REGULAR MEETING OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Monday, July 28, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. Austin City Hall, Room 1101 301 West 2nd Street Austin, Texas Some members of the Human Rights Commission 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 Christi Vitela at christi.vitela@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2792. CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Kolby Duhon, Chair (He/They) Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam (He/Him) Jeffrey Clemmons Harriett Kirsh Pozen Maryam Khawar Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Danielle Bryant Morgan Davis (He/Him) Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Tannya Oliva Martínez AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten 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 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on June 23, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Introduction of the City Manager to the commission. 3. Staff briefing regarding an introduction and an overview of Austin Equity and Inclusion by the Commission’s new Executive Liaison Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Austin Equity and Inclusion, Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Enrique Serrano, Civil Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Presentation regarding the Austin Community College Board of Trustee’s recent vote in protection of immigrant communities. Presentation by Julie Ann Nitsch, Austin Community College Trustee. 5. Update regarding actions by the Texas State Legislature in 2025 relating to human rights. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 7. Update from the intergroup relations working group about its most recent working group meeting and progress on the working group goals. 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 contact Christi Vitela, Office of the City Clerk at …
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISISON MEETING MINUTES Monday, June 23, 2025 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, June 23, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 4815 Mueller Blvd, Mueller Assembly Room in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:07 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Gabrielle Zeidan (Vice Chair) Tannya Oliva Martinez Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Danielle Bryant Morgan Davis Harriet Kirsh Pozen Maryam Khawar Mariana Krueger PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on May 19, 2025. The minutes of the May 19, 2025 meeting were approved without objection on Chair Duhon’s motion on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Bryant and Krueger were off the dais. Commissioner Clemmons was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding actions that the commission can take besides recommendations, including potential presenters and community engagement at future commission meetings. Discussed. 1 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISISON MEETING MINUTES Monday, June 23, 2025 3. Discussion regarding topics for potential future briefings by Austin Police Department, including responses to recent protests. Discussed. 4. Update regarding actions by the Texas State Legislature in 2025 relating to human rights. This item was postponed until the July commission meeting on Chair Duhon’s motion, Commissioner Bryant’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Clemmons was absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve the formation of a working group to follow-up and track progress on the commission’s FY2025-26 budget recommendations. The motion to form a working group to follow-up and track progress on the commission’s FY2025-26 budget recommendations was approved on Commissioner Bryant’s motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Clemmons was absent. Members: Commissioners Zeidan (Chair), Aslam, Clemmons, Oliva Martinez 6. Approve a recommendation to allocate an additional $1.5 million in City of Austin grant funding for nonprofit organizations addressing youth development, basic needs, and educational equity to combat federal funding reductions. The recommendation was approved on Commissioner Davis’s motion, Commissioner Kirsh Pozen’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Clemmons was absent. Commissioners Aslam and Krueger recused themselves due to their conflicts in associated organizations. 7. Approve a recommendation for enhancements to the City of Austin’s rapid-response and disaster-preparedness systems for unhoused residents during extreme weather. The recommendation was approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Oliva Martinez’s second on a …
Annual Internal Review This report covers the time period of 7/1/2024 to 7/1/2025 ____________________________________ City of Austin Human Rights Commission The Board/Commission mission statement (per the City Code) is: (A)The Human Rights Commission should be composed of members who as nearly as possible are representative of the several social, economic, religious, cultural, ethnic, and racial groups which comprise the population of the City. (B)The commission shall: (1)advise and consult with the city council on all matters involving racial, religious, or ethnic discrimination, and devise practices to promote equal opportunity; (2)serve in an advisory and consultive capacity to all city departments, advisory boards, and regulatory agencies to assure effective compliance with non-discrimination policies and orders, and recommend to the city manager measures to improve the ability of various departments and agencies to ensure equal protection of any and all persons and groups against discrimination; (3)recommend to the city council legislation to aid in programs designed to eliminate prejudice and discrimination and encourage community support for the legislation; (4)aid in the formulation of local community groups in neighborhoods as needed to carry out specific programs; (5)initiate and facilitate discussions and negotiations between individuals and groups to lessen tensions and improve understanding in the community; (6)institute and conduct educational programs to promote equal treatment, opportunity and understanding, and sponsor meetings, institutes, forums, and courses of instruction to lead to a clearer understanding and solution of human relations problems; (7)assist in training city employees to use methods of dealing with intergroup relations that result in respect for equal rights and equal treatment, and cooperate with law enforcement agencies whose primary jurisdiction is within the City to develop and include human rights courses in the curriculum of police training; (8)conduct research, obtain factual data, and hold public hearings to ascertain the status and treatment of racial, religious, and ethnic groups in the city and the best means of progressively improving human relations; (9)provide services and information to the city manager and heads of all city departments and agencies to achieve the purposes of this chapter; and (10)cooperate with all city, state, county, federal, and other governmental agencies, as well as racial, religious, ethnic, nationality, educational, community, civic, fraternal, benevolent and other groups, associations, societies, and individuals with constructive talents and resources helpful in achieving mutual appreciation of the privileges and the responsibilities of citizenship in a land of freedom enriched by free commerce and full …
Introduction & Overview: Austin Equity and Inclusion Human Rights Commission Briefing Monday, July 28, 2025, 6:00 PM Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director Enrique Serrano, Civil Rights Officer Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer Agenda Introductions • Who We Are Office Overview • Vision & Mission • Current Structure • Core Services Current Projects Connecting with Our Office 7/28/2025 2 OUR VISION Austin Equity and Inclusion helps shape a community and city government where every individual feels welcomed and has the resources and services they need to thrive. We’re dedicated to transforming systems to increase access, remove barriers to opportunity, address discrimination, and foster a community where all identities are respected. 7/28/2025 3 Austin Equity and Inclusion (AEI) AEI Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director Civil Rights Division Equity Division Human Rights Division Enrique Serrano, Civil Rights Officer Vacant, Equity Officer Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer 7/28/2025 4 Introductions Shafina Khaki Human Rights Officer Dr. Lindsey Wilson Director Enrique Serrano Civil Rights Officer 5 CORE SERVICES Promote Human Rights: Provide advocacy and direct services that help residents access benefits, understand their rights, and connect to resources that uphold safety, dignity, and well-being. Carry Out the City’s Strategic Goals: Increase access, remove barriers to opportunities, and create inclusive spaces where all identities feel respected, seen, and valued. Provide Anti-Discrimination Protections: Investigate discrimination complaints related to Housing, Employment, Public Accommodations, and Fair Chance Hiring. City Ordinance Enforcement: Uphold the CROWN Act, Tenant’s Rights to Organize and other Key City Ordinances. Equity: Work to reduce racial and socioeconomic disparities by collaborating with all City departments to help identify and remove barriers in services. Community Engagement and Outreach: Build collaborative community relationships to advance Equity and improve the quality of life for Austinites. 7/28/2025 The items listed above represent key examples, though the list is not exhaustive. 6 Current Projects EQUITY CIVIL RIGHTS HUMAN RIGHTS • Quality of Life Studies • Mini-Grants • Equity Action Team & Equity Network Meetings • Normalize, Organize and Operationalize... 7/28/20 25 • Enforcing Civil Rights Laws Across • Know Your Rights/Benefits Multiple Sectors, leveraging technology to advance rights. • Collaborates with Community Members, Businesses, and Stakeholders: • Partnering with other agencies to promote civil rights initiatives (Immigrants, Veterans, ADA) • Advances the fundamental rights and freedoms of all Austinites • Anti-Hate/We All Belong • Community Meetings/Foster Belonging The items listed above represent key examples, though the list …
REGULAR MEETING of the HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Monday, June 23, 6:00 p.m. Austin Energy Headquarters, Mueller Assembly Room 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Human Rights Commission 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 Ryan Sperling at ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov or 512-974-3568 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Kolby Duhon, Chair (He/They) Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam (He/Him) Jeffrey Clemmons Harriett Kirsh Pozen Maryam Khawar Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Danielle Bryant Morgan Davis (He/Him) Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Tannya Oliva Martínez AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten 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 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on May 19, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding actions that the commission can take besides recommendations, including potential presenters and community engagement at future commission meetings. 3. 4. Discussion regarding topics for potential future briefings by Austin Police Department, including responses to recent protests. Update regarding actions by the Texas State Legislature in 2025 relating to human rights. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. 6. 7. Approve the formation of a working group to follow-up and track progress on the commission’s FY2025-26 budget recommendations. Approve a recommendation to allocate an additional $1.5 million in City of Austin grant funding for nonprofit organizations addressing youth development, basic needs, and educational equity to combat federal funding reductions. Approve a recommendation for enhancements to the City of Austin’s rapid-response and disaster-preparedness systems for unhoused residents during extreme weather. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 8. Update from the intergroup relations working group about its most recent working group meeting and progress on the working group goals. 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 …
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISISON MEETING MINUTES Monday, May 19, 2025 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, May 19, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, May 19, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Gabriella Zeidan (Vice Chair) Harriett Kirsh Pozen Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Danielle Bryant Jeffrey Clemmons Morgan Davis PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on April 28, 2025. The minutes were amended to strike “$125,000” in Item 6 and insert “$120,000” on Chair Duhon’s motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Clemmons was off the dais. Commissioners Khawar, Krueger, and Oliva Martínez were absent. The minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on April 28, 2025 were approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Kirsh Pozen’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Clemmons was off the dais. Commissioners Khawar, Krueger, and Oliva Martínez were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and possible action to approve proposed language for a historical marker on 4th street. 1 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISISON MEETING MINUTES Monday, May 19, 2025 The proposed language was presented by Kim McKnight, Division Manager, Development Services Department. The motion to approve proposed language for a historical marker on 4th street was approved on Commissioner Davis’ motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Khawar, Krueger, and Oliva Martínez were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Chair Duhon – Discussion and possible action to approve the Annual Internal Review at the July meeting. Second by Commissioner Clemmons. Commissioner Aslam – Recommendation regarding severe climate emergencies and cooling shelters at the June meeting. Second by Chair Duhon Commissioner Aslam – Recommendation regarding grant funding for nonprofits working on basic needs such as the Texas Central Food Bank. Second by Chair Duhon. ADJOURNMENT Chair Duhon adjourned the meeting at 6:14 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the DATE meeting on BOARD MEMBER’s motion, BOARD MEMBER second on a (vote count) vote 2 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISISON MEETING MINUTES Monday, May 19, 2025 3
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommenda)on Number: (20250623-01): Alloca)on of an addi)onal $1.5 Million in City of Aus)n Grant Funding for Nonprofit Organiza)ons Addressing Youth Development, Basic Needs, and Educa)onal Equity to Combat Federal Funding Cuts WHEREAS, the Human Rights Commission of the City of Aus;n is charged with advising the City Council on issues affec;ng the human rights of Aus;n residents and advancing policies that promote equity, dignity, and quality of life for all; and WHEREAS, local nonprofit organiza;ons are essen;al partners in advancing community well-being by addressing social determinants of health and equity, par;cularly in the areas of youth development, food and housing insecurity, and access to educa;onal opportunity; and WHEREAS, recent federal budget cuts—most notably the abrupt cancella;on of approximately $400 million in AmeriCorps grants as of April 2025—have destabilized thousands of nonprofit programs across the country, including many in Central Texas; and WHEREAS, this loss of federal support has resulted in the suspension or elimina;on of more than 32,000 AmeriCorps service posi;ons, including roles cri;cal to youth mentorship, food distribu;on, housing support, and community educa;on in Aus;n; and WHEREAS, addi;onal federal reduc;ons have included over $1 billion in cuts to USDA programs that support food banks and nutri;on assistance, proposed cuts of up to 40% to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and a $300 million reduc;on to the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program—all of which place addi;onal strain on local safety nets; and WHEREAS, these federal cuts come at a ;me when infla;on and the rising cost of living in Aus;n are deepening economic dispari;es and driving increased demand for nonprofit services addressing basic needs, mental health, and educa;onal support; and WHEREAS, many local nonprofits are now facing urgent capacity constraints and funding shor\alls due to these reduc;ons, and may be forced to scale back or shut down essen;al programs without ;mely local interven;on; and WHEREAS, the City of Aus;n has both the opportunity and the responsibility to safeguard con;nuity of services for its most vulnerable residents, par;cularly when federal retrenchment dispropor;onately harms youth, low-income families, and historically marginalized communi;es; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: That the Human Rights Commission strongly urges the Aus;n City Council to allocate $1.5 million in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget to support local nonprofit organiza;ons delivering cri;cal services in the areas of youth development, basic …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommenda)on Number: (20250623-01): Recommending Enhancements to the City of Aus)n's Rapid-response and Disaster-preparedness Systems for Unhoused and Low-Income Residents During Extreme Weather WHEREAS, the City of Aus<n currently operates cooling centers in libraries and recrea<on facili<es and issues text alerts to unsheltered residents with mobile devices; however, these centers are typically open only during regular business hours and require individuals to reach the sites independently; and WHEREAS, recent improvements to cold-weather sheltering, including raising the ac<va<on threshold to 35°F, providing advance no<ce, offering aNer-hours transporta<on, and u<lizing hotel vouchers for families, have made winter protec<ons more predictable, demonstra<ng the effec<veness of clear triggers and mul<-agency coordina<on; and WHEREAS, the City of Aus<n has joined the C40 Heat, Health, and Equity Challenge Fund and secured a $70,000 grant to pilot innova<ve cooling solu<ons for people experiencing homelessness, but this ini<a<ve is a temporary pilot rather than a permanent citywide program; and WHEREAS, peer-reviewed studies show that people experiencing homelessness face heat-aUributable death rates up to 100 <mes higher than the general popula<on, and na<onal advocacy organiza<ons es<mate that unsheltered individuals are approximately 200 <mes more likely to die from heat-related causes than those who are sheltered; and WHEREAS, Aus<n’s average summer temperatures have steadily increased over the past decade, with projec<ons from the Na<onal Weather Service indica<ng that the city may experience more than fiNy 100-degree days per year by 2030, crea<ng an unprecedented public health risk for unsheltered residents; and WHEREAS, a comprehensive rapid-response framework must address not only extreme heat but also severe storms, flooding, wildfire smoke, and sudden power outages, all of which dispropor<onately threaten the lives and health of unhoused Aus<nites; and WHEREAS, extreme-weather events, including prolonged power outages, flooding, hail, and high-wind storms, also undermine the health, food security, and economic stability of low-income housed Aus<nites, compounding the risks faced by unsheltered residents; and WHEREAS, households living paycheck-to-paycheck oNen must discard hundreds of dollars’ worth of perishable food aNer mul<-day outages and may face urgent home or vehicle repairs that, if unaddressed, threaten employment and housing stability; and WHEREAS, peer Texas ci<es have shown that rapid, needs-based grants of $500–$1,000 can avert cascading crises by helping residents replace lost food, secure safe shelter, and restore transporta<on within days of a disaster; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: The Human Rights Commission …
06 Date of Approval: June 23, 2025 Motion by Commissioner Davis, second by Commissioner Kirsh Pozen Record of the vote: Approved on a 7-0 vote For: Chair Duhon, Vice Chair Zeidan, Commissioners Bryant, Davis, Kirsh Pozen, Khawar, Oliva Martinez Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioner Clemmons Recuse: Commissioners Aslam, Krueger Attest: ________________________ (Human Rights Commission Staff Liaison)
07 Date of Approval: June 23, 2025 Motion by Vice Chair Zeidan, second by Commissioner Oliva Martinez Record of the vote: Approved on a 9-0 vote For: Chair Duhon, Vice Chair Zeidan, Commissioners Aslam, Bryant, Davis, Kirsh Pozen, Khawar, Krueger, Oliva Martinez Against: None Abstain: None Absent: Commissioner Clemmons Attest: ________________________ (Human Rights Commission Staff Liaison)
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, June 23, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 4815 Mueller Blvd, Mueller Assembly Room in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:07 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Gabrielle Zeidan (Vice Chair) Tannya Oliva Martinez Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Danielle Bryant Morgan Davis Harriet Kirsh Pozen Maryam Khawar Mariana Krueger PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on May 19, 2025. The minutes of the May 19, 2025 meeting were approved without objection on Chair Duhon’s motion on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Bryant and Krueger were off the dais. Commissioner Clemmons was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding actions that the commission can take besides recommendations, including potential presenters and community engagement at future commission meetings. Discussed. 1 3. Discussion regarding topics for potential future briefings by Austin Police Department, including responses to recent protests. Discussed. 4. Update regarding actions by the Texas State Legislature in 2025 relating to human rights. This item was postponed until the July commission meeting on Chair Duhon’s motion, Commissioner Bryant’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Clemmons was absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 5. Approve the formation of a working group to follow-up and track progress on the commission’s FY2025-26 budget recommendations. The motion to form a working group to follow-up and track progress on the commission’s FY2025-26 budget recommendations was approved on Commissioner Bryant’s motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Clemmons was absent. Members: Commissioners Zeidan (Chair), Aslam, Clemmons, Oliva Martinez 6. Approve a recommendation to allocate an additional $1.5 million in City of Austin grant funding for nonprofit organizations addressing youth development, basic needs, and educational equity to combat federal funding reductions. The recommendation was approved on Commissioner Davis’s motion, Commissioner Kirsh Pozen’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioner Clemmons was absent. Commissioners Aslam and Krueger recused themselves due to their conflicts in associated organizations. 7. Approve a recommendation for enhancements to the City of Austin’s rapid-response and disaster-preparedness systems for unhoused residents during extreme weather. The recommendation was approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Oliva Martinez’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Clemmons was absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 8. Update from the intergroup relations working group about …
REGULAR MEETING of the HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Monday, May 19, 2025 6:00 p.m. Austin City Hall, Room 1101 301 W. 2nd St AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Human Rights Commission 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 Ryan Sperling at ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov or 512-974-3568 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Kolby Duhon, Chair (He/They) Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam (He/Him) Jeffrey Clemmons Harriett Kirsh Pozen Maryam Khawar Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Danielle Bryant Morgan Davis (He/Him) Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Tannya Oliva Martínez AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten 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 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on April 28, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and possible action to approve proposed language for a historical marker on 4th street. 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 contact Ryan Sperling, Office or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. the City Clerk 974-3568 (512) of at For more information on the Human Rights Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at (512) 974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov
Historical Marker Proposed Language This historical marker commemorates the contributions, struggles, and successes of Austin’s LGBTQIA+ community, whose historically denigrated members spanned all genders, races, classes, abilities, creeds, generations, and origins. LGBTQIA+ individuals lost their jobs, social standing, and lives for not conforming with societal norms. Outside of the isolation of private homes, downtown bars and nightclubs offered secret, safe havens for LGBTQIA+ people to gather, recover, and be accepted amongst their peers. Social justice movements in the 1960s advanced the struggles for justice, acceptance, and equality. Civil rights efforts for women and racial minorities gave rise to a national gay and lesbian rights movement and the Austin community was quick to join. A local chapter of the Gay Liberation Front was founded in 1970, with the first National Gay Liberation Conference hosted here in 1971. A vibrant culture emerged with the help of restaurants, bars, retail shops, bookstores, theaters, churches, and a wide variety of professionals and service providers. In the 1980s, a nightlife scene developed in this section of downtown, known as the “old warehouse” district around 4th Street and Colorado. Clubs with drag shows, entertainment, and dancing provided social support by offering safe places to gather and build community. Throughout the AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 1990s, the clubs offered occasions for sex education, counseling, and fundraising – and solace. In the 21st century, as the movement evolved to recognize all Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, Two- Spirit, Genderfluid, and other segments of the community, these blocks of bars and coffee shops became integrated with the rest of downtown – much like the assimilation of queer representation into mainstream culture. From 2000-2020, financial pressures brought on by market forces in a rapidly changing Austin challenged the business models which supported the historical LGBTQIA+ businesses in the area. Some of these establishments failed to survive when the COVID- 19 pandemic hit hardest in 2020. Despite these challenges and changes, this 4th street block and the buildings on it continue to represent Austin’s LGBTQIA+ community’s historical and future perseverance and identity.
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, April 28, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, April 28, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Gabrielle Zeidan (Vice Chair) Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Danielle Bryant Jeffrey Clemmons Maryam Khawar Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Morgan Davis Harriett Kirsh Pozen Alicia Weigel PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Mela Sarajane Dailey – Grant Funding APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2025. The minutes were approved without objection on Chair Duhon’s motion on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Weigel was off the dais. Commissioners Krueger and Oliva Martínez were absent. 2. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on March 24, 2025. The minutes were approved without objection on Chair Duhon’s motion on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Weigel was off the dais. Commissioners Krueger and Oliva Martínez were absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1 3. Discussion of the 2025 Texas Legislative Session with regards to bills related to human rights. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve a recommendation on the FY2025-26 Budget for Supporting Supplies to Enhance Immigrant Student Protections and Rights. The recommendation was amended to strike “and” before “materials”, insert “and grants” after “materials”, strike “$500,000” and insert “$250,000” in all instances, insert “not exclusive to ISDs” after Austin ISD, strike $150,000, strike $120,000, strike $100,000, strike $80,000, strike $50,000, insert “Grants and” before “coordination”, insert “Grant funding to total $150,000” after “Organizations”, and insert “grants” after “outreach” on Commissioner Bryant’s motion, Commissioner Aslam’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Krueger and Oliva Martínez were absent. The recommendation was approved as amended on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Aslam’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Krueger and Oliva Martínez were absent. 5. Approve a recommendation on the FY2025-26 Budget for Improving the Accuracy and Effectiveness of the Austin Point-In-Time (PIT) Count. The recommendation was amended to insert “WHEREAS, a more accurate PIT count can lead to additional federal funding due to a better understanding of where the city sits regarding homelessness”, strike $750,000 and insert $450,000 in all instances, strike $250,000, strike $200,000, strike $150,000, and strike $150,000 on Commissioner Bryant’s motion, Commissioner Aslam’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioners Krueger …
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISISON MEETING MINUTES Monday, May 19, 2025 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, May 19, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, May 19, 2025 at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Gabriella Zeidan (Vice Chair) Harriett Kirsh Pozen Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Danielle Bryant Jeffrey Clemmons Morgan Davis PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on April 28, 2025. The minutes were amended to strike “$125,000” in Item 6 and insert “$120,000” on Chair Duhon’s motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Clemmons was off the dais. Commissioners Khawar, Krueger, and Oliva Martínez were absent. The minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on April 28, 2025 were approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Kirsh Pozen’s second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Clemmons was off the dais. Commissioners Khawar, Krueger, and Oliva Martínez were absent. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Discussion and possible action to approve proposed language for a historical marker on 4th street. 1 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISISON MEETING MINUTES Monday, May 19, 2025 The proposed language was presented by Kim McKnight, Division Manager, Development Services Department. The motion to approve proposed language for a historical marker on 4th street was approved on Commissioner Davis’ motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Khawar, Krueger, and Oliva Martínez were absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Chair Duhon – Discussion and possible action to approve the Annual Internal Review at the July meeting. Second by Commissioner Clemmons. Commissioner Aslam – Recommendation regarding severe climate emergencies and cooling shelters at the June meeting. Second by Chair Duhon Commissioner Aslam – Recommendation regarding grant funding for nonprofits working on basic needs such as the Texas Central Food Bank. Second by Chair Duhon. ADJOURNMENT Chair Duhon adjourned the meeting at 6:14 p.m. without objection. The minutes were approved at the June 23, 2025 meeting without objection on Chair Duhon’s motion on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Clemmons and Krueger were off the dais. 2 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISISON MEETING MINUTES Monday, May 19, 2025 3
REGULAR MEETING of the HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Monday, April 28, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. Austin City Hall, Room 1101 301 W. 2nd St AUSTIN, TEXAS Some members of the Human Rights Commission 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 Ryan Sperling at ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov or 512-974-3568 CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS/COMMISSIONERS: Kolby Duhon, Chair (He/They) Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam (He/Him) Jeffrey Clemmons Harriett Kirsh Pozen Maryam Khawar Alicia Weigel (She/They) Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Danielle Bryant Morgan Davis (He/Him) Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Tannya Oliva Martínez AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first ten 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 1. 2. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on February 24, 2025. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on March 24, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion of the 2025 Texas Legislative Session with regards to bills related to human rights. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Approve a recommendation on the FY2025-26 Budget for Supporting Supplies to Enhance Immigrant Student Protections and Rights. Approve a recommendation on the FY2025-26 Budget for Improving the Accuracy and Effectiveness of the Austin Point-In-Time (PIT) Count. Approve a recommendation to Allocate Municipal Funding for Grants that Benefit Inclusive Arts Programs Supporting Autistic and Neurodivergent Communities. Nominate a commissioner to serve as the Human Rights Commission’s primary representative to the Joint Inclusion Committee. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair. 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 or contact Ryan Sperling, Office ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. the City Clerk 974-3568 …
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, February 24, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, February 24, 2025, at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Gabriella Zeidan (Vice Chair) Danielle Bryant Jeffrey Clemmons Morgan Davis Harriett Kirsh Pozen Tannya Oliva Martinez Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Mariana Krueger Srini Raghavan Alicia Weigel PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on January 27, 2025. The minutes were without objection on Chair Duhon’s motion on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Bryant, Krueger, Oliva Martinez, and Weigel were off the dais. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Presentation regarding American Gateways’ work supporting the immigrant community in Austin. Presentation by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways. 1 The presentation was made by Rebecca Lightsey, Co-Executive Director, American Gateways. 3. 4. 5. Presentation regarding understanding and recognizing modern antisemitism. Presentation by Abi Mallick, Jewish Voice for Peace. The presentation was made by Abi Mallick, Jewish Voice for Peace. Discussion on scheduling a potential presentation by Austin Police Department Chief Lisa Davis or other Austin Police Department staff. Discussion was held. Discussion on the 2025 Texas Legislative Session, with an overview of bills related to immigration and bail. Discussion was held. Update provided by Commissioner Clemmons. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. 7. Approve the formation of a working group to provide budget recommendations for the FY26 budget cycle. The motion to form a working group to provide budget recommendations for the FY26 budget cycle was approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Kirsh Pozen’s second on a 11-0 vote. Members will include Chair Duhon, and Commissioners Bryant, Clemmons, Oliva Martinez, and Zeidan. Approve a recommendation to protect immigrant communities and ensure access to accurate, accessible information and education in Austin schools and prioritize antidiscrimination efforts related to immigration status city wide. The recommendation was amended to insert “on the City of Austin website” after “city libraries” in paragraph 1 of the NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED section on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Clemmons’ second on an 11-0 vote. The recommendation was amended to strike paragraph 3 of the NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED section on Commissioner Bryant’s motion, Commissioner Clemmons’ second, on an 11-0 vote. The …
