REGULAR MEETING OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 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) Melinda Morgan Avitia 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 October 20, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Briefing regarding Austin Homeless Strategies and Operations’ current homelessness response efforts and key metrics. Briefing by David Gray, Director, Austin Homeless Strategies and Operations. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Discussion and possible action to amend the 2025 Annual Schedule to remove the December 2025 meeting. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 4. Update from the Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group regarding the status of the resource guide. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. For assistance, please contact the Liaison or TTY users’ route through 711. A person may request language access accommodations no later than 48 hours before the scheduled meeting. Please call or email Ryan Sperling at Austin City Clerk’s Office, at 512-974-3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov, to request service or for additional information. For more information on the Human Rights Commission, please contact Ryan Sperling at 512-974- 3568 or ryan.sperling@austintexas.gov.
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, October 27, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, October 27, 2025, at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Gabriella Zeidan (Vice Chair) Mariana Krueger Mindy Morgan Avitia Tannya Oliva Martinez Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Danielle Bryant Morgan Davis Maryam Khawar Harriett Kirsh Pozen PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None present. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on September 22, 2025. The minutes of the September 22, 2025 meeting were approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Zeidan’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Aslam was absent. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding how the Human Rights Commission can support the Equity Division and Office of Equity and Inclusion considering the investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. Discussion was held. 1 DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. Approve the nomination of Human Rights Commission members as primary and alternate Joint Inclusion Committee representatives. The nomination of Commissioner Oliva Martinez as the Human Rights Commission’s Inclusion Committee was approved on primary representative on the Joint Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Aslam was absent. The nomination of Commissioner Morgan Avitia as the Human Rights Commission’s alternate representative on the Joint Inclusion Committee was approved on Commissioner Bryant’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Aslam was absent. Approve the 2026 Annual Meeting Schedule of the Human Rights Commission. The motion to amend the draft 2026 annual meeting schedule to reflect that the May date will be 5/21 at 6:00 p.m. was approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Aslam was absent. The motion to amend the draft 2026 Annual Meeting Schedule to strike the December meeting date was approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Aslam was absent. The 2026 Annual Meeting Schedule was approved as amended on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Morgan Avitia’s second on a 9-0 vote. Commissioner Aslam was absent. 5. Approve changes to working group membership. Discussion was held. No action was taken. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 6. Update from the Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group regarding its proposed timeline for developing the …
Our Vision: Everyone has access to stable housing and the support they need to thrive. HSO Strategic Pillars System Leadership We are a trusted system leader, working collaboratively to ensure an efficient, accessible, and effective homeless response. Impactful Community Investments We make investments that resolve individual experiences of homelessness and result in meaningful system change. Crisis Response System Management We ensure that people experiencing homelessness have easy access to basic needs, outreach, crisis shelter, and other services to support survival and pathways to stable housing. Communications Through public dialogue and intentional communication with stakeholders, we strengthen community trust, align efforts and drive systemwide impact. Investing in our People We pursue a culture of continuous learning, creating a collaborative, supportive, and engaging workplace that centers growth, development, and well-being. Our staff are inspired and empowered to drive meaningful change. We’re building the capacity to serve more households and reduce unsheltered homelessness. We’re getting upstream with prevention and early intervention, serving more Austinites more quickly. Example Housing Situations • People facing eviction • People with low incomes who are severely rent burdened • People experiencing partner or family violence • People who are doubled up or living in other unstable housing situations HSO Investments in Early Intervention • Digital navigation and resource hotline • Prevention programs for households/youth • Diversion resources for quick resolution of new homelessness • Leverage brick-and-mortar facilities such as shelters and navigation centers to provide rapid exit funds. Help Households Exit Homelessness & Then Promote Stability Stabilize Divert Quickly Resolve Crisis When Not Prevented Prevent Problem Solve Before Crisis Happens $34,000-$40,000 Average cost of RRH or PSH services and subsidy per client per year. $2,040 Average one-time cost per early intervention per client. Spotlight: Digital Innovations PEH Text Alert System • Launched in 2023 to enhance emergency notifications. • Reaches more than 5,000 subscribers. Navigation Hotline • Staffed 60 hours per week. • Immediate screening for early intervention eligibility. • Live referrals to appropriate resources. • 1/3 of callers are families with children. Service Pods • Deployed at high traffic social and health service locations, like navigation centers and emergency rooms. • Video conferencing and tele-health capabilities. • Clients can complete or update a housing assessment. • Reduces need to visit brick-and-mortar locations. Online Resource Finder • Launched austintexas.gov/opennow in 2025. • Provides interactive, up-to-date information on the availability and locations of resources. We’re learning from our successes …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 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) Melinda Avitia 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 September 22, 2025. DISCUSSION ITEMS 2. Discussion regarding how the Human Rights Commission can support the Equity Division and Office of Equity and Inclusion considering the investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. 4. 5. Approve the nomination of Human Rights Commission members as primary and alternate Joint Inclusion Committee representatives. Approve the 2026 Annual Meeting Schedule of the Human Rights Commission. Approve changes to working group membership. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATES 6. Update from the Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group regarding its proposed timeline for developing the resource guide. 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
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Morgan Davis Tannya Oliva Martinez Mindy Morgan Avitia Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Danielle Bryant Mariana Krueger Gabriella Zeidan PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on July 28, 2025. The July 28, 2025 minutes were approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Davis’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Bryant was off the dais. Commissioners Aslam, Kirsh Pozen, and Khawar were absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 2. Update from the Budget Working Group regarding the steps the group has taken since its formation, including contact with Council members and planned next steps. Item 2 was taken up after item 3 without objection. Update by Chair Duhon. 1 DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion regarding a potential recommendation to promote safety, dignity, and equity in Restroom Access in City of Austin Facilities. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION & ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve the formation of an Austin Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group to gather resources, design, and identify printing methods for an Austin Human Rights Resource guide. The motion to approve the formation of an Austin Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group to gather resources, design, and identify printing methods for an Austin Human Rights Resource guide was approved on Chair Duhon’s motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Aslam, Kirsh Pozen, and Khawar were absent. WG Members: Bryant, Davis, Oliva Martinez, Morgan Avitia. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Approval of JIC primary and alternate representatives – Duhon, Davis Approve a recommendation to promote safety, dignity, and equity in Restroom Access in City of Austin Facilities – Duhon, Morgan Avitia Update from the Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group – Bryant, Krueger Update from the Budget Working Group – Bryant, Duhon Update from the Community Dialogue Working Group – Duhon, Zeidan Approve updates to working group membership - Duhon, Davis Discussion regarding how the Human Rights Commission can use its resources to support the Equity Office in light of the Department of Justice investigation – Morgan Avitia, Duhon ADJOURNMENT Chair Duhon adjourned the meeting at 6:45 p.m. without …
Human Rights Commission 2026 Regular Meeting Schedule City Hall, Boards & Commissions Room 1101 301 W 2nd St. Austin, Texas Monday, January 26, 6:00 P.M. Monday, February 23, 6:00 P.M. Monday, March 23, 6:00 P.M. Monday, April 27, 6:00 P.M. Monday, May 25, 6:00 P.M. (Memorial Day) Monday, June 22, 6:00 P.M. Monday, July 27, 6:00 P.M. Monday, August 24, 6:00 P.M. Monday, September 28, 6:00 P.M. Monday, October 26, 6:00 P.M. Monday, November 23, 6:00 P.M. Monday, December 28, 6:00 P.M.
REGULAR MEETING of the HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Monday, September 22, 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 July 28, 2025. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 2. Update from the Budget Working Group regarding the steps the group has taken since its formation, including contact with Council members and planned next steps. DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion regarding a potential recommendation to promote safety, dignity, and equity in Restroom Access in City of Austin Facilities. DISCUSSION & ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve the formation of an Austin Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group to gather resources, design, and identify printing methods for an Austin Human Rights Resource guide. 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
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, July 28, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 301 West 2nd St, Boards and Commissions Room in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Gabrielle Zeidan (Vice Chair) Jeffrey Clemmons Harriet Kirsh Pozen Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Danielle Bryant Morgan Davis Mariana Krueger Tannya Oliva Martinez PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Zenobia Joseph – Gus Garcia/ Northeast YMCA Homeless Needs APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on June 23, 2025. The minutes of the June 23, 2025, meeting were approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Bryant’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Krueger and Oliva Martinez were off the dais. Commissioner Khawar was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Introduction of the City Manager to the commission. 1 The presentation was made by T.C. Broadnax, City Manager, Austin Office of the City Manager. 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. The presentation was made by Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion. Commissioner Oliva Martinez requested data regarding housing. 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. The presentation was made by Julie Ann Nitsch, Austin Community College Trustee. 5. Update regarding actions by the Texas State Legislature in 2025 relating to human rights. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report. The motion to approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report was approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Clemmon’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Aslam was off the dais. Commissioner Khawar was absent. 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. Commissioner Clemmons provided an update. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Update from the Budget Working Group Joint Inclusion Committee Update Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding …
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 301 W. 2nd St., Boards & Commissions Room, in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Morgan Davis Tannya Oliva Martinez Mindy Morgan Avitia Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Danielle Bryant Mariana Krueger Gabriella Zeidan PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on July 28, 2025. The July 28, 2025 minutes were approved on Commissioner Krueger’s motion, Commissioner Davis’ second on a 6-0 vote. Commissioner Bryant was off the dais. Commissioners Aslam, Kirsh Pozen, and Khawar were absent. WORKING GROUP UPDATES 2. Update from the Budget Working Group regarding the steps the group has taken since its formation, including contact with Council members and planned next steps. Item 2 was taken up after item 3 without objection. Update by Chair Duhon. 1 DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Discussion regarding a potential recommendation to promote safety, dignity, and equity in Restroom Access in City of Austin Facilities. Discussion was held. DISCUSSION & ACTION ITEMS 4. Approve the formation of an Austin Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group to gather resources, design, and identify printing methods for an Austin Human Rights Resource guide. The motion to approve the formation of an Austin Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group to gather resources, design, and identify printing methods for an Austin Human Rights Resource guide was approved on Chair Duhon’s motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Aslam, Kirsh Pozen, and Khawar were absent. WG Members: Bryant, Davis, Oliva Martinez, Morgan Avitia. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Approval of JIC primary and alternate representatives – Duhon, Davis Approve a recommendation to promote safety, dignity, and equity in Restroom Access in City of Austin Facilities – Duhon, Morgan Avitia Update from the Human Rights Resource Guide Working Group – Bryant, Krueger Update from the Budget Working Group – Bryant, Duhon Update from the Community Dialogue Working Group – Duhon, Zeidan Approve updates to working group membership - Duhon, Davis Discussion regarding how the Human Rights Commission can use its resources to support the Equity Office in light of the Department of Justice investigation – Morgan Avitia, Duhon ADJOURNMENT Chair Duhon adjourned the meeting at 6:45 p.m. without …
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 …
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES Monday, July 28, 2025 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 301 West 2nd St, Boards and Commissions Room in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon (Chair) Gabrielle Zeidan (Vice Chair) Jeffrey Clemmons Harriet Kirsh Pozen Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Muneeb “Meebs” Aslam Danielle Bryant Morgan Davis Mariana Krueger Tannya Oliva Martinez PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Zenobia Joseph – Gus Garcia/ Northeast YMCA Homeless Needs APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission regular meeting on June 23, 2025. The minutes of the June 23, 2025, meeting were approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Bryant’s second, on a 7-0 vote. Commissioners Krueger and Oliva Martinez were off the dais. Commissioner Khawar was absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Introduction of the City Manager to the commission. 1 The presentation was made by T.C. Broadnax, City Manager, Austin Office of the City Manager. 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. The presentation was made by Dr. Lindsey Wilson, Director, Austin Equity and Inclusion, and Shafina Khaki, Human Rights Officer, Austin Equity and Inclusion. Commissioner Oliva Martinez requested data regarding housing. 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. The presentation was made by Julie Ann Nitsch, Austin Community College Trustee. 5. Update regarding actions by the Texas State Legislature in 2025 relating to human rights. Discussed. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report. The motion to approve the 2024-2025 Annual Internal Review Report was approved on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Clemmon’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Aslam was off the dais. Commissioner Khawar was absent. 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. Commissioner Clemmons provided an update. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Update from the Budget Working Group Joint Inclusion Committee Update Approve a Recommendation to Council regarding …
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
