law enforcement personnel, the
legal bar and judiciary, business enterprises, labor unions, health care workers, social service
providers, faith -based leaders, parents, etc.
2
3. Support "Train -the -Trainers'" Initiatives to Multiply Learning Across the Community. As part of
the education process, participants would be recognized as educators, monitors, and documenters
of the human rights conditions in their families, neighborhoods, workplaces, and broader city
community. They also would be supported in the initiation of training workshops on human rights,
using both mainstream and creative modalities (e.g., testimony from community and city council
meetings, informal community discussions, street theater performances) and targeting diverse
groups that they themselves would lead. The results of the monitoring and documentation could
then be collected and shared to ensure the full, holistic inclusion of the community's individual and
collective human rights wants and needs, and thereby provide a systemic analysis of human rights
observance and violation.
4. Review of Laws, Budgets, and Practices of the Municipality (and Possibly County). The Steering
Committee would then invite the human -rights -informed community members (especially those
who produce documentation of abuses) to commit to participating in the decisions that determine
their lives and to ensuring that all institutions and processes that serve their neighborhoods become
"human rights institutions and processes" that honor fully the human rights principles and standards
that are implicated. The process of learning, monitoring, documenting, etc., would lead to the
development of immediate and long-term action plans to achieve these goals, enabling the
community to voice and document its developmental priorities and resource reallocation requests
and the identification and creation of new resources. Along with the Steering Committee, trained
community members would organize to examine existing law, work to amend local laws (and
potentially state and national laws), and lobby for new laws to promote and protect human rights.
Community members would also study existing budgets and consider the formulation by the
community of alternative budgets in line with community wants and needs consistent and with
human rights principles and standards.
S. Articulation of a Community Development Plan. A community development plan is an ultimate
on -going result, and could include the creation or modification of human rights ordinances; the
municipal incorporation of the substantive provisions of international human rights treaties; a
strategic plan for a rights -based approach to municipal economic development (and monitoring
thereof); and other devices and mechanisms.
F. Measure of Success
Success in achieving HRC status can be measured in multiple ways, but most importantly by the degree
to which the City of Iowa City (perhaps also surrounding Johnson County) proactively and transparently
utilizes a human rights lens through which to view, define, and evaluate its policy decisions,
authorizations, resource allocations, and other municipal acts. Also, it will be measured by the degree to
which the diverse private sector constituencies of Iowa City endorse and apply human rights principles
and standards in their everyday work and play. Like the HRC Initiative itself, this process of
measurement is always a work in progress, never complete. Establishing "a vision of human rights that
is foreign to no one and native to all" is not an overnight affair. In the end, however, there resides the
very real prospect of a deeply and widely humane city eligible for official recognition by a United Nations
'As was done, for example, when, in 1994, in response to citizen action, the Iowa City City Council amended
the city/s human rights ordinance (No. 94-3647) to incorporate the substantive provisions of the 1965
International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (see attached).
3
office or agency designating Iowa City as a "Human Rights City," similar to UNESCO's countenance of our
fair city as a "City of Literature" —a precedent -setting achievement across the entire State of
Iowa and one for which an ICHRC-UICHR partnership could bejustly proud.
G. The Potential Role of the ICHRC
It is the UICHR's hope that the ICHRC will formally (and hopefully unanimously) endorse this
HRC Initiative, an act of solidarity that surely would strengthen a planned appeal to the Iowa
City City Council (ICCC) for its formal endorsement as well. Beyond this key act, however, it is,
we believe, for the members of the ICHRC themselves to discuss and determine the role that
the ICHRC might appropriately play in this exciting venture. Several obvious issues present
themselves, which we respectfully offer here as suggestions only:
• is an ICHRC proclamation of endorsement of some sort desirable?
• does the ICHRC's mandate allow for ICHRC participation greater than endorsement of
the HRC Initiative?
• should representatives of the ICHRC be present alongside representatives of the UICHR
when it is time to ask the ICCC for its formal endorsement of the HRC Initiative?
• should the ICHRC provide one or more of its members to be on the HRC Steering
Committee along with those representing the UICHR and the Iowa City community in
general?
• will the ICHRC help the UICHR to identify community members for the HRC Steering
Committee?
• will the ICHRC help the UICHR to recruit community members for the HRC Steering
Committee?
• will the ICHRC help with the financing of the various activities of the HRC Initiative as
proven needed; and, if not some such activities, which kinds not ?
• will the ICHRC or any one or more of its members be actively engaged in the educational
and training activities of the HRC Initiative; and, if not some such activities, which kinds
not?
• will the ICHRC commit to the proposed UICHR partnership for as long as it takes for the
HRC Initiative to achieve and operationalize its Community Development Plan? Beyond
that time as well?
The UICHR looks forward to further engagement with the ICHRC on these questions, and ultimately to a
partnership that furthers the goals of the HRC Initiative.
H. HRC Initiative Proponents
This invitation to the ICHRC from the UICHR has been prepared by Burns Weston (Founder and Senior
Scholar of the UICHR) and Amy Weismann (Assistant Director of the UICHR) in consultation with a small
group of sympathetic Iowa City citizens (Andrea Cohen, Kim Hanrahan, Harry Olmstead, Dorothy Paul,
and Robert Welsh) and with the full support of UICHR Director Adrien Wing on behalf of the UICHR.
E3S=3
4
Sterling Codifiers, Inc.
Page 1 of 1
2-1-2: PURPOSE:
It is the purpose of this title to protect citizens of the city against "discrimination" as defined
in this chapter. Moreover, this title provides for execution within the city of the policies of the
Iowa civil rights act of 1965, as amended, the federal civil rights acts, as amended, the
preamble and part I (articles 1-7) of the "International Convention On The Elimination Of All
Forms Of Racial Discrimination (1966)", as amended, and the promotion of cooperation
among the city, state and federal agencies which are charged, presently and in the future,
with enforcing these acts and instruments. (Ord. 03-4105, 12-16-2003)
2-1-3: CONSTRUCTION:
This title shall be construed broadly to effectuate its purpose, and snail be enforced by the
Iowa City human rights commission consistent with the intent, language and spirit of the
preamble and part I (articles 1-7) of the 'International Convention On The Elimination Of All
Forms Of Racial Discrimination (1966)", as amended. However, the construction and
enforcement of the preamble and part I of said international convention shall in no event
operate to diminish protection that otherwise exists under this title, the Iowa civil rights act,
as amended, the federal civil rights acts, as amended, or the constitution of the state of
Iowa, as amended, or the constitution of the United States of America, as amended. (Ord.
94-3647,11-8-1994)
http://www.sterlingcodifiers.com/codebook/printnow.php 4/14/2015
Agenda Item 5b
I 1
4. mat
II*
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unk
CITY OF IOWA CITY
July 1, 2015
City of Iowa City
Human Rights Commission
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, -IA 52240
319-356-5022
humanrights(ciliowacity ore
Thank you for your interest in sponsorship from the City of Iowa City Human Rights Commission. The Human Rights
Commission (HRQ is pleased to make funding available for community events, programs and activities that will
fulfill the HRC's mission to cooperate with other agencies or orC--nizations, both public and private, whose nurnosps are
not inconsistent with those of the Human Rights Ordinance, ano rri
to eliminate racial, religious, cultural and other intergroup tensions.
Our current policy far funding request is below
The toKra City Humatr,fthts Con) rrdssion con donate funds to or
Iowa City Human Rights Commission in providing such thlpgs as
fonlms or programs and activities designed o eliminate r!aelo, ,
induding but not limited to sex; color, rree4 disability, grander i.
national origin.
:he planning a conducting ❑f programs designed
ions and ties that collaborate
ing, plan anal facilitating educ
OR, cultural and ocher intergroup ten
rMxuot orieatcition, marital status,
In 0 rder for us to process your rou est for sprmsorshIp we need for you 1 v take a few rininutes to fill out the
application form. Please note sliprrsorship requests are due by 5 pm on the second Tuesday of each month.
the
vl public
Thi lowa
City ►aurnan Rights Commission will review the requ[ sl F.I their monthly meelm(; and staff will contact you by vmail,
unless otherwise noted, letting you know whether the request was approved or denied.
Sincerely,
4`
Joe D. Coulter, Chair
Human Rights Commission
Page 1 of 4
HRC APPLICATION FORM REQUESTING
SPONSORSHIP FY16
Group/Organization Name:
Organization Purpose:_
Contact Person: Contact Person's Email Address:
Mailing Address:
City: .m6- State: an An rnAr W i
Group/Organization email address:
Grtiu . /Organization Web;,te:
Fai:eWok Account: _ li
Activity/program/event name
Dane of activity/program/eve
Describe Iscw the actNity, program, or event will create or have a positimppactsur community:
Amount of funds requesting $
What other funders are involved?
How does your activity/program/event support the HRC mission?
Is there a representative available to attend a HRC meeting to answer questions about the event in advance of
sponsorship?
If so please provide the name, phone and email address for the representative If different than above:
Circle the category that best describes the event/activity/program:
Arts & Culture Community Event Fundraiser /Charity
Page 2 of 4
Other (Please specify):
Is the event/activity/program: Local, Regional, National or International?
Advertising
Will the HRC be mentioned in advertisements as a sponsor or co-sponsor?
Will the HRC name or logo be used in any promotional materials?
Location
Name of event location:
Address of event location: Is
the event location wheelchair accessible?
Is the event location accessible to individuals with visual impairments?
Is tile_ekvent location ADA
accasi"?
Folllow-up
After the event is held would a representatwe be able to attend a HRC meeting c r send a report on the
impact on Human Rights?
If sia please provide $p address for the
r'
W
Page 3 of 4
SUBMIT PROPOSALS BY MAIL TO:
Human Rights Coordinator
City Hall
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240-1826
319-356-5022
OR BY FAX AT:
319-887-6213
Office use only:
Approved:
Not Approved:
Page 4 of 4
Agenda item 5c
WN
CITY OF IOWA CITY
HUMAN R10HTS COMMISSION
Action Plan
January 2015 — December 2015
Adopted January 20, 2015
A goal setting session was held on October 2, 2014, at the Eastside Recycling
Environmental Education Center. The following Commissioners were in attendance and
participated at this meeting: Harry Olmstead (Chair), Andrea Cohen (Vice -Chair),
Shams Ghoneim, Paul Retish, Stella Hart, Ali Ahmed, Orville Townsend Sr., and Kim
Hanrahan. Also in attendance was Human Rights Coordinator Stefanie Bowers.
Commissioner Joe D. Coulter was unable to attend. What follows is the prioritization of
initiatives identified at the goal setting session. The initiatives will be reviewed by the
Commission at its monthly meetings on a quarterly basis.
Human Rights Breakfast.
Youth Awards.
Job Fair.
Collaboration with community organizations & groups.
Participation in community events.
Sponsor professional development programs.
ORGANIZATIONAL INITIATIVES
Continue sub -committees.
Initiate more educational programs and outreach programs from trends reported in the
Annual Report or the Equity Report.
Increase participation of all Commissioners in Commission sponsored events, programs
and outreach.
NEW INITIATIVES
Objective
Commissioner
Commission
members
Outcome
Audience
Date
Date
Outreach to
Hold Kim Hanrahan
Involved
Orville
Foster
Community
Community
Listening
Townsend Sr.,
Community
Posts
Stella Hart
Dialogue &
Community
Engagement
Outreach to
Present
Joe D. Coulter
Paul Retish
Maintain
Council
Council
Proclamations
Positive
, Provide
Relationship
Notice of
with the
Upcoming
Council
Programs &
Events
Educational
Events on
Stella Hart
Harry
Community
Community
Events for the
Affordable,
Olmstead
Engagement,
Community
Universal, &
Education, &
Accessible
Outreach
Housing
Educational
Presentations
Shams
Orville
Awareness
Schools,
June 17, 2015
Presentations
on Who the
Ghoneim
Townsend Sr.,
about the
Community
to the
Commission is
All Ahmed
Commission &
Groups,
Community
and the Role
Access to
Service Clubs,
the
Resources
Faith
Commission
Communities
Plays in the
Community
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April Correspondence
Cup O' Justice is a year -long series of discussions designed to bring
change leaders together in shared learning, and to honor the rich
tradition of activism at the University of Iowa and in the surrounding
community.
VII�p ri
l
- 10:00 am - 11:30am
Penn State Room
337 IMU
L/O C44
r;
Harry Olmstead is a member of the
Iowa City Human Rights Commission,
Johnson County Livable Community
Policy Board, SEATS Paratransit
Advisory Committee and formerly the
organ¢er of the now -defunct
Southeastern Iowa Amputee Support
Group. Olmstead received The Arc of
Southeast Iowa's Hero Award, and
was the recipient of the 2012 Iowa
Rehabilitation Association Chuck
Wood Memorial Award.
Interested Students, Faculty, and
C )e Staff can attend by contacting
Kyra-Seay@uiowa.edu
oeo
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa -sponsored
events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in
order to participate in this program, please contact the Chief Diversity Office: (319)
353-2388:TDD:(319)335-0697_
Don't let your past
Determine your future
April 24
Sealing Day
Johnson County
Courthouse
ELIGIBILITY
1) Must be 18 or older • Q •
2) Two years have passed
since your probation ended
3) No other convictions of a
felony, aggravated, or
serious misdemeanor
4) Charges originated in
Johnson County
E?a I i ng uay. cc
Stefanie Bowers
From:
City of Iowa City <web@iowa-city.org>
Sent:
Wednesday, March 25, 2015 10:42 AM
To:
Stefanie Bowers
Subject:
Citizens Police Review Board Community Forum
Title: Citizens Police Review Board Community Forum Release Date & Time: Wednesday, March
25, 2015 10:41:35 AM Issued By: City Clerk Mailing List(s) : General City News Contact Person .
Kellie Tuttle Contact Number: (319) 356-5043 Contact Email: kellie-tuttlea_iowa-citv.org
The Citizens Police Review Board will be holding its Annual Community Forum for the purpose of
hearing Citizens' views on the policies, practices and procedures of the Iowa City Police Department.
WHEN: Tuesday, April 28, 2015
TIME: 6:00 PM
WHERE: Iowa City Public Library, Rm A
123 South Linn Street, IC
Questions & Comments:
Send your questions or comments you'd like addressed at the forum to the following by Tuesday,
April 21 st:
Please include full name and address. (All correspondence is public)
CPRB
City of Iowa City
410 E Washington St
Iowa City, IA 52240
Or e-mail to CPRB staff:
kellie-tuttleftowa-citv.ora
The Board will attempt to address all correspondence received.
The forum will be taped and rebroadcast on the Interactive City Channel 4
View this article on the ICGov Web Site: htta://www.icaov.org/appstnews/?newslD=10376
To unsubscribe or edit your subscription details use this link:
http://www.iowa-
citv.org/icaov/apes/subscribe/edit/?subl D=10728&confCode=J BNARFFSM E 123201412453
To learn about current employment opportunities with the City of Iowa City use this link:
hftp://www.icciov.or-q/defaultlapps/GEN/gobs.asr)
To view more news from the City of Iowa City use this link:
hftp://www.icqov.org/defaultlar)ps/GEN/news.ast)
Do not reply directly to this e-mail. It is produced from an automated system, and is not monitored for
replies. If you have a question or comment about this information, please contact the originating
department of this message, or by using the form at:
hftp://www.icciov.org/defaulttapps/serviceCenter/feedback.asp.
For technical questions regarding the website, please contact us by using the form at:
hfti)://www.icqov.org/defaulttapps/serviceCenter/webmaster.asp.
We invite YOU to attend a forum.
The City of Iowa City
CITIZENS POLICE REVIEW BOARD
COMMUNITY FORUM
WHEN: Tuesday, April 28, 2015
TIME: 6:00 PM
WHERE: Iowa City Public Library, Rm A
123 South Linn Street, IC
TOPIC:
The Citizens Police Review Board will be holding a Community Forum
for the purpose of hearing Citizens' views on the policies, practices and
procedures of the Iowa City Police Department.
(Find ICPD General Orders at www.icgov.orq under Police Dept)
QUESTIONS & COMMENTS:
Send your questions or comments you'd like addressed at the forum
to the following by Tuesday, April 21 st:
Please include full name and address. (All correspondence is public)
CPRB
City of Iowa City
410 E Washington St
Iowa City, IA 52240
Or e-mail to CPRB staff:
kellie-tuftle@iowa-city.org
The Board will attempt to address all correspondence received.
The forum will be taped for rebroadcast.
Our Beaut"I"Ful Selves
A special event for mothers and daughters, sponsored by Johnson County
Community Partnership for Protecting Children, J.C. Social Services, Iowa
onsortium, Johnson County Public Health
am
ihmon * I 4�� Communii(1L111t a ,hips
e. � � r
lar Prorxdng Children
Guest Speaker
Evette Creighton
Founder of the BEAUTY Self
Empowerment Program
REGISTRATION
IS REQUIRED!
SPACE IS LIMITED,
MORE INFORMATION BELOW
Attire
Summer Dress
Lunch & Swag Bag
Girls Eligible
Grades 7-12
Location
855 S. Dubuque St,
Iowa City, IA
Transportation is available
9, 2015n 1IXV2:00
for more intormation or so register, contact Tessa hleeren at (641)691-5575 or e-mail or- 47-
at tessa.heeren@uiowa.edu
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TUESDAY MAY 26TH
2PM - 5PM
MERCER PARK AQUATIC CENTER
2701 BRADFORD DRIVE, IOWA CITY
• Goodwill
[ ] e'a i dared
SPONSORED RY�
FOR MORE INFORMATION CAI JAMES OR jEREMY AT 319-361-D326