HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-15-2019 Human Rights CommissionFurl A01NA1
Human Rights Commission (HRC)
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
5:30 P.M.
City Hall, Helling Conference Room
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City
1. Call Meeting to Order and Roll Call.
2. Approval of the August 22, 2019 meeting minutes.
3. Approval of the September 17, 2019 meeting minutes.
4. Public Comment of Items not on the Agenda. (Commentators shall address the
Commission for no more than 5 minutes. Commissioners shall not engage in discussion
with the public concerning said items).
5. Items to be discussed:
a. Funding Request: University of Iowa Lecture Committee.
b. Funding Request: University of Iowa African American Studies.
c. Annual Report.
d. Human Rights Breakfast (October 23).
e. Committees: Public Safety; Education; Community Outreach; Housing.
f. Human Rights Commission's Strategic Planning Report 2018.
g. Official Statements by the Human Rights Commission.
h. Social Justice and Racial Equity Grant.
i. Open House and Informational Session (November 11).
i. Correspondence.
6. Staff/Commission Announcements. (Commissioners shall not engage in discussion with
one another concerning said announcements).
7. Comments of Staff.
8. Adjournment.
If you will need disability -related accommodations to participate in this meeting please contact
the Equity Director, Stefanie Bowers, at 319-356-5022 or at stefanie-bowers@iowa-city.org.
Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
Page 1 of 4
Draft Minutes
Human Rights Commission
City Hall, Helling Conference
August22,2019
Members Present: Jeff Falk, Cathy McGinnis, Bijou Maliabo, Jessica
Ferdig, Barbara Kutzko, Tahuanty Pena.
Members Absent: Adil Adams. Noemi Ford. JonathonMunoz
Staff Present: Stefanie Bowers.
Recommendation to Council: Yes. The Human Rights Commission makes the
following recommendation to City Council for the
Social Justice Racial Equity Grant for fiscal year 2020.
Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at 5:36 PM.
Social Justice and Racial Eauity Grant: The Commission followed up from its
discussion of July 3 on the recommendations for changes/updates to the Social Justice
and Racial Equity Grant (SJRE) for fiscal year 2020.
The recommendations are as follows:
1. Governments, public schools, colleges and universities should not be a primary
applicant. Like City departments, governments, public colleges, universities and
public schools receive money from federal, state and local tax collections. Such
institutions should not compete with local nonprofits for limited City funding. If a
government, public school, college or university have a project that they would like to
initiate it should be submitted as a part of their annual budget process. This would not
restrict a government, public school, college or university from being a non- primary
applicant to a grant. This also would not prevent an organization associated or affiliated
with a government, public school, college or university from applying as a primary
applicant. For example, a student association or a parent teacher organization.
2. Ineligibility periods should be placed on organizations that have received
prior SJRE grant funding. Starting with fiscal year 2020, organizations that
receive SJRE grant funding will be ineligible to receive SJRE grant funding in the
next SJRE grant cycle. For example, if organization "A" receives funding in the
SJRE grant FY20 cycle, it would not be considered for funding prior to the FY22
grant cycle. This would be true even if it is a new or different project than had been
funded in FY20.
3. Whether an organization has received or will receive funding from the City of
Iowa City should be considered when making recommendations as to who should
be funded. Commissioners should factor into its recommendation to City Council
whether an organization will or has received funding for any project from the City of Iowa
Page 2 of 4
City within the last five years, and if so, the amount of the funding, and the duration of the
funding.
4. There should be a maximum amount requested by each proposal. Organizations
will be restricted to requesting no more than $25,000 for a project.
5. Applicants should be strongly encouraged to attend an open house
informational session on the grant that will be presented by commission
members. The informational session will be an opportunity to learn about the grant,
the process, and how commission members evaluate and rank the applications. The
event will be held in the month of November prior to the application period which
runs from December 2, 2019 — January 3, 2020.
6. The application form should state in its opening introduction that the
intent and purpose of the SJRE grant is to service and benefit Iowa Citians
as much as reasonably possible.
7. The application should provide in its opening introduction a definition of social
justice and racial equity to serve as guides for both commissioners and
applicants. The proposed definition is a merger of two definitions taken from the
Adams, Bell and Griffin (2007) book Teaching for Diversity and Social Justice and the
Greater Milwaukee Foundation.
For purposes of this grant the Commission would use the below definition to evaluate
each application based on the six identified priority areas —housing, building community,
employment, criminal justice, education, health.
Social justice and racial equity are both a process and a goal. The goal is full and equal
participation of all groups and individuals in a society that is mutually shaped to meet
their needs, allow them to reach their full potential, and limit/decrease barriers. This
definition includes a vision of society that is equitable, and where all members are
physically and psychologically safe and secure.
8. The application should ask applicants to provide a narrative about how
the proposed project came to be. The narrative could be descriptive or based
on city or statewide statistics. This would be added prior to the question that asks
What community need does this program, service or activity fulfill? Response
should include information or data that demonstrates the need (local or statewide
data).
9. The application should ask whether a sustainability plan has been
established for projects that wish to continue in the future without SJRE
grant funding. The sustainability plan must be specific on future funding and not
simply state the agency will continue to look for support. A sustainability plan is not
required for projects to be recommended for funding and is only applicable for
projects that plan on continuing after the SJRE cycle ends.
10. The application should ask how the good or service produced as a result
Page 3 of 4
of a project will be shared and/or communicated with the targeted community
and the larger community. This question would replace the below question
currently asked on the application How will these outcomes be shared beyond your
organization with the community?
11. Recipients of the SJRE grant after completion of the grant cycle must as a part
of the agreement present to the commission and the community at a commission
sponsored forum on their project. The project presentation would include project
summary, objectives, results, and evaluation.
12. SJRE grant funding should be available for some operational expenses.
Operational costs should be defined as below and grant recipients would be
allowed to use up to 25% of its funding request on operational costs.
Operational Costs: expenses which are related to the operation of a business, or to the
operation of a device, component, piece of equipment or facility. They are the cost of
resources used by an organization just to maintain its existence. Examples Include but
are not limited to: salaries or wages of personnel, advertising, raw materials, license or
equivalent fees (such as Corporation yearly registration fees) imposed by a government,
real estate expenses (like rent or lease payments), furniture and equipment, utilities
(such as telephone service, internet connectivity, etc.), maintenance of equipment, office
supplies and consumables, and insurance premiums.
13. After applications have been received but prior to the recommendation to
City Council, commissioners may submit questions to applicants via staff.
Commission questions along with the response will be shared with all commissioners
and published to the public.
14. To keep within the spirit of the grant, final rankings should serve different
populations. A statement should be given at the open house informational session
and at the Human Rights Commission meeting when allocations are being
recommended so stating.
15. Partial funding may be recommended for the next highest ranked
applicant, if the applicant has clearly stated on the application form that the
project can be completed with less funding. A question will be added to the
application form.
Adjournment: Motion to adjourn at 7:44 PM.
Page 4 of 4
Member Attendance Sheet
Member
Ter
m
1/8
1/24
2119
3/19
4/16
5/21
6/18
7/03
7/16
8/20
8/22
Maliabo
1/202
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Excused
Present
Present
McGinnis
1/202
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Munoz
1/202
Excused
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Excused
Excused
Present
Excused
Kutzko
1/202
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Excused
Excused
Present
Present
Present
Present
Falk
1/202
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Pena
1/202
Present
I Present
I Excused
I Present
I Present
I Present
Present
I Present
lExcused
lPresent
Present
Adams
1/202
Excused
Present
Present
Present
Present
Absent
Present
Excused
Present
Present
Excused
Ferdig
1/202
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
I Present
present
lPresent
Present
Ford
1/202
Present
Excused
Present
Excused
Present
Present
Present
I Excused
JPresent
lPresent
lExcused
KEY: X = Present
0 = Absent
0/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member
Draft Minutes
Human Rights Commission
City Hall, Helling Conference Room
September 17, 2019
Members Present: Jeff Falk, Jessica Ferdig, Barbara Kutzko, Jonathon
Munoz, Bijou Maliabo.
Members Not Present: Adil Adams, Noemi Ford, Tahuanty Pena, Cathy
McGinnis,
Staff Present: Stefanie Bowers.
Others Present: Andrea Cohen.
Recommendation to Council: No.
Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at 5:41 PM.
Approval of the August 20, 2019 meeting minutes: Ferdig made a motion, it was
seconded by Munoz. Motion passed 5-0.
Approval of the August 22, 2019 meeting minutes: Motion failed to have a quorum of
Commission members voting. Item will be placed on October 15 meeting agenda.
Latino Festival: This event was held on August 24 from noon to nine on the Ped Mall.
Ferdig and Ford staffed a vendor table on behalf of the Commission. It was very well
attended and Ferdig hopes the Commission will participate again at the event next year.
Official Statements: Commissioners had a discussion on how and when they would
make official statements. It was decided that a draft statement would be presented to the
entire Commission for a vote and that the Chair would sign it, if approved by a majority
vote. on behalf of the Commission.
Strategic Plan from 2018: Commissioners had implemented a strategic plan in the
spring of 2018. It was not followed through on as anticipated. The Commission would
like to have a deeper discussion on how to create initiatives and then on how to best
prioritize initiatives. Because four members were absent it will be added to the agenda in
the future.
Committee Updates: There are four committees that assist in advancing the strategic
plan. The four committees are Housing ('Falk, Adams, Pena); Public Safety ('McGinnis,
Maliabo, Munoz); Education ('Ferdig, Falk, Kutzko, Pena); and Community Outreach
('Adams, Falk, Munoz). Asterisks designates chairs of the committees.
Housing: No report.
Page 1 of 4
Public Safety: Cohen provided a copy of a proclamation and brochure on the hate
speech campaign. She would like the Commission to present a proclamation for the
Mayor's consideration to introduce the brochure and the need for this type of work in the
community. The Commission delegated the committee to work with Cohen on producing
a final proclamation and an appropriate day for it to be declared. A possibility is the
International Day of Tolerance.
Education: The committee has been following the discussion of the Iowa City
Community School Board on placing School Resource Officers (SRO) in the schools. At
some point in the future they may ask the Commission to make an official statement on
the subject.
Community Outreach: No report.
National Hispanic Heritage Month: Ferdig will accept the proclamation on behalf of the
Commission at the City Council meeting of September 17.
Human Rights Breakfast: This annual award ceremony is scheduled for October 23.
Dr. Melissa Shivers, University of Iowa's Vice President for Student Life will be the
keynote speaker.
Nominations are currently being accepted for honorees. Maliabo and Ferdig will serve on
the selection committee. Staff will send a note out to other Commissioners, not in
attendance. to see if at least one more can serve on the selection committee.
Pena will do the welcome at the event, Ferdig will introduce the speaker, McGinnis will
announce the awards, and Munoz will perform the closing.
Falk attended a Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition meeting where Tracy
Hightshoe, Director of Neighborhood and Development Services, spoke on City
initiatives on affordable housing.
Kutzko is assisting with the planning of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. It will be held at
Mercer on Monday, January 20. She also recently joined the Black Voices Project.
Ferdig helped at the City's job and career fair and would recommend interpreters be
made available next year for job searchers. She also is a committee member on the
University of Iowa's Health Equity Advancement through the College of Public Health.
They have an annual summit that will be held this coming spring.
Adjournment: Motion to adjourn at 6:48 PM.
Page 2 of 4
Member Attendance Sheet
Member
Term
1/8
1/24
2119
3/19
4/16
5/21
6/18
7/03
7/16
8/20
9/17
Maliabo
1/2021
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Excused
Present
Present
McGinnis
1/2021
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Excused
Munoz
1/2021
Excused
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Excused
Excused
Present
Present
Kutzko
1/2020
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Excused
Excused
Present
Present
Present
Present
Falk
1/2020
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Pena
1/2020
Present
Present
Excused
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Excused
Present
Excused
Adams
1/2022
Excused
Present
Present
Present
Present
Absent
Present
Excused
Present
present
Excused
Ferdig
1/2022
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Ford
1/2022
Present
Excused
I Present
Excused
Present
Present
Present
Excused
jPresent
JPresent
lExcused
Agenda Items 5a & 5b
July 1, 2019
r x
CITY OF IOWA CITY
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826
(319) 356-5000
(319) 356-5009 FAX
www.icgov.org
Thank you for your interest in seeking sponsorship from the Iowa City Human Rights
Commission. The Commission provides funding to organizations and agencies to offset the costs
of organizing, planning, and facilitating educational public forums or programs and activities that
are 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.
To process your request for sponsorship, we need you to take a few minutes to fill
out the attached application form. Please note sponsorship requests are due by 5 p.m. on the
second Monday of each month. The Iowa City Human Rights Commission will review the
request at their monthly meeting and staff will contact you to let you know whether the request
has been approved. If you are awarded funding, you will be required to submit a full (one
page) summary of funding impact, including but not limited to, number of persons involved in
your project, anecdotal stories to share with the team about the event, frequency of the event,
and other essential information. Reporting instructions for full reimbursement of funds are
attached to this document.
If you have any questions about the application process, please do not hesitate to contact
Equity Director Stefanie Bowers at 319-356-5022 or stefanie-bowers&iowa-city.org.
Sincerely,
Stefanie Bowers
Equity Director/HumauRights Coordinator
Stefanie Bowers
City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240-1826
Or
By facsimile to 319-887-6213 or email to stefanie-bowers@iowa-city.org.
Funding Changes - Human Rights Commission -
Funding applications must be submitted a month before an event as the Human Rights
Commission meets and votes on requests on the 3rd Tuesday of every month.
If you are awarded funding, you will be required to submit a full (one page) summary of funding
impact, including but not limited to, number of persons involved in your project, anecdotal stories
to share about the event, frequency of the event, and other essential information.
Each organization must submit both receipts and an invoice to Stefanie Bowers within 3 weeks
(fifteen business days) after the event to receive reimbursement. The invoice must include the dates
of the receipts, a W-9, and the address for where payment should be remitted. Funding
reimbursement will not be issued until receipts, invoice and the report are submitted.
If you have been approved for funding and you no longer need it, you must notify Stefanie Bowers
within 3 weeks (fifteen business days) after your event so that we can release the funding for other
community organizations to have an opportunity to apply for the funding.
HRC APPLICATION FORM REQUESTING
SPONSORSHIPFY19
Today's Date: ID -7 — I
Group/organization Name: U� t f-
Z
I r
r*tmma�
CITY OF IOWA CITY
410 East Washingten sheet
Iowa city, Iowa 52140-1826
(3 1 9) 3 5 6-5 000
1319) 356-5009 FAX
w,v v,.tcgm erg
Contact person: V Eali L 4r
Phone number: b I >' � — 7,}��Email address: VLkfitf ®
(3t t) C f u
Date of activity/everruprogram:
Event location and address:
Is the event location wheelchair accessible? y �f
Is the event location accessible to individuals with visual impairments?
Describe the activity/event/program and how it contributes to Human Rights:
N
M
AT,--- s17L,d-Pan% /4' (`l �l / 'V/—
✓h/5� �— .T r� 105�
Amount of funds requested and itemized budget (provide the budget on separate sheet):
Other funders involved?
Has the organization applied for any other City of Iowa City funding for this activity/even/program? If so, what
deparlment(s), how much? Was the request granted'?
Has the organization received any funding from the City of Iowa City in the last year? If so, what department(s), how
much'? A.A-arm i e e- _ _ . - V , �,
IF A naf . men. /ta a...
How will this activity/event/program be marketed? ij7 W, (..* &E /-T)
Is the activity/event/program afundraiser? If so, explain:
Please acknowledge by initialling here that you have read the cover letter to this form:
Submit request to:
! t
. m{-Vj
HRC APPLICATION FORM REQUESTING
SPONSORSHIP FY19 CITY OF IOWA CITY
10 East Washington Sliest
Iowa Cay. Iowa 522,10-I826
(319) 356-5000
Today's Date: to` 7 — (3 i 9) 356-5009 FAX
rvww-�cgov.org
Group/organization Name: A464EA aW A!& CA-f C4W 3 1)1 `G f
Contact person: byt
Phone number: 77 —7535 61,-`. Ema1 address: EV C1
(31 f j u —o -?d c ��
Date of activity/event/program: L�
Event location and address:�cltw e
4S Lf-7--Gf9t�
Is the event location wheelchair accessible? / f J
is 'ire event i6Cati vn aei;CS5lbie to individuals with visual Impairments? Cf
!
Describe the activity/event program and how it contributes to Human Rights:Oty f j,d lift
U-rs ld,*j L t c-C
Amount of funds requested and itemized budget (provide the budget on separate sheet): �t� ' 6� 7�
Other funders involved?
Has the organization applied for any other City of Iowa City funding for this activity/even/program? If so, what^f
department(s), how much? Was the request granted'? i
Has the organization received any funding from the City of Iowa City in the last year? If so, what
hJr
How will this activity/event/program be marketed? /7— /�F t ¢---',�F { J3j
� iYLH fi1Lf Lv Lc _.(S� C�ILi./-r t � OG ISN�`
Will sponsors be mentioned and/or sponsor logos be used in the marketing of the activity/event/program?
%j14,-,/k
Is the activity/event/program a fundraiser? If so, explain
Please acknowledge by initialling here that you have read the cover letter to this form:
Submit request to:
Agenda Item 5c
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
The Iowa City Human Rights Commission is represented by nine residents of Iowa
City, each of whom are appointed by the Council for three-year terms. The
Commissioners, all committed to civil rights, reflect a broad cross-section of the
community, thus ensuring diversity of ideas and interests. In the appointment
process, consideration is given to racial, religious, cultural, social and economic
groups within the City.
The Commission has the following powers:
• Make recommendations to the Council for such further legislation
concerning discrimination as it may deem necessary and desirable.
• Educate the public on human rights and illegal discrimination, such as
organizing and facilitating educational public forums that address one or
more of the broad range of topics included within the rubric of human rights.
• Cooperate, within the limits of any appropriations made for its operation,
with other agencies or organizations, both public and private, whose
purposes are not inconsistent with those of the Human Rights Ordinance.
• Coordinate programs designed to eliminate racial, religious, cultural and
other intergroup tensions.
The Commission annually elects a Chairperson and a Vice -Chairperson and holds
monthly meetings in the Helling Conference Room at City Hall on the third Tuesday
of each month at 5:30 p.m.
FY 19 Human Rights Commission Members
Tahuanty Pena, Chair
Bijou Maliabo, Vice Chair
Adil Adams
Jeff Falk
Jessica Ferdig
Noemi Ford
Barbara Kutzko
Cathy McGinnis
Jonathon Munoz
The Human Rights Office consists of two full-time staff, a Human Rights
Coordinator and a Human Rights Investigator.
1
Summary of FYI Commission Initiatives
The Commission accomplished FY18 goals. These included, among others,
• contributing to and participating in activities, programs, and events that
advance human rights.
• supporting local organizations through the administration of the Social
Justice and Racial Equity Grant funding.
FY 19 Recommendations by the Commission to Council
January 2019: Recommendation to fund the following organizations for the Social
Justice and Racial Equity Grant: Iowa Harm Reduction, Refugee and Immigrant
Association, University of Iowa Labor Center, Inside Out Reentry, University of
Iowa Mood Disorders Center, Shelter House, Access 2 Independence,
Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County & South District Neighborhood
Association.
FY 19 Manor's Proclamations Submitted by the Commission
National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 2018)
Indigenous People's Day (October 2018)
National Native American Heritage Month (November 2018)
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (January 2019)
Black History Month (February 2019)
National Fair Housing Month (April 2019)
Marriage Equality Day (April 2019)
International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (May 2019)
LGBTQ+ Pride Month (June 2019)
Juneteenth National Freedom Day (June 2019)
FY 19 Programs & Activities of the Commission
1. July 9, 2018, Participant, Implicit Bias training developed by US Department
of Justice.
2. July 9, 2018, Sponsor, Juneteenth Youth Essay Contest.
3. July 17, 2018, Presenter, "Creating an Inclusive Workplace" to Johnson
County Diversity & Inclusion Committee.
4. July 21, 2018, Sponsor, Vendor, 28th Anniversary of the ADA celebration
program.
5. August through December, 2018, Hosted Human Rights Office Student
Intern.
2
6. August 2, 2018, Mailer on "Parking as a Reasonable Accommodation" sent
to area Landlords and posted on City website.
7. August 9, 2018, Participant, Civil Rights Trail Project for Iowa City planning
meeting.
8. August 14, 2018, Participant, "Working Across Cultural Difference, Know
Yourself So You Can Learn About Others."
9. August 15, 2018, Participant, Meeting to discuss Impediments to Fair
Housing in Iowa City.
10. August 20, 2018, Weekly Advertisement in print and online versions of the
Daily Iowan updated.
11. August 22, 2018, Published map showing location of Complainants and
Respondents for the year 2017.
12. August 23, 2018, Placed ad in print and online versions of "Hawkeye View"
edition of Daily Iowan.
13. August 28, 2018, Attendee, "Disability Access in Government -Assisted
Housing Under Title II of the American with Disabilities Act."
14. August 29, 2018, Attendee, "Epic Fails!! Top Errors for new Supervisors to
Avoid" webinar.
15. August 29, 2018, Attendee, "Recruiting, Retention & Revenue: Best
Practices" panel discussion.
16. September —June, 2018 Placed monthly ad Go Guide.
17. September 5, 2018, Co-sponsor, Resume Building Workshop.
18. September 6, 2018, Presenter, University of Iowa Class entitled "Language,
Justice, and the Law."
19. September 11, 2018, Organizer, Sponsor, Iowa City Job & Resource Fair.
20. September 13, 2018, Sponsor, "Understanding Implicit Bias" training for City
Board and Commission members.
21. September 14, 2018, Presenter, "Iowa's Civil Rights History and Legacy" for
Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program.
22. September 18, 2018, Renewed Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition
membership.
23. September 19, 2018, Placed ad in the Press Citizen "Key" edition.
24. September 21-22, 2018, Attendee, "Racial Equity Workshop," a two-day
seminar.
25. September 25, 2018, Attendee, "Grant Writing 101."
26. September 27, 2018, Attendee, "Fair Housing Study Public Kick -Off Event."
27. September 28, 2018, Sponsor, Iowa Human Rights Agencies Fall Meeting
2018.
28. October 4, 2018 and February 22, 2019, Ad placed in print and online
versions of West Side Story, the student paper of West High School.
29. October 5, 2018, Presenter, University of Iowa class entitled "Environmental
Justice."
30. October 10, 2018, Participant, "Advancing Racial Equity in Your Library"
webinar.
31. October 11, 2018, Mailer on Guidance for Employers Using Criminal
Background Checks in Hiring sent to area businesses.
3
32. October 12, 2018, Fair Housing Choice Survey announced; available online
or mailed by request.
33. October 12, 2018, Participant, "The State of Poverty in Johnson County"
Public Forum.
34. October 19, 2018, Participant, City staff book discussion of The Boys in the
Bunkhouse, by Dan Barry.
35. October 23, 2018, Sponsor, Onelowa's 2°d Annual LGBTQ Workplace
Culture Summit.
36. October 24, 2018, Participant, CIVIC International Leadership Program panel
discussion with human rights educators from Korea.
37. October 24, 2018, Sponsor, 35th Annual Human Rights Award Breakfast.
38. October 25, 2018, Participant, Trans Rights = Human Rights Rally.
39. October 26, 2018, Renewed listing in Greater Iowa African American
Resource Guide.
40. October 27, 2018 Co-sponsor and Attendee, Refugee and Immigrant
Recognition Dinner.
41. October 29, 2018, Participant, Census Kick-off Meeting.
42. November 1, 2018 and February 1, 2019, Ad placed in print and online
versions of Little Hawk, the student paper of City High School.
43. November 13, 2018, Hosted informational sessions for those interested in
applying for Social Justice and Racial Equity grants.
44. November 15, 2018, Attendee, "Fired -Up About Reading" program at
Alexander Elementary School, sponsored by Iowa City Fire Department.
45. November 20, 2018, Human Rights Commission's funding form updated to
online form making it more accessible to community organizations that apply
for sponsorships.
46. November 29, 2018, Updated website to include more recent list of area
immigration attorneys and non-profit entities serving immigrant residents and
their families.
47. November 30, 2018, Presenter, "Mediation in the Wild: New Options, New
Practices" conference.
48. December 1, 2018, Iowa City featured in Go Guide for being one of three
cities in Iowa to earn a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign's
Municipal Equality Index, a measure of how friendly a city is to LGBTQ+
people.
49. December 3, 2018, Attendee, Government Alliance on Race and Equity
monthly meeting.
50. December 6, 2018, Participant, League of Human and Civil Rights Agencies
Executive Committee meeting.
51. December 10, 2018, Participant/Co-writer, Public information video regarding
service animals in public accommodations.
52. December 10, 2018, Co-sponsor and Attendee, "Remembering the Holocaust
in a Global Society in Turmoil," a lecture commemorating the 70th Anniversary
of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
53. December 12, 2018, Posted Fair Housing Choice survey on website to seek
community input on impediments to fair housing choice. Survey form emailed
rd
to 679 people on Housing Choice Voucher waiting list as well as community
organizations, including notice regarding how to obtain/take survey without
owning a computer.
54. December 17, 2018, Attendee, "Can I Say That? Ethical and Effective
Communication in Iowa's Increasingly Diverse Landscape."
55. December 17, 2018, Sponsor, "Board and Commission Training 101."
56. January 14, 2019, Placed recurring ad in print and online versions of the Daily
Iowan.
57. January 18, 2019, Presenter, Liberty High School Dr. Martin Luther King Day
Celebration.
58. January 21, 2019, Co-sponsor and Attendee, Dr. Martin Luther King Day
celebration and day of service events.
59. January 23, 2019, Co-sponsor and Attendee, Lecture by Ron Stallworth in
conjunction with a screening of "BlacKkKlansman," the true story of Mr.
Stallworth's undercover police work infiltrating the KKK in the 1970's.
60. January 25, 2019, Attendee, League of Human Rights Agencies meeting.
61. January 28, 2019, Placed ad in print and online versions of Daily Iowan's
annual Rental Guide.
62. February 1, 2019, Placed ad in February issue of GoGuide.
63. February 7, 2019, Presenter, University of Iowa class entitled, "Introduction
to Human Rights."
64. February 12, 2019, Attendee, Legal Aid (Iowa City Regional Office) Advisory
Council Meeting.
65. February 14, 2019, Participant, Civil Rights Panel Commemorating Black
History Month.
66. February 20, 2019, Presenter, University of Iowa class entitled "Introduction
to Law."
67. February 23, 2019, Co-sponsor, 5th Annual PrideCon 2019 LGBTQ+ Youth
Summit.
68. February 27, 2019, Presenter, BUILD (Building University of Iowa Leadership
for Diversity Initiative) class "What's Law Got to Do With It?"
69. March through August 2019, Hosted Human Rights Office Student Intern.
70. March 3, 2019, Co-sponsor, Civil Rights Soul Food Dinner.
71. March 20-23, 2019, Attendee, WPC 20 (White Privilege Conference, 20th
year).
72. March 29, 2019, Sponsor, Government Alliance on Race and Equity trainings
entitled "Advancing Racial Equity: The Role of Government" and "Community
Engagement."
73. April 1, 2019, Inserted housing discrimination ad in Iowa City resident's utility
bills, encouraging reporting of any discrimination experienced. As was also
published on social media, including but not limited to Nextdoor, Facebook,
and Twitter.
74. April 5, 2019, Published memoranda entitled "Guidance on Criminal
Background Checks in Housing" and "Guidance on Criminal Background
Checks in Hiring." These were placed on the City website and sent to area
landlords and business owners.
3
75. April 8, 2019, Attendee, Government Alliance on Race and Equity monthly
meeting.
76. April 8, 2019, Participant, League of Human and Civil Rights Agencies
Executive Committee meeting.
77. April 17, 2019, Attendee, 2019 Civil Rights Conference in Lincoln, NE.
78. April 23, 2019, Attendee, League of Human and Civil Rights Agencies
meeting.
79. April 23, 2019, Sponsor, Landlord Fair Housing Training featuring sessions
on Assistance Animals, Reasonable Accommodation and Reasonable
Modification.
80. April 25, 2019, Attendee, LGBTQ+ Municipal Services webinar sponsored by
the Human Rights Campaign.
81. April 25, 2019, Attendee, Disaster Response Training.
82. April 30, 2019, Participant, City staff book discussion of Heartland: a memoir
of working hard and being broke in the richest country on earth.
83. May 1, 2019, Renewed membership in Race Forward: The Center for Racial
Justice Innovation.
84. May 1, 2019, Placed ad in GoGuide Summer of Pride issue.
85. May 6, 2019, Co-sponsor, An Evening of Chinese Performing Arts.
86. May 8, 2019, Sponsor, 17th Annual Human Rights Youth Awards.
87. May 16, 2019, Co-sponsor, Civil Rights Tour Documentary Screening and
panel discussion.
88. May 22, 2019, Attendee, Humanize My Hoodie Workshop.
89. May 30, 2019, Attendee, ADA online training, featuring Geoff Ames.
90. May 31, 2019, Attendee, Leadership on LGBTQ Equality webinar sponsored
by the Human Rights Campaign.
91. June 15, 2019, Sponsor, Iowa City Pride Fest.
92. June 12, 2019, Renewed ad in print and online versions of the Daily Iowan
for the summer.
93. June 14, 2019, Attendee, Trailblazer Awards, celebrating local civil rights
leaders.
94. June 17, 2019, Attendee, 9th Annual Iowa City Area Juneteenth Celebration.
95. June 28, 2019, Attendee, "Lunch & Listen" session sponsored by the Iowa
Commission on the Status of African -Americans.
96. June 28, 2019, Sponsor, 65th Anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education
Celebration with Inclusive Teaching Awards.
Commission Financial Sponsorships for FYI
Back to School Summer Jam (August 2018)
Refugee and Immigrant Recognition Dinner (October 2018)
Black Voices Project Thanksgiving Meal (November 2018)
"Remembering the Holocaust in a Global Society in Turmoil," a lecture
commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
(December 2018)
C1
Lecture by Ron Stallworth in conjunction with a screening of "BlacKkKlansman,"
the true story of Mr. Stallworth's undercover police work infiltrating the KKK in the
1970's (December 2018)
Night of 1000 Dinners (March 2019)
Archibald Alexander Elementary PTO Father -Daughter, Mother -Son Night (March
2019)
Iowa Chinese Association: An Evening of Chinese Performing Arts (May 2019)
Overview of the Complaint Process
Title Two of the City Code (Human Rights Ordinance) prohibits unlawful
discrimination in the areas of education, housing, employment, public
accommodation and credit. The characteristics covered are: age, color, creed,
disability, familial status', gender identity, marital status, national origin,
presence/absence of dependents', public assistance source of income', race,
religion, retaliation, sex, and sexual orientation. As of June 1, 2016, the definition
of "public assistance source of income" was expanded to include Housing Choice
Vouchers, commonly known as "Section 8," as well as other rental subsidies.
'Housing only.
A person claiming to be aggrieved by an unlawful discriminatory practice or act
must file a complaint within three -hundred days of the alleged discrimination. Staff
of the Human Rights Commission investigate complaints alleging discrimination.
Staff serve as neutral fact finders and do not represent either party in the complaint
process.
1. Filing: The complainant (the person who alleges the discrimination) fills out,
signs and dates a complaint form.
2. Jurisdictional Review: A dated and signed complaint is reviewed by staff to
determine whether it meets the legal requirements. If the complaint does not
meet jurisdictional requirements, the complainant is notified and the
complaint is closed.
3. Notice: Within twenty days of the file date (seven days for housing complaints)
a copy of the complaint is sent certified mail to the respondent
(individual/business/organization accused of discrimination) along with a
questionnaire and document request. A copy of the complaint is also sent to
the complainant by certified mail.
4. Answer: The respondent is required to provide an answer to the allegation(s)
of discrimination and submit any requested records or relevant documents
within thirty days of receipt. (Fifteen days in the case of housing complaints.)
7
5. Screening: All information is reviewed to determine whether further
investigation is warranted. If staff finds that there is a reasonable possibility
of a probable cause determination or the legal issues present in the complaint
need further development, staff continue the investigation of the complaint. A
complaint determined by staff not to warrant further processing is
administratively closed. The complainant and respondent are promptly
notified of the administrative closure via certified mail. A complainant may
object to the administrative closure within ten (10) days of service by filing a
written request for review that states the basis for the objection. If after review
it is determined that the complaint does not warrant further processing, staff
will close the file and notify the complainant and respondent via certified mail.
No further action is taken on the complaint.
6. Further Investigation: If the complaint is found to warrant further investigation
both the complainant and respondent may be interviewed and additional
documents/records requested. Witnesses and other persons with knowledge
concerning the allegations in the complaint may also be contacted and
interviewed. When the investigation is complete, staff analyze all the collected
information and write a Data Analysis & Complaint Determination with a
recommendation regarding whether probable cause exists on the complaint.
7. Right to sue: After the complaint has been on file for sixty days, the
complainant has the option of pursing the matter in a state district court. If this
option is taken, and all requirements have been fulfilled, staff close the
complaint and issue a right to sue letter to the complainant. No further action
is taken on the complaint by staff. The issuance of a right to sue has no
bearing on the merits of the allegations contained in the complaint. It simply
is an option the law grants to complainants.
8. The parties may agree to mediation at any point in the complaint process (if
both parties agree to attempt mediation). If successful, the complaint is
closed/withdrawn upon satisfaction of the agreement reached in the
mediation. If not successful, the investigation continues.
9. Finding: The Human Rights Coordinator makes the final decision on whether
probable cause exists on each complaint.
a. If probable cause is found, the complaint will move to conciliation.
b. If probable cause is not found, staff informs both the complainant and
respondent of the decision by certified mail.
10. Conciliation: The Human Rights Coordinator attempts to conciliate or resolve
the complaint.
11. Public Hearing: When conciliation is unsuccessful, the complaint file will be
reviewed by the City Attorney, who shall form an opinion as to whether the
complaint is litigation worthy and make a recommendation to two
Commissioners. If both members of the Commission wish to proceed contrary
to the recommendation of the City Attorney, the Commissioners may
authorize the Human Rights Coordinator to proceed to a public hearing. A
complaint found not to be litigation worthy is closed.
FY 19 Complaint Statistics
Please note some complaints filed in fiscal year 2018 were closed in fiscal year
2019. Some complaints which were filed in fiscal year 2019 had not been closed
by the end of fiscal year 2019, creating the difference in numbers between those
opened and closed. Most complaints filed cite more than one basis for
discrimination, so totals will not be equal.
Complaint Activity
3i•] Jd »e1 I &I y I III-]'d:Tell *et eZd onIe1:7e[� :7 !;I [�3
FY 2018 FY2019
Age
8
8
Color
11
17
Creed
0
0
Disability
11
14'
Familial Status
2
3
Gender Identity
4
0
Marital Status
2
4
National Origin
2
3
Presence/Absence of
0
0
Dependents
Public Assistance Source of
0
1
Income
Race
19
25
Religion
4
0
Retaliation
13
18
Sex
9
4
Sexual Orientation
7
3
' 1 cited mental disability. 2 cited physical disability. and 11 cited disability only.
W
COMPLAINTS FILED BY AREA
Credit
0
1
Education
0
3
Employment
19
24
Housing
12
13
Public Accommodation
8
12
Complaints filed on ICRC form
1
1
Total Number of Complaints
40
542
N*001 r1IQz&I
Mediated
3
2
No Probable Cause
3
1
Administrative Closure
6
2
Right To Sue
0
0
Lack of Jurisdiction3
7
5
Outside of Jurisdiction4
8
17
Satisfactorily Adjusted
0
0
Withdrawn
1
2
Probable Cause
0
0
Closed, complainant non-
0
0
compliant5
Total Number of Resolutions
35
46
Summary
In FY19, employment was the area in which the most complaints were filed, with
24 complaints. Housing was second with 13, closely followed by public
accommodation with 12. There were 3 complaints in the area of education and one
credit complaint. In other words, an average of two employment, one housing, and
one public accommodations complaint were filed for each month of FY 19. Credit
and education complaints were not statistically significant.
z 49 complaints were filed in FYI 9. However, two complaints cited more than one area as the reason for
the discriminatory action.
s `Lack of Jurisdiction' refers to complaints that allege discrimination on a basis or in an area not covered
by Title 2 of the Iowa City Code.
° Category added in FYI to reflect complaints filed but that occurred outside of Iowa City.
Category added in FYI to reflect those complainants who file, but then do not cooperate with the
investigative process to the extent the complaint must be closed. This occurred in FY15, but has not
happened since.
10
The most common basis cited for alleged discriminatory conduct, with 25
complainants alleging it, was race. This was followed by 18 complaints alleging
retaliation and 17 complaints alleging the basis of color. Complaints alleging
disability as a basis numbered 14. There were 8 complaints alleging age. Marital
Status and Sex were each alleged in 4 complaints, while Familial Status, National
Origin, and Sexual Orientation were each alleged 3 times. Public Assistance
Source of Income was alleged once. The remaining bases were not claimed in
FY 19.
In FY18, employment, housing, and public accommodation were in the same
positions, with 19 complaints of employment discrimination, 12 complaints in the
area of housing, and 8 in public accommodation. There were no complaints in the
areas of education or credit. The most common basis cited for alleged
discriminatory conduct, with 19 complainants alleging it, was race. This was
followed by 13 complaints alleging retaliation, and 11 complaints each alleging the
basis of disability and color. Sex, age, and sexual orientation followed with 9, 8,
and 7 complaints respectively. The remaining bases were alleged 5 or fewer times
each.
Resolutions are usually not addressed in this summary, but the unusual number
of "Outside of Jurisdiction" closures in FY19 merits explanation. The office has
recently expanded outreach efforts, and the number of these closures may reflect
the success of those efforts. In FY19, the number of people filing complaints from
surrounding areas in Johnson County greatly increased. Staff does not turn
anyone away; all visitors and complaint filers are assisted. When a person from a
surrounding area files a complaint, staff will provide the service of forwarding it to
the Iowa Civil Rights Commission for processing instead of instructing the person
to do so themselves6 and potentially confusing them.
Approved
6It is office policy to use "they, them, their, etc." as gender -neutral singular pronouns.
11
Agenda Item 5d
36th Annual Human Rights Awards Breakfast
The awards will be presented at the annual awards breakfast beginning at
7:15 a.m. (the program starts promptly at 7:30a.m. and ends by 8:30 a.m.) on
Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2019, at the Hilton Garden Inn Iowa City Downtown University.
Breakfast tickets are available 36thawardsbreakfast.eventbrite.com at the early bird rate of$20 per ticket
and go up to $25 per ticket on October 14. All tickets must be purchased by October 18.
No tickets are sold at the door.
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Dr. Melissa Shivers, Vice President for Student Life at the University of Iowa,
will deliver the keynote address.
If you wil l need disability -related accommodations In order to participate in this CITY OF IOWA CITY
event please contactthe Equity Director, Stefanie Bowers ,at319-356-5022orat CITY OF IOWA CITY I Office of Equity
stefanle-bowers@iowa-ait, org_ Ea rly requests are stranSly encouraged to a l low UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE
sufficient time to meetyouraccess needs_ &Human Rights
Agenda Item 5h
SIRE Application #
The rubric has three sections: part 1, Organizational Information, worth 10 points: part
two, Proposal, worth 60 points; part three, Funding Amount, worth 30 points. The
highest score achievable on an application is 100 points.
1. First, please rate the organizational information (Up to 10 points).
Organizational
Points
A. Goals of the organization for 2019 align with social justice or racial equity:
B. Mission statement of the organization aligns with social justice or racial equity:
C. Does the organization have a history of accomplishment:
D. Evaluator's Own Criteria:
E. Evaluator's Own Criteria:
F. Evaluator's Own Criteria:
Comments regarding the organizational information:
Total Points this section:
2. Second, please rate the proposal (Up to 60 points).
Proposal
Points
A. Program, service, or activity advances social justice or racial equity:
B. There is a need in the community for this program, service, or activity:
C. Program, service or activity will have a significant impact on community
members:
D. Program, service or activity has tools that will be shared with others and are
beneficial to community:
E. Program, service or activity has specific outcomes and performance
measures:
F. Program, service or activity is sustainable in the community after SJRC grant
funding would end (Applicant includes a plan for continuing the program,
service or activity beyond the grant period):
G. Timeline for service, project or activity provides for specific time frame for
actions:
H. Evaluator's Own Criteria:
I. Evaluator's Own Criteria:
J. Evaluator's Own Criteria:
Comments regarding the proposal:
Total Points this section:
3. Third, please rate the funding amount requested (Up to 30 points).
Funding Requested
Points
A. Amount requested would cover the service, project or activity:
B. Proposal includes a budget that clearly outlines how the funding would be spent:
C. Evaluator's Own Criteria:
D. Evaluator's Own Criteria:
E. Evaluator's Own Criteria:
Comments regarding the proposal's funding request (please include as much information as
you can to facilitate the funding decision process):
Total Points this section:
OVERALL SCORE: out of 100
attending
informational session
on the Grant.
This is an opportunity to learn about the origins, purpose, process, and timeline forthe grant
as well as useful tips on filling out the application with plenty of time for Q & A.
Two sessions offered:
Monday, November11 Monday, November11
12:00 pm-1:15 pm
Emma Harvat Hall
City Hall
410 E. Washington Street
5:30 pm-6:45 pm
Emma Harvat Hall
City Hall
410 E. Washington Street
RSVP to https://sjre.eventbrite.com
Attendance is not mandatory to apply forth efunding but strongly encouraged.
For more information, please contact the City's Equity Director at
stefanie-bowers@iowa-city.org or call 319-356-5022.
If you will need disability -related accommodations in amer to participate in this event please
contact the above name and number Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficlenttl me to meet your access needs.
(„. @ichumanrights
CITY OF IOWA CITY
UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE
CITY OF IOWA CITY
Office of Equity
&Human Rights
The City Council has approved grant funding for Iowa City
based organizations to help address social justice
and racial equity (SJRE) in the community.
The purpose of the funding is to encourage, empower and engage social
justice and racial equity initiatives. TheSJREfunding isavailabletc) for -
prof it and non-profit Iowa City based organizations to fund programs,
activities, or services that help to eliminate inequities in the community
Total funding available for fiscal year 2020
is $75,000, which will be divided among the
recipients. Applications will be accepted
December 2, 2019—January 3,2020.
The application will be available online at
www.icgov.org/SJREgrantapplication starting on December 3.The
Iowa City Human Rights CommissionwiII review all appI Lcations and
make funding recommendations tothe City CounciIfor final approval no
later than March 31, 2020. Funding will be awarded by June 1, 2020.
6 priority service areas are:
1. Education
* Building Community
3. Housing
4. Criminal Justice
5. Health
& Employment
For more information contact
the City's Equity Director at
stefanie-bowers@iowa-city.org
or call319-356-5022.
(„. @ichumanrights
CITY OF IOWA CITY
UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE
CITY OF IOWA CITY
Office of Equity
&Human Rights
US College Life 101
DESCRIPTION
This is a new program offered by the Refugee and Immigrant Association. The primary purpose of the 12-week
class is to familiarize new and soon -to -be college students with the norms, expectations, and daily life of being
a college or university student in the United States. The first 6 weeks of the class will be for students and the
second 6 weeks will be for their parents. Topics will include:
• Time management: balancing classes, homework, extracurriculars, and a social life
• Expectations for homework and exams
• Relationships with professors and staff
• Academic and other campus resources and supports
• Clubs, student orgs, and athletic teams
• Being a first -generation US college student
• And much, much more!
The first 45 minutes of class will focus on the main topic of the day's class, including questions about the
topic. The last 15 minutes of every class will be devoted to questions and discussion about any topic related to
US college life of interest to attendees.
LOCATION AND TIME
Kirkwood Community College, Room 205. Mondays, 7-8pm. Beginning 9 September 2019.
CONTACT Mira
Questions about the program? Contact Jean Paul Mugemuzi, President of the Refugee and
Immigrant Association, at refu¢eeiowa@gmail.com or 347.414.1121 or the instructors.
INSTRUCTORS
JL ' Dr. Peter Gerlach Is Summer Institute Coordinator at the International Writing Program and Assistant Adjunct Professor In the
International Studies Program at the University of Iowa. He received his BA and MA degrees In English from Ripon College and
the University of Northern Colorado, respectively. After serving as a university teacher in the US Peace Corps In Mongolia, he
earned a PhD In Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. Since 2004, Dr. Gerlach has taught a variety of
university -level courses In both English and Education departments, Including Introductory Composition, English as a Foreign
Language, College Learning Strategies, and Seminar In International Education. He has been a Refugee and Immigrant
Association board member since February 2019. His small is peter-gerlach@uiowa.edu.
Mr. Boumedlen Kasha Is Program Specialist with the Iowa Accountability Program (IAP), Iowa State Court Administrator's
Office at the Iowa Judicial Branch. He received his Master of Laws (LLM) degree in May 2015 from the University of Iowa -
College of Law. Prior to that, he earned his AAS degree in Financial Services In December 2011 from Kirkwood Community
College and his Bachelor of Law degree In 1996 from the University of Lubumbashi, In the Democratic Republic of Congo, his
native country. Mr. Kasha Is one of the founders of the Refugee and Immigrant Association, established In 2013, and has been
aboard member since the founding. His email Is sasakasha4@gmall.com.
The following documents were handed
out during the meeting.
Anita Hill, Professor in Social Policy, Law, Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies at Brandeis
University - Presentation: January 23, 2020
Anita Hill (June 17, 2019) made history in 1991 when she testified before Congress about the
sexual harassment she said she had experienced while she was an aide to Clarence Thomas, a Supreme
Court nominee who had been her supervisor at the f gttal Ernployment Opportunity Commission. One of
the big discussions of the Kavanaugh hearing was, you know, what should've happened to Christine
Blasey Pord's complaint. Even though it was out there. it was known, there was no way for her to know
how to be heard. We also know that in the process they put together at the last minute, there was this
chilling effect— there may have been other witnesses who might've come forward.
With the advent of the #MeToo movement, Professor Hill has been speaking out again. She
most recently made news when she critji('.ized presidential candidate and former Vice President Joe
Biden for his handling of the Thomas hearings. She spoke with Jessica Bennett, gender editor at The New
York Times, at the New RuIcs Sijrnmit on c 2� Pots last week Excerpts from conversation have
been edited and condensed.
We have cultural problems, and cultural acceptance of it, and around the cultural acceptance
were structures that are built to support it. And that includes some legal structures that were built. The
nondisclosure agreements that are put into place, the forced mediation around claims of abuse in the
workplace — those were things that are actually contributing greatly to an ongoing problem. We didn't
really understand the complexity of it in 1991.
The #MeToo movement came about because we started to understand the complexity of it,
and, I will say, because the press started covering it. And if you don't have all of those things coming
together, you're not going to have the kind of reckoning that actually engages people and puts together
the stories and the analysis that will make for a #MeToo movement, and that invites everyone to engage
in the conversation.
Total Cost $40,000 (honorarium/expenses)
Potential Co-sponsors:
UI Center of Human Rights $300
The Obermann Center $300
UI Law School
VP Student Life Office
UI President's Office
Lecture Committee $25-30,000
Africa and the Lloly Land
Event: Show two documentary films, followed by panel discussion, then Q & A
Date: TBA (Black History Month 2020)
Ancient Connections Between Black People and Christianity
"Too many people think there are no Africans, no black people in the Bible. I hear some African
Americans turning off to Christianity saying, "It's the white man's religion." For so long, we saw nothing
but pictures of white people in our Bibles and Sunday school books. Then there's another group that turns
off to truth saying, ANhat difference does it make what color biblical peoples were?" After being exposed
to the truth, J decided to produce a film unearthing black biblical history for reconciliation on the issue of
race and the Bible. Witnessing the black presence in Israel gave me a more intimate and personal
connection to the place where Jesus walked_ To make an authentic, historically accurate film. I went with
a film crew from I toward University and two biblical scholars to Israel. We were assisted by the African
Ilebrew community in Israel in finding living evidence of black people in biblical history. Blacks lived
there before Jesus, during Jesus' time and many live there now." Paula Malabanc December 15, 2018
Budget:
Total Cost $3475
Documentary Producer: Rev. Dr. Paula Whatley Matabane, Turner Monumental A.M.E. Church,
Atlanta, GA. (Professor Emerita Howard University Washington, DC.)
Documentary Editor: S. Torriano Berry, Film Professor Howard University Washington, DC.
Panelist: Rev. Dr. Bridgitt Black, Wayman A.M.E. Church, Bloomington, IL
Honorariums
$2000
Airfare/Mileage
$600
Hotel rooms
$425
Food
$200
Facility
$250
Potential Co -Sponsors;
-UI Lecture Committee
-UI African American Studies $300
-Bethel A.M.E. Church Iowa City $300
-IC Human Rights
-UI Department of Religion