1. REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS APRIL 8, 2024 AT 6:30PM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. ROOMS 1401/1402 AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch- atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Gunjen Mittal, 512- 972-6104, gunjen.mittal@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Melissa Ortega, Chair Victor Martinez, Vice Chair Virginia Badillo Jose Caceres Adrian De La Rosa Rennison Lalgee Kevin Countie Aditi Joshi Adnan Suleiman CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 2/5/2024. Font Size: 12; Font: Times New Roman; Font Style: Regular 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing by Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager with the Equity Office regarding updates on her work with Austin immigrant communities. DISCUSSION ITEMS Welcome new Commissioners to Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Presentation from Office of Sustainability by Sergio Torres-Peralta will provide an overview of the Austin/Travis County Food Plan and how to get involved. Discussion on recruiting new members to this Commission to fill remaining seats. DISCUSSION AND ACTION Review and discuss the scope of the Quality-of-Life Study working group and update membership. Current members of QOL Study workgroup are: Commissioners Aditi Joshi, Rennison Lalgee, Melissa Ortega, Victor Martinez and Adrian De La Rosa. Review and discuss the scope of Budget working group and update membership. Current members of the Budget workgroup are: Commissioners Melissa Ortega and Adnan Suleiman. Discussion and approval of recommendation on budget reporting for Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Discussion and approval of recommendation on FY 24-25 Equity Office Funding Recommendation. Discussion and approval of recommendation on FY 24-25 Expansion of Emergency Housing and Rental Assistance Program Funding Recommendation. Discussion and approval of recommendation on FY 24-25 …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS RECOMMENDATION NUMBER (20240408-012) Recommendation on Early Childhood Investments WHEREAS, the immigrant population in Austin constitutes a significant and varied segment of their respective local communities, with many residing in families of mixed legal statuses; WHEREAS, in the City of Austin, they are 164,000 children who have at least one parent who is an immigrant, meaning one in three children in Austin falls into this category; WHEREAS, the overwhelming majority of these children with at least one immigrant parent are U.S. citizens, 87% were born in the United States; WHEREAS, in the City of Austin, 31% of children under age 6 live in households with low income; and WHEREAS, 90% of the children in households with low income under age 6 are children of color; and WHEREAS, decades of research prove that disadvantages begin the moment children come into the world because children born into poverty and children of color are disproportionately born early, at low-birth-weight, or with chronic illnesses, and are less likely than their peers to be ready for, or successful at school; and WHEREAS, current City investments in early childhood programs align with the goals and strategies of the Austin/Travis County Success By 6 Strategic Plan – a robust, data-driven community strategic plan designed to coordinate efforts, improve child and family outcomes as well as build more efficient and coordinated systems for equitable access; and WHEREAS, the federal, state, and local economic recovery funds invested in early childhood systems and programs are expiring in 2024, including essential worker wage stipends for the early childhood workforce; and WHEREAS, Childcare Scholarship programs through Workforce Solutions Capital Area are at capacity, enrollment is closed, no new funding is available at this time, and as of March 2024, the estimated amount of time a family applying for a scholarship at that time will likely remain on a waitlist before they could expect to be outreached for enrollment is 24 months; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s recently announced Infrastructure Academy is intended to expand the region’s skilled trade sector and access to childcare is an obstacle for the existing workforce, including the skilled trades; and WHEREAS, the Early Childhood Council has had input from Success By 6, The Children’s Funding Project Workgroup, and GAVA, all calling for significantly increased local government investment in the Childcare sector, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Immigrant …
COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS RECOMMENDATION NUMBER (20240408‐014) Recommenda(cid:415)on to fund a Quality of Life Study of the immigrant communi(cid:415)es in Aus(cid:415)n Whereas, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established through Ordinance No. 20171214-043 to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, and Whereas, a Quality of Life study of immigrant residents of Austin has never been done, and Whereas, out of the almost 1 million Austin residents, one out of five is foreign born, and Whereas, the Austin metro area has been the fastest growing area in the United States for the past 12 years in a row, and Whereas, the city of Austin is continuously planning on how to address the needs of residents regarding housing affordability, transit and transportation, access to schools and healthcare, and that these plans must consider demographic shifts in Austin, and Whereas, having data on the needs of the immigrant residents of Austin will allow this commission to make better recommendations to Council, and Whereas, this data will allow City of Austin staff to include the 20% of its residents who are foreign born in their comprehensive planning. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs requests that City Council fund a Quality of Life Study for Immigrant Residents of Austin in the amount of $250,000, comparably to other Quality of Life Studies funded in the past few years. Date of Approval: Record of the vote: Attest: ______________________________ Gunjen Mittal, Staff Liaison
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS RECOMMENDATION NUMBER (20240408-009) Equity Office Funding and equity, WHEREAS, the City of Austin is dedicated to fostering a community that embraces diversity, equality, promotes WHEREAS, by prioritizing initiatives, programs, and services that promote inclusivity, combat discrimination, and address systemic inequities, the city endeavors to create a more just and equitable society for all its residents; principles upholds the of WHEREAS, the latest City of Austin Planning Department show Austin residents are 48% white, 32% Hispanic/Latina/o/x, 8% Asian/Asian American, 7% Black/African American, and 4% Multiracial; and WHEREAS, a recent survey by the City of Austin Office of Police Oversight indicated 22% of respondents identified as part of the LGBTQIA+ community; and WHEREAS, the Age-Friendly Austin Community Feedback Survey indicates 76% of respondents identified as heterosexual or straight, with 12% of respondents identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ population including Lesbians, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, Two-Spirit, Non-Binary and Gender Nonconforming; and WHEREAS, the Age-Friendly Austin Community Feedback Survey indicates 23% of respondents were living with a disability; and WHEREAS, while not an all-inclusive list, all of the demographics specified above are at risk for discrimination and being targeted, generally the older adults in those populations are the most vulnerable; and WHEREAS, in the last twelve months, the City of Austin has seen an increase in discrimination, targeting and persecution of multiple ethnicities; and WHEREAS, the Equity Office mission is “To provide leadership, guidance, and insight on equity to improve the quality of life for Austinites and achieve the vision of making Austin the most livable city in the nation for ALL;” and WHEREAS, the City of Austin Equity Office is currently operating without a permanently appointed Equity Officer; and WHEREAS, there are initiatives within the City of Austin to consolidate the Equity Office with other group(s). NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs encourages the Austin City Council to act to maintain the Equity Office and further, to ensure adequate funding to hire and maintain a Chief Equity Officer, and to designate adequate resources to Austin residents who may be experiencing discrimination, marginalization, hate crimes, and/or persecution. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs encourages the Austin City Council to support the Equity Office’s ongoing work to address the needs of Austinites and continue to convey that equity in Austin remains a high priority by …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS RECOMMENDATION NUMBER (20240408-013) Recommendation on LGBTQIA+ Affirming Mental Healthcare WHEREAS, unlike many immigrants, LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers and refugees might not receive support from their diasporic or ethnic communities due to prevailing homophobia or transphobia that mirrors the persecutory conditions they faced in their country of origin; WHEREAS, Research suggests that the asylum application process can have detrimental effects on LGBTQIA+ individuals. A recent study highlighted that asylum seekers within this community endure adverse mental and physical health outcomes, alongside economic instability, while navigating a state of uncertainty during the waiting period; WHEREAS, the testimonies of LGBTQIA+ asylum seekers interviewed unveiled severe abuses in their countries of origin, including rape, assault, death threats, extortion, and the forced disappearance or murder of romantic partners and friends. These traumatic experiences exacerbate their mental health struggles; WHEREAS, numerous LGBTQIA+ refugees and asylum seekers are compelled to spend time in detention centers in both transit and host countries. Research indicates that conditions in these detention centers can be especially challenging for LGBTQIA+ immigrants, as they are frequently placed in jails or jail-like facilities, resulting in negative mental health consequences; WHEREAS, research suggests that LGBTQIA+ refugees and asylum seekers may continue to experience negative mental health outcomes given the multiple and compounded traumas they experience in their countries of origin and throughout the asylum and resettlement processes; WHEREAS, diagnoses commonly associated with this "lifetime of cumulative trauma" include depression, PTSD, dissociative disorders, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, traumatic brain injury, substance abuse; WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s 2021 LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Study identified that the Austin- Round Rock-Georgetown metropolitan area had the 3rd largest percentage of LGBTQIA+ people in the UnitedStates, with about 5.0% or 90,000 people identifying as LGBTQIA+; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin currently has an estimated 475-person waitlist for LGBTQIA+-focused mental health services; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s 2021 LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Study found that respondents are at high risk for serious mental health issues, including 42% for depression and 12% for suicidal ideation; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s 2021 LGBTQIA+ Quality of Life Study respondents reported having to put off getting health-related services in the past 12 months because of the cost of dental care (29%), mental health care (21%), medical care (18%), and gender-affirming care (9%) among the top services avoided due to cost; and WHEREAS, the City …
COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS RECOMMENDATION NUMBER (20240408-011) Funding for Collective Sex Crimes Response Model Actions WHEREAS, The Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established through Ordinance No. 20171214-043 to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, WHEREAS, Immigrant survivors of abuse encounter significant obstacles when attempting to escape violence, particularly due to language barriers, social isolation, uncertain immigration status, and limited access to resources, WHEREAS, SAFE provides free and confidential services to all survivors of abuse, regardless of their immigration status, WHEREAS, in September 2019, the City Manager’s Office contracted the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), in conjunction with the Women’s Law Project and the Wellesley Centers for Women, to undertake a comprehensive assessment of the way sexual assaults reported to the Austin Police Department (APD) are investigated and processed; and WHEREAS, sexual assault lawsuits were filed and settlements were approved for Smith et. al. vs City of Austin and Senko et. al. vs City of Austin; and WHEREAS, on November 14, 2022, the final PERF report was released, Austin Police Department (APD) Review, Reported Sexual Assault Comprehensive Evaluation, and included comprehensive findings and over one hundred recommendations; and WHEREAS, the Austin Police Department worked with the Austin/Travis County Sexual Assault Response and Resource Team (SARRT) to address the PERF recommendations and take actions, including revisions to APD policies and procedures; and WHEREAS, the Collective Sex Crimes Response Model (CSCRM) was established in early 2023 to coordinate the full response to the PERF report, and includes representatives from APD, SARRT, nonprofit and community organizations, survivors and survivor advocates; and WHEREAS, the Commission for Women and Public Safety Commission formed a joint working group in 2023 to support and track the work of the CSCRM and report progress to their respective commissions; and WHEREAS, the work of the CSCRM is significant in scope, spanning multiple working groups, and has identified serious unmet funding requirements and additional needs for fiscal year 2024- 2025; and WHEREAS, funding has been allocated to support APD comprehensive sexual assault/trauma curriculum development and delivery, additional detective hours on misdemeanor and cold cases, the hiring of a CSCRM project manager, the implementation of a survivor survey and a stipend for volunteer project members, among others; and WHEREAS, law enforcement staffing shortages and hiring challenges are impacting support for survivors of sexual assault, and training and increased financial support and innovative approaches are needed to overcome …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS RECOMMENDATION NUMBER (20240408-008) Budget Reporting WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s Boards and Commissions are tasked with making annual budget recommendations to City Council; and WHEREAS, there is currently not a central, easily accessible, publicly available repository for board and commission budget recommendations; and WHEREAS, there is currently not a central, easily accessible, publicly available way to track the status of board and commission recommendations within a fiscal year, or year over year; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s Boards and Commissions serve as a liaison between city government and community members, using community guidance to inform council budget recommendations, and council budget decisions to educate community members on council priorities; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin’s Boards and Commissions experience term limits, transitions in leadership as well as membership, and changing priorities, all of which lead to a loss in institutional knowledge; and WHEREAS, Austin is the state capital, home of the state’s legislature, many of the legislature’s staff, and local as well as state policy advocates; and WHEREAS, it is reasonable that our city has the talent, skills, and resources necessary to develop a board and commission recommendation budget tracker. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant affairs recommends funding and staffing to create a digital, user friendly, publicly available board and commission budget recommendation tracker. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, this digital tracker can be as simple as a regularly updated excel spreadsheet on the board and commission’s website, or as robust as the Texas Legislature Online Bill Lookup website dependent on available funding and staff capacity. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, this digital tracker will be a resource for budget recommendations for each fiscal year, starting with the FY2024 budget cycle. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, this digital tracker will provide a brief summary of each recommendation with a link to the full recommendation, status update of where in the budget processes it is (submitted, under review by council, etc.), and a final outcome (accepted, rejected, modified, etc.), including any revised versions of the original recommendation. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, this digital tracker will be a tool to increase transparency and engagement in the budget process amongst boards and commissions, city council, and the communities across Austin, furthering a shared goal of government that works for all. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Motioned by: Commissioner Seconded By: Commissioner For: Against: Abstain: Absent: Attest: …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS RECOMMENDATION NUMBER (20240408-010) Expansion of Emergency Housing and Rental Assistance Program WHEREAS, The Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established through Ordinance No. 20171214-043 to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, WHEREAS, Austin continues to face a housing affordability crisis, particularly the persistent rise in rental prices exacerbates the housing affordability crisis, contributing to housing instability, displacement, and homelessness among vulnerable populations, WHEREAS, city residents who are experiencing unstable housing often cite gentrification as a significant factor contributing to their housing instability and, WHEREAS, displacement often disproportionately affects marginalized communities, including people of color and immigrants, who may have limited resources and face systemic barriers to accessing affordable housing; WHEREAS, The City of Austin has allocated funding for the RENT program, now known as "I Belong in Austin," which has proven successful in providing emergency assistance for rent, moving, and storage/relocation to prevent eviction, displacement, and homelessness; and WHEREAS, The "I Belong in Austin" program has demonstrated its value in providing essential support to vulnerable individuals; WHEREAS, the Austin City Council can expand its reach and impact, ensuring that more residents receive the assistance they urgently need to remain housed. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Immigrant Affairs urges the Austin City Council to allocate $15 million to support the "I Belong in Austin" program in the upcoming fiscal year. This allocation is proposed based on a thorough evaluation of the program's effectiveness in mitigating the housing affordability crisis and achieving strategic objectives related to housing stabilization, economic opportunity, and affordability. . Date of Approval: _____________________________ Motioned by: Commissioner Seconded By: Commissioner Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign) For: Against: Abstain: Absent: .
1. SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS MARCH 23, 2024 AT 9AM PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER 6301 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. ROOMS 1401/1402 AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch- atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Gunjen Mittal, 512- 972-6104, gunjen.mittal@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Melissa Ortega, Chair Victor Martinez, Vice Chair Virginia Badillo Jose Caceres Adrian De La Rosa Rennison Lalgee Aditi Joshi Adnan Suleiman CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 2/5/2024. Font Size: 12; Font: Times New Roman; Font Style: Regular 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing by Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager with the Equity Office regarding updates on her work with Austin immigrant communities. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation from the Housing Department regarding the FY 24-29 Consolidated Plan Community Needs Assessment. Discussion on recruiting new members to this Commission to fill remaining seats. DISCUSSION AND ACTION Review and discuss the scope of the Quality-of-Life Study working group and update membership. Current members of QOL Study workgroup are: Commissioners Aditi Joshi, Rennison Lalgee, Melissa Ortega, Victor Martinez and Adrian De La Rosa. Review and discuss the scope of Budget working group and update membership. Current members of the Budget workgroup are: Commissioners Melissa Ortega and Adnan Suleiman. Discussion and approval of recommendation on budget reporting for Commission on Immigrant Affairs. Discussion and approval of recommendation on FY 24-25 Equity Office Funding Recommendation. Discussion and approval of recommendation on FY 24-25 Expansion of Emergency Housing and Rental Assistance Program Funding Recommendation. Discussion and approval of recommendation on FY 24-25 Collective Sex Crimes Response Model Actions Funding Recommendation. Discussion and approval of recommendation on FY 24-25 Early Childhood Investments Funding Recommendation. …
1. REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS MARCH 4, 2024 AT 6:30PM AUSTIN CITY HALL 301 WEST 2ND STREET ROOM 1101 AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch- atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Gunjen Mittal, 512- 972-6104, gunjen.mittal@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Melissa Ortega, Chair Victor Martinez, Vice Chair Virginia Badillo Jose Caceres Adrian De La Rosa Rennison Lalgee Fang Fang Aditi Joshi Adnan Suleiman CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 2/5/2024. Font Size: 12; Font: Times New Roman; Font Style: Regular 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing by Rocio Villalobos, Program Manager with the Equity Office regarding updates on her work with Austin immigrant communities. DISCUSSION ITEMS Presentation by Christian Duran from the Housing Department regarding the FY 24-29 Consolidated Plan Community Needs Assessment. Discussion on recruiting new members to this Commission to fill remaining seats. DISCUSSION AND ACTION Review, discuss and approve calling a special-called meeting to work on budget recommendations. Discuss and approve the March 23rd retreat based on current number of Commissioners. Review and discuss the scope of all current working groups and possible action to update membership. Current members of the budget workgroup are: Commissioners Melissa Ortega and Adnan Suleiman. Current members of QOL Study workgroup are: Commissioners Aditi Joshi, Rennison Lalgee, Melissa Ortega, Victor Martinez and Adrian De La Rosa. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from BUDGET WORKING GROUP regarding budget recommendations for FY25. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative …
1. 2. REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS FEBRURARY 5, 2024 AT 6:30PM AUSTIN CITY HALL 301 WEST 2ND STREET ROOM 1101 AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch- atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Gunjen Mittal, 512- 972-6104, gunjen.mittal@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Melissa Ortega, Chair Victor Martinez, Vice Chair Virginia Badillo Jose Caceres Adrian De La Rosa Rennison Lalgee Fang Fang Anjum Malik Aditi Joshi Adnan Suleiman CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA The first 10 speakers signed up to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 8/7/2023. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 11/6/2023. Font Size: 12; Font: Times New Roman; Font Style: Regular 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. STAFF BRIEFINGS Overview of Certified Welcoming, the application process, and our current status with respect to that work: Presentation by Rocio Villalobos. 3. DISCUSSION ITEMS Introduction and welcome of new Commissioners. Presentation by American Gateways regarding updates on their work in the community. Presentation by Commissioner Muneeb Aslam from Human Rights Commission regarding their recommendation to City Council on a Cease Fire Resolution. Review and discuss the scope and membership updates of the Budget and the Quality of Life Study working groups. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION Discussion and possible action on approval of recommendation on Combating Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab Sentiments in the City of Austin and promoting a peaceful resolution for all. Discussion and possible action on planning the Commission’s retreat and confirm dates in the upcoming months. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES Update from BUDGET WORKING GROUP regarding budget recommendations for FY25 (Commissioners Melissa Ortega and Adnan Suleiman). Update recommendations (Commissioner Victor Martinez). from QUALITY OF LIFE STUDY WORKING GROUP regarding FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to …
COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS RECOMMENDATION 20240205-007 Resolution on Combating Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab Sentiments in the City of Austin and promoting a peaceful resolution for all. Date: Subject: February 5, 2024 Recommendation on Combating Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab Sentiments in the City of Austin and promoting a peaceful resolution for all. Seconded By: Commissioner Motioned by: Commissioner ---- RECOMMENDATION: In response to the ongoing Gaza Crisis and subsequent rise in hate-related incidents, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs recommends that City Council directs City staff to execute a coordinated public awareness campaign combating antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab sentiment; for the Austin Police Department to develop a comprehensive coordinated response to victims of violence stemming from rhetoric of the Gaza Crisis; and calls on City Council to express support for an immediate and permanent ceasefire. DESCRIPTION OF RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL: WHEREAS, the City of Austin is dedicated to fostering a community that embraces diversity, racial equity, and upholds the principles of equality and human rights; WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was created Ordinance No. 20171214-043 to advise the city council on issues of common concern to immigrants, particularly in the areas of health and human services, education, and the demographic makeup of the Austin immigrant community; WHEREAS, the attack on October 7th by Hamas has led to the tragic loss of Israeli civilians and the subsequent indiscriminate retaliation by the State of Israel has led to the continued loss of civilian lives in Gaza; WHEREAS, rhetoric as a result of the global conflict has led to incidents of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments rising within our city, posing a significant threat to the well-being and safety of our diverse communities; 1 of 3
REGULAR MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS NOVEMBER 6th, 2023 AT 6:30PM AUSTIN CITY HALL 301 W.2nd ST. ROOM 1101 AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch- atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, email Gunjen Mittal, gunjen.mittal@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Melissa Ortega, Vice Chair Jose Caceres Adrian De La Rosa Fang Fang Aditi Joshi Rennison Lalgee AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Adnan Suleiman Anjum Malik Victor Martinez The first 10 speakers signed up to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 8/7/2023. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. 3. Discussion on Commissioner vacancies and welcome new Commissioners. Discussion on Joint Inclusion Budget Workshop, Townhalls and announcements on FY25 budget recommendation cycle. Font Size: 12; Font: Times New Roman; Font Style: Regular DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Discussion and possible action on electing Chair and Vice Chair for Commission. Discussion and possible action on approval of 2024 calendar. Discussion and possible action on scheduling a retreat in January for the commission and solicitation of possible agenda items that can help envision, plan, and organize priorities for the Commission. Discussion and possible action on electing Primary Representative and Alternative Representative for JIC. Review, discuss, and possible action to update membership of all current working groups. Discussion and possible action on passing a recommendation to City Council to condemn the inhumane activities of Operation Lone Star. Discussion and possible action on a recommendation to City Council for an updated report on the budget. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 …
1. 2. 3. SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS August 7, 2023 AT 6:30PM AUSTIN CITY HALL 301 W.2nd ST. ROOM 1101 AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS may be participating by videoconference. The meeting may be viewed online at: http://www.austintexas.gov/page/watch- atxn-live Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Gunjen Mittal, 512-972-6104, gunjen.mittal@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Miriam Dorantes, Chair Adrian De La Rosa Fang Fang Melissa Ortega, Vice Chair Aditi Joshi Rennison Lalgee AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Anjum Malik Adnan Suleiman The first 10 speakers signed up to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three- minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 6/5/2023. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 10/3/2022. Approve the minutes of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS REGULAR MEETING on 12/5/2022. Font Size: 12; Font: Times New Roman; Font Style: Regular STAFF BRIEFINGS DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. 6. 7. 8. 9. Staff briefing by Rocio Villalobos regarding her job title and role with Austin immigrant communities. 5. Discussion on hosting a retreat for the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action on to pass a budget recommendation to City Council in support of Aztec Kids Code. Discussion and possible action on forming a budget workgroup. Discussion and possible action on conducting a Quality-of-Life Study on immigrant and Discussion and possible action to approve the endorsement of Community Investment refugee communities in Austin. budget. ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS, please contact Gunjen …
COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS (CoIA) Recommendation Number 20230328-013 RESOLUTION FROM THE COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS IN SUPPORT OF ACADEMIA CUAHTLI PROGRAMMING AND EXPANSION Date: June 22, 2023 Subject: RESOLUTION FROM THE COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS IN SUPPORT OF ACADEMIA CUAHTLI PROGRAMMING AND EXPANSION Motioned by: Commissioner Fang Fang Seconded By: Commissioner Aditi Joshi ______________________________________________________________________________ RECOMMENDATION: The Commission on Immigrant Affairs (CoIA) recommends that City Council members support and approve the Hispanic Quality of Life Resources Advisory Commissions FY 2023-2024 Budget Recommendation (20230328-013) for supporting largely immigrant, Spanish-speaking children and youth in Austin by increasing funding for culturally and linguistically diverse programs through an allocation of $550,000.00 for Academia Cuauhtli. DESCRIPTION OF RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL: WHEREAS, since its founding in 2013, Academia Cuauhtli (founded by Nuestro Grupo, a community-based volunteer organization) was established at the ESB-MACC as a free Saturday culture and language revitalization academy for elementary school children and their parents, with a curriculum focused on Indigeneity, social justice, Tejano history, traditional arts, and danza Mexica and since July 2014, Academia Cuauhtli has served as an official educational enterprise partnered with the Austin Independent School District (AISD) and Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Culture Center (ESB-MACC); WHEREAS, Academia Cuauhtli, administered through a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Austin, Austin Independent School District (AISD), and Nuestro Grupo embraces and fulfills the Commission on Immigrant Affairs mission of collaborative engagement by advocating for educational equity and well-being for immigrant, first-generation, and low socioeconomic background AISD students in collaboration with the University of Texas at Austin; WHEREAS, Academia Cuauhtli fulfills its mission expressed as “to honor our communities' cultural heritage, foster social justice, and reclaim our collective identities in pursuit of educational freedom” by serving as a means for the comprehensive advancement of the students and their parents—via its strong partnership with students’ parents—by providing a supportive and uplifting learning environment, as well as for providing for the social, and economic needs, including the extensive COVID-related assistance extended to its participant Latino families during the pandemic in Austin, Texas; WHEREAS, Academia Cuauhtli fulfills its mission by enrolling from 2014-2023 over 800 AISD emergent bilingual students, trained over 250 Indigenous/Latinx public school teachers, hosted over 25 professional development workshops, initiated Cuauhtli’s Grow Your Own bilingual leadership development program for AISD teachers of color, and successfully implemented a research-university-community partnership between AISD, UT Austin’s College of Education Department of Educational Leadership and Policy …
1. 2. 3. Regular meeting of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs December 5th, 2022, 6:30pm Austin City Hall, Room 1101 301 W 2nd St AUSTIN, TEXAS the Commission on Immigrant Affairs may be participating by Some members of videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Sarah Williams, 512-972-5123, sarah.williams@austintexas.gov. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Juan Vences-Benitez, Chair Krystal Gomez, Vice-Chair Sarah Becker Karen Crawford Adrian De La Rosa Aditi Joshi Rennison Lalgee Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Nicole Merritt Joseph Ramirez-Hernandez Armin Salek The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Regular Meeting on October 3rd, 2022. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion of Travis County appointee vacancy and need to fill position. Enhanced Library Card Updates DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion on Quality of Life Study updates for Immigrant Affairs Commission Discussion and possible action on Quality of Life Study Retreat Discussion on Quality of Life Town halls in December 2022 and January 2023 Discussion on 2023 Budgeting process and possible action on workgroup through March 4. 5. 6. 7. 2023. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Sarah Williams at Austin Public Health Department, at 512-972-5123, for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Commission on Immigrant Affairs, please contact Sarah Williams at 512-972-5123.
1. 2. Regular Meeting of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs October 3rd, 2022 6:30PM Austin City Hall, Room 1101 301 W 2ND Street Austin, Texas Some members of the COMMISSION ON IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely via telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation by telephone. To register to speak remotely, call or email Sarah Williams, 512-972-5123, Sarah.Williams@austintexas.gov CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Juan Vences-Benitez, Chair Krystal Gomez, Vice-Chair Sara Becker Karen Crawford Adrian De La Rosa Aditi Joshi Rennison Lalgee Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Nicole Merritt Joseph Ramirez-Hernandez Armin Salek The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Commission on Immigrant Affairs Regular Meeting on September 6th, 2022. DISCUSSION ITEMS Discussion on APD U-Visa Review Panel. Font Size: 12; Font: Times New Roman; Font Style: Regular DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Discussion and possible action on creation of Budget Working Group. Discussion and possible action on Quality of Life Study and creation of working group. Discussion and possible action on 2023 Meeting Schedule. Discussion of Joint Inclusion Committee and possible action on COIA representative . 3. 4. 5. 6. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Sarah Williams at Austin Public Health Department, at 512-972-5123 for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Commission on Immigrant Affairs, please contact Sarah Williams at 512-972-5123. Font Size: 12; Font: Times New Roman; Font Style: Regular
