HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-27-2025 Human Rights Commission Human Rights Commission
May 27, 2025
Regular Meeting — 5:30 PM
Emma Harvat Hall, City Hall
Agenda:
1. Call the Meeting to Order and Roll Call.
2. Reading of the Native American Land Acknowledgement.
3. Public Comment of Items not on the Agenda.
Commentators shall address the commission for no more than five minutes.
Commissioners shall not engage in discussion with the public concerning said
items.
4. Approval of the April 22, 2025, and May 13, 2025, meeting minutes.
5. Correspondence.
6. Sponsorship Request: Welcome Week.
7. Juneteenth (June 19).
s. Pride Celebration (June 21).
9. Party in the Park (Thursdays from June 12 - August 14, 2025).
10. Human Rights Grant Recommendations to City Council for fiscal year 2025
Update.
11. Reports of Commissioners and Staff. This item includes an opportunity for very
brief updates from staff and commissioners. Commissioners cannot engage in
discussion on any reports.
12. Next Regular Meeting: June 24, 2025.
13. Adjournment
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all City of Iowa City- sponsored
events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation
in order to participate in this meeting, please contact the Office of Human Rights at 319-
356-5022 or email humanrights(djowa-city.org. Early requests are strongly encouraged
to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
Agenda Item# 2
Native American land Acknowledgement
Prepared for the City of Iowa City's Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Human
Rights Commission
PURPOSE
Iowa City owes its existence to the many Indigenous Peoples who were the original stewards of this land
and who were subjected to manipulation and violence by non-native settlers, invaders, and governments
in order to make this moment possible.Acknowledgement of this truth is central to our work toward
reconciliation across all barriers of difference and injustice. Starting with a Native American Land
Acknowledgement, this Commission will bear witness to the legacies of violent displacement, migration,
and settlement that have marginalized those who were the first inhabitants of this land. We must also
address the mistreatment and exclusion that Native Americans continue to face today.The Ad Hoc Truth
and Reconciliation Commission and the Human Rights Commission encourage the community and City of
Iowa City to join us in these efforts through the use of a Native American Land Acknowledgement.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
To be read at all public meetings and events:
"We meet today in the community of Iowa City, which now occupies the homelands of
Native American Nations to whom we owe our commitment and dedication. The area of
Iowa City was within the homelands of the Iowa, Meskwaki, and Sauk, and because
history is complex and time goes far back beyond memory, we also acknowledge the
ancient connections of many other Indigenous Peoples here. The history of broken
treaties and forced removal that dispossessed Indigenous Peoples of their homelands
was and is an act of colonization and genocide that we can not erase. We implore the
Iowa City community to commit to understanding and addressing these injustices as we
work toward equity, restoration, and reparations."
LEARN MORE
Native Governance Center Guide to Indigenous Land Acknowledgement
US Department of Arts and Culture: Honor Native Land Virtual Resources and Guide
Meskwaki Nation - History
Special thanks to the University of Iowa Native American Council for their work and guidance, as well as
members of the public,for their input.
Draft Minutes
Human Rights Commission
April 22, 2025
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Commissioners present: Doug Kollasch, Emily Harkin, Mark Pries, Kelsey Paul Shantz,Viana Qadoura.
Commissioners on Zoom: Lubna Mohamed, Idriss Abdullahi.
Commissioners absent: Roger Lusala, Elizabeth Mendez-Shannon.
Staff present:Tre Hall,Stefanie Bowers.
Recommendation to City Council: No.
Meeting called to order: 5:31 PM.
Native American Land Acknowledgement: Pries read the Land Acknowledgement.
Public Comment of Items not on the Agenda: Kollasch took time to acknowledge the passing of Pope Francis,
who was a champion of human rights.
Approval of meeting minutes of April 1, 2025: Pries moved, and Paul Shantz seconded. Motion passed 5-0.
Updates on Outreach and Engagement by the Police Department: Community Outreach Assistant,Tre Hall
updated the commission on the police department's work, starting with Joshua Dabusu work with immigrant
and refugee outreach. Dabusu attended a meeting with Hispanic pastors to partner with Hispanic youth at the
Church of Nazarene in order to collaborate and share ideas. Dabusu also met with one of the many African
associations who are interested in having the outreach division of the police department at the African
Festival this fall. Dabusu attended the Sudanese Iowan soccer club training with which he is heavily involved.
Joshua also attended the Immigrant Welcome Network of Johnson County and plans to bring an officer with
him to the group's next story series. Hall then spoke of Ann Thompson,victim service coordinator, and her
work attending the National Crime Victim Rights Week at the library. Hall spoke of the outreach team's
monthly meetings between Shelter House and himself, Sergeant Nieland, and sometimes Christy Davis, mental
health liaison crisis co-responder. Hall then spoke of an email he received earlier that day from Jess Lang from
the County Attorney's Office about an event they will be hosting.
Paul Shantz asked Hall if there is a noticeable affect regarding funding towards planned programming or
outreach efforts. Hall answered that the police department's outreach doesn't take much funding besides the
pre-planned events that are worked into the budget. Hall reported that it does not appear to be an issue at
the time. Paul Shantz asked if the groups the outreach team partners with are being affected, to which Hall
responded he has not seen a change.
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Community Conversations: Paul Shantz updated the group on her work with implementing community
conversations to better support community members.The work is ongoing, but Paul Shantz has received more
information about how to go about the project through conversations she has had independently with
community members. Paul Shantz hopes to set some dates for a community conversation event sometime in
May. Paul Shantz will share more information with the commission as she knows more.
Know Your Rights Event: Harkin shared information from an email regarding the event.There was a successful
meeting between Mendez-Shannon and Escucha Mi Voz Iowa.
Statement by the Commission Regarding the Removal of Gender Identity under Iowa Civil Rights Act:The
commission reviewed a draft statement regarding the issue. Pries added a call to action and changed some
language throughout. Kollasch read the statement aloud and opened the floor to suggestions. Pries moved to
adopt the statement. Paul Shantz seconded. Before a final vote, Harkin suggested a grammar correction. Pries
commented on the content in the middle paragraph referencing the history of these actions. Harkin
questioned the impact of including current statistics of these actions and how it is currently affecting the
groups mentioned in the letter. Pries stated he does not have access to the statistics. Paul Shantz agreed it is a
good idea, however it may be best to share current statistics within the communication that accompanies the
statement. Harkin agreed to gathering current statistics to provide alongside the statement. Staff agreed to
include information provided along with the statement.
Motion passed 6-0. (Qadoura abstained)
Pries mentioned he has had inquiries about other groups and individuals co-signing a statement like this from
the commission. Staff noted it is not traditionally done. Kollasch offered the idea that the individuals
interested can share the statement once it is published and note they agree.
Human Rights Grant:The Commission reviewed grant updates from 2024 recipients. Open Heartland updated
the commission on their feast project, English classes,women's leadership developments,youth enrichment
camp and an event with the Folklore Dance group. CommUnity Crisis Services and Foodbank also updated the
commission on their use of the money to purchase ethnic and culturally appropriate food for their clients.
Pries commented that he enjoys seeing the reports and pictures of the work done. Paul Shantz commented
that it is worth highlighting that due to current legislation and scare tactics regarding immigration Open
Heartland had to close in January and February to protect their community and the families that use their
service. Paul Shantz stated it is worth recognizing the stress these issues create for many people including
grant recipients. Paul Shantz thanked Open Heartland for their transparency in having to make that decision
and for their work in supporting the community. Kollasch also took a moment to recognize the way in which
Open Heartland has adapted to the threats mentioned earlier, including moving their English classes online.
Kollasch referred to the list of applicants for the 2025 Human Rights Grant. Kollasch stated it is important for
commissioners to review the list and report to staff any conflicts of interest they may have with an applicant.
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Pries confirmed with staff that his involvement in any applying groups does not impact his judgement of
applications. Staff confirmed any conflict of interest can be noted to her in an email. Staff also mentioned that
the next step for commissioners will be to review applications via the app used for submissions. It was agreed
that Tuesday, May 13th will be set for a meeting to discuss final scores on all grant applications and determine
the recommendation to City Council.
Paul Shantz asked about the need for tallying votes. Staff stated the system in which the applications were
submitted will tally votes overall. However, if the commission would like specific details noted per applicant,
the office can provide some information regarding previous funding received from the City, and other details
regarding an applicants history. Pries asked if it is possible to see all comments made by each commissioner.
Staff confirmed,yes. Paul Shantz suggested committing to finishing reviews a few days before the standing
meeting (May 13th) in order for commissioners to review each other's thoughts and get an idea of where
everyone stands with each applicant. It was agreed to set a deadline for reviews.A deadline for reviews was
set for Saturday, May 10th so staff can share all completed reviews amongst commissioners before their
official meeting Tuesday, May 13th
Staff&Commission Updates:
Staff: Confirmed the Human Rights Commission email test was successful amongst commissioners to ensure
they are in the loop for human rights updates and announcements.
Pries:Shared he watched an interview of Kevin Young, the executive director of the African American Museum
in Washington D.C., and stated it was extraordinary to learn about the museum, however it was disheartening
to learn Kevin Young has since resigned his position.
Harkin: Shared there was a Take Back the Night rally happening this evening.
Kollasch: Shared he will be in Washington D.C. for the World Pride Celebration as well as a Human Rights
Conference he will attend leading up to the celebration.
Paul Shantz:Shared that the month of April is defacto atrocity prevention month which responds to and
addresses "what happens to one of us happens to all of us" and fights for human rights. She also shared there
are threats to civil society across the country including threats to 501(c)(3) organizations and tax-exempt
groups. She encouraged anyone present or listening to donate funds or resources to their favorite local groups
and to ask employers to match contributions. Paul Shantz also shared information about a potential
uncertainty of the Endow Iowa Tax Credit program and that any donation before that ends may be valuable to
Iowa-based organizations.
Qadoura: Shared herself, Mendez-Shannon, and Lusala attended the Neighborhood Centers Gala. It was
stated that the event was wonderful and inspiring. Qadoura also updated the commission on the soup event
she mentioned last meeting that took place at the Coralville Library. She stated the supper was successful with
a positive turnout. Qadoura shared upcoming events including Palestine Hope for Change on April 26th at the
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First United Methodist Church, an Arab Heritage Month event during Chat and Chai at the Coralville Public
Library on Tuesday, April 29th, the NAMI Walk at Terry Trueblood on May 10th, and the Coralville Asian Festival
on May 17th
Idris: Shared there is a Human Library Event on April 27th at the Iowa City Public Library where community
members come and share their stories and is an opportunity for people to learn about any potential
prejudices community members are currently facing.
Adjourned: 6:15 PM.
The meeting can be viewed at https://www.citychannel4.com/video.html?series=Local%2OGovernment.
4 1 P a g e
Human Rights Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2024/2025
Meetin Date
TERM 1/23 2/27 314 3/26 4/23 5/28 7/23 8/27 9/24 11/26 12/12 1/28 2/25 4/1 4/22 5/27
NAME EXP.
JahnaviPandya 2024 X X X X X X X X A A - - - - -
Emily Harkin 2027 - - - - - - - - - P - P P X P
Doug Kollasch 2027 X X X X X X Z X X P - P P X P
Viana Qadoura 2025 X X X X X X X X X P - A A X P
Idriss Abdullahi 2025 - - - - X Z X Z A P - P A A Z
Mark Pries 2025 X A X X X X X X X P - A P X P
Roger Lusala 2026 X X X A X X X X X P - P P A A
Kelsey Paul Shantz 2026 X X X X Z X X A X P - P A X P
Liz Mendez-Shannon 2026 X X X A Z X X A X A - P P X A
Lubna Mohamed 2027 - - - - - - - - - - - Z A Z Z
KEY: X= Present
A = Absent
Z = Present via Zoom
Draft Minutes
Human Rights Commission
May 13, 2025
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Commissioners present: Kelsey Paul Shantz,Viana Qadoura, Mark Pries.
Commissioners on Zoom: Emily Harkin, Doug Kollasch.
Commissioners absent: Lubna Mohamed, Roger Lusala, Elizabeth Mendez-Shannon.
Staff present:Stefanie Bowers.
Recommendation to City Council:Yes.
Meeting called to order: 5:35 PM.
Native American Land Acknowledgement: Pries read the Land Acknowledgement.
Public Comment of Items not on the Agenda: None.
Ames to Host Conference for Commissioners:The conference will be held June 7, 2025, from 10 AM- 3
PM. It was undecided who will attend. Paul Shantz suggested reviewing the details of the event in case
someone can attend and plans to check her own calendar to potentially attend the conference.
Youth Awards Update and Details: Staff asked for commissioners to arrive a little before 6:00. Staff
informed the commission there will be 37 recipients and the order of the event will go as follows:
• Opening: Paul Shantz
• Brief Remarks: Mayor Teague
• Announcements of Honorees: Kollasch
o Awards: Lusala & Mendez-Shannon
• Closing Remarks: Pries
Human Rights Grant: The commission discussed each application and their thoughts on each one. Paul
Shantz provided a breakdown of each organization's average score (given from commissioner's reviews),
and a ranking of the total averages.
• Open Heartland: Open Heartland's application focuses on their ID Program which seeks to support
immigrant families in Johnson County by offering workshops, trainings, activities, resources, etc.
The program empowers immigrant communities to champion their rights. The requested amount
is$12,644. Commissioners noted their confidence and admiration in the work of the organization,
however there were concerns about the sensitivity of the data on immigrants that would result
from a membership-based program. It was also expressed that the organization has seen a
decrease in participation due to recent federal action taken against immigrants.The commission
discussed that the group received the highest approval score amongst applicants. It was also noted
the group has received Human Rights Grant funding in previous years (2021, 2022, 2024). Partial
funding was agreed on for a grant of$4,000. After being revisited, it was noted there are
additional funding initiatives such as driving safety pamphlets, health record form copies, and
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translation button for website update. It was agreed to increase the funding to a partial funding
total of$6,400.
o Requested: $12,644.00
o Recommended: $6,400.00
• Escucha Mi Voz: Escusha Mi Voz has requested funding for their Know Your Rights Workshops for
immigrants and allies, provisions for direct legal aid and housing support to immigrant families and
the training of immigrant leaders in rights-based advocacy and organizing. The requested amount
is $20,000. Commissioners discussed the immediate need for support amongst immigrant
communities within Iowa City. It was noted that Escucha Mi Voz has created strong relationships
that allow them to successfully achieve meaningful aid to immigrant families and their need for
legal assistance, housing, and other resources. It was also noted they have funding from other
outside organizations and have been a recipient of the grant in previous years. Partial funding was
suggested due to overlapping efforts, however this overlap was discussed with a focus on Escucha
Mi Voz's connections and ability to successfully provide aid where it is needed. It was also
discussed that by funding these efforts it may lead to more exposure and opportunity for Know
Your Rights workshops. Full funding was agreed on for the request of$20,000.
o Requested: $20,000.00
o Recommended: $20,000.00
• Great Plains Action Society: Great Plains Action Society is requesting grant funding for a project
that would convene the annual Truthsgiving celebration to educate on harmful colonialist myths
on indigenous history and culture, to garner media advocacy, and promote mutual aid
development and delivery. The requested amount is$20,000. Commissioners noted they have
funded Truthsgiving before and the Great Plains Action Society has received funding from the
Human Rights Grant in previous years (2022 and 2023), highlighting the idea that commissioners
don't want organizations to become reliant on the Commission's grant. The budget was discussed
amongst commissioners where they considered the group's need for exposure within the
community. Some partial funding was suggested with a focus on the group's efforts to have a
presence in the Englert Theatre. There was a discussion on the necessity of the content from the
programming as the exposure to Indigenous history will allow for a sense of belonging and
understanding amongst the Iowa City community. Commissioners agreed it is admirable the event
is growing, and they want to help fund that expansion. There was also recognition of the Land
Acknowledgement read at the beginning of each Human Rights Commission meeting that states
the need for reparations, which this grant can contribute to. Partial funding was agreed on for a
grant of$10,000. The commission revisited the Great Plains Action Society application with
remaining funds. It was suggested to allocate the remaining funds to Great Plains Action Society's
Truthsgiving event. After reviewing the budget an increased funding of$12,500 was agreed on in
order to cover the costs of the Englert Theatre. After reviewing applicants, the remaining funds
were granted to Great Plains Action Society. It was agreed to increase the funding to a partial
funding total of$15,415.
o Requested: $20,000.00
o Recommended: $15,415.00
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• Wright House of Fashion:The Wright House of Fashion is requesting proceeds that would go
toward Black student unions in High Schools in the Iowa City community in effort to build
community and support change within those spaces and the community as a whole. The requested
amount is$14,754. Commissioners stated their admiration of fashion and art to facilitate
community.There was also admiration for the organization's focus of 10 youth apprentices and
their potential to expand this sense of community across all Black Student Unions throughout
neighboring schools. Regarding budget, it was noted that the organization received grant money of
$100,000 from an outside organization (ARPA) as well. During the discussion of budget, staff
clarified that"artist fees" are eligible to be covered by grant funding if it is an artist's performance,
however an artist consultant may not be the City Attorney would have the final say.The
commission discussed the longevity of the project and considered how it may operate in the years
following.The discussion concluded that while the project may be a one-time effort it is still
beneficial for the Commission to contribute to in order to see the impact of their contribution.The
commission's previous contributions to this organization were considered. However,this
application is unique in its representation, as no other applicants represent Iowa City's Black youth
and their efforts. Partial funding was suggested in support of the field trip opportunity. Partial
funding was agreed on for a grant of$10,000. Additional funding was proposed to cover the full
cost of the field trip. It was reviewed that the field trip was covered by the already allocated funds.
o Requested: $14,754.00
o Recommended: $10,000.00
• Bike Library:The Iowa City Bike Library is requesting funding for a project to expand the outdoor
courtyard of the bike library to improve its functionality and comfort as well as connection through
community and educational events.The requested amount is$20,000. It was noted that the
creation of public goods and a third space for patrons provides a unique value to the Iowa City
community. It was noted the Bike Library has received funding from the Commission's grant
program in 2021.There was a collective confidence in the Bike Library's ability to make this project
happen as well as in their affiliation with partnering community organizations. It is reflected in
their budget, that the requested amount is a portion of their project costs. It was noted that the
efforts of the Bike Library not only meet the commission's goals, but also the City's goals in the
way it impacts climate and community.The consideration of funding a physical project versus
efforts towards a greater impact was discussed amongst commissioners. Partial funding was
proposed considering potential restrictions and delays in construction. Partial funding was agreed
on for a grant of$10,000.
o Requested: $20,000.00
o Recommended: $10,000.00
• Dream City: Dream City is requesting funding for a project that will develop a community strategic
plan, a roadmap that outlines collaborative strategies, and a Community Conversation series.The
requested amount is$15,000. In their application, both climate and community are highlighted in
their intended strategic plan, which not only answers to the Commission's goals, but the City's as
well. It was agreed this project is a great outreach effort and can help shift powers in the
community by informing leaders of individual's own lived experience and interest. When discussing
the budget, it was noted some details were left out with some catch-all categories listed. Due to
this, a partial funding was suggested with a focus on the community and planning aspects of the
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proposal. Partial funding was agreed on for a grant of$7,500. It was recommended to increase
the partial funding from $7,500 to $9,000 as previously discussed. The commission agreed to
increase the funding to a Partial funding total of$9,000.
o Requested: $15,000.00
o Recommended: $9,000.00
• Greater Iowa City Inc.: Greater Iowa City is requesting funding to support the inclusive economic
development collaboration created by and grounded in local, community-centered lived
experience. The requested amount is $3,000. Highlights from this application included their
coalition building aspects as well as the partner-centric model of working will well-placed, relevant
community groups. There was also an appreciation for the community-centered conversations
which will allow for a shared understanding and approach towards improvement. When discussing
their budget, the Commission noted budget restrictions regarding facilitators and how much of the
project the Commission would be allowed to fund. It was also noted there are no specifications on
dates or deadlines for the project. It was clarified that the grant runs for a year, so they have one
year to spend their money. It was also clarified that funds could be redirected if declared necessary
by City Council. Full funding was agreed on for the request of$3,000.
o Requested: $3,000.00
o Recommended: $3,000.00
• Immigrant Welcome Network of Johnson County:The Welcome Network is requesting funding for
their monthly community event Voices of Resilience that allows immigrant stories and voices to be
heard and to raise awareness about the systemic barriers faced by immigrants. As well as for the
purchase of a seven-passenger van for the transport of immigrant and refugee families to critical
services across Iowa City, Coralville, and Cedar Rapids. The requested amount is$20,000. It was
noted this request is a repeat request from last year's Grant applicants and was denied due to the
idea of providing funding for a van due to unforeseeable issues with the vehicle. It was suggested
to stick with that decision but to go forward with funding the conversation series. Partial funding
was agreed on for a grant of$7,000.
o Requested: $20,000.00
o Recommended: $7,000.00
• Unity Exchange (Mogul Consulting): Unity Exchange is requesting funds for four community
marketplace events that offer vending opportunities for entrepreneurs from marginalized
communities. These events will feature cultural performances, community conversations and
structural educational elements. The requested amount is$20,000. It was discussed that the
events proposed duplicate some of the other proposed efforts amongst this year's applications.
There was also concern of conflicts with other significant community events. When discussing the
budget, it was noted there are some proposed allocations that are not eligible for funding.
Highlights of the application are the cultural and celebratory aspects of the market. Partial funding
was recommended for the event costs while avoiding funding the vendor support. Another shared
concern is the outcome of participants due to the target demographic being immigrants and
minority communities during a time of uncertainty for these groups. Partial funding was agreed on
for a grant of$6,000.
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o Requested: $20,000.00
o Recommended: $6,000.00
• Restorative Community Works: Restorative Community Works is requesting funding for their
project of a public story telling initiative that centers the experiences of adults in Iowa City who
have impacted by the judicial system. This event includes a story preparation workshop as well as
the public forum where the stories will be shared. The requested amount is$20,000. The structure
of the proposal was appreciated by commissioners, and it was noted the breakdown of the event
as well as the future impact was helpful. It was also shared that the story telling initiative is very
powerful as it provides the space, the time, and the tools that provide awareness and lead to
change. There were concerns regarding the budget, noting questionable expenses under the
permissions of the grant allocation as well as saving opportunities by outsourcing resources. It was
noted this is a project with a unique voice (formerly incarcerated individuals) and it has a
protentional for longevity, as it can be repeated and extended to a broader audience. Partial
funding was agreed on for a grant of$12,000.
o Requested: $20,000.00
o Recommended: $12,000.00
• Community Inclusion Club: Community Inclusion Club is requesting funds for their efforts to
empower Iowa City community members with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
The project supports these individuals by developing the knowledge and skillset to voice their
concerns at the State and national level to collectively stand up for their rights. The requested
amount is $1,185. It was clarified the group would be creating a conversation that is informed by
the IDD community in order to foster advocacy and raise awareness to general audiences. It was
unanimously agreed that full funding would be granted. There was a note that due to the bulk of
the budget going towards T-shirts the organization could create a design they could use in the
future rather than for a one-time event. Full funding was agreed on for the request of$1,185.
o Requested: $1,185.00
o Recommended: $1,185.00
• BIPOC Healing Collective:The BIPOC Healing Collective is requesting funds to provide unique
mental health needs to BIPOC and minoritized individuals and communities. This would happen
through a combination of direct services, educational outreach, and advocacy.The project notes
16 therapy sessions to 40 clients totaling$80,000. The requested amount is$20,000. It was
noted, in support of the initiative, that systems work against the BIPOC population, referring to
systemic racism, so this is an opportunity for those communities to talk to someone. There were
concerns of limited access assuming there is one provider for all clients. There was uncertainty
amongst commissioners regarding where the funding is directed and if the grant restriction permit
said funding. While it was agreed this project is a commendable effort that is needed in the
community, due to uncertainty in funding and lack of details in the application the Commission
agreed there will not be funding for this project. While the Commission cannot provide funding, it
was suggested they provide resources and connection to the group so they can further their
efforts.
o Requested: $20,000.00
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o Recommended: $0.00
• Home 4 My Peeps: Home 4 My Peeps is requesting funds to establish a sustainable community on
50 acres of lands which integrate housing, regenerative agriculture, and renewable energy
systems.The requested amount is$20,000. It was noted there is support for the dream behind
this effort,with a focus on the effort towards housing. Conceptually, the project has more of a
focus on sustainability rather than human rights. It was also noted the application could have
benefitted from more details regarding the intended outcome behind each aspect proposed. Due
to a lack of details in the application and uncertainty behind certain efforts the Commission agreed
there will not be funding for this project. However, the applicant is encouraged to apply again
next year after taking into account the missing details in their application and making more of a
connection between their process, the outcome, and human rights.
o Requested: $20,000.00
o Recommended: $0.00
With funds remaining, the commission revisited previous applications they noted could benefit from
additional funding:
o Open Heartland
o Great Plains Action Society
o Wright House of Fashion
It was noted that these organizations being revisited are previous recipients of the grant.
Adjourned:8:31 PM.
The meeting can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/@citychannel4/videos.
6
Human Rights Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2024/2025
Meetin Date
TERM 1/23 2/27 314 3/26 4/23 5/28 7/23 8/27 9/24 11/26 12/12 1/28 2/25 4/1 4/22 5113
NAME EXP.
JahnaviPandya 2024 X X X X X X X X A A - - - - - -
Emily Harkin 2027 - - - - - - - - - P - P P X P Z
Doug Kollasch 2027 X X X X X X Z X X P - P P X P Z
Viana Qadoura 2025 X X X X X X X X X P - A A X P P
Idriss Abdullahi 2025 - - - - X Z X Z A P - P A A Z -
Mark Pries 2025 X A X X X X X X X P - A P X P P
Roger Lusala 2026 X X X A X X X X X P - P P A A A
Kelsey Paul Shantz 2026 X X X X Z X X A X P - P A X P P
Liz Mendez-Shannon 2026 X X X A Z X X A X A - P P X A A
Lubna Mohamed 2027 - - - - - - - - - - - Z A Z Z A
KEY: X= Present
A = Absent
Z = Present via Zoom