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Approved Minutes — original pdf
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION SPECIAL CALLED MEETING MINUTES MONDAY MAY 20, 2024 The Human Rights Commission convened in a special called meeting on May 20, 2024, at 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr. in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:07 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon, Chair Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Harriet Kirsh Pozen Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Meebs Aslam Danielle Bryant Jeffrey Clemmons Morgan Davis Mariana Krueger Commissioners Absent: Srini Raghavan Michael Stevenson Alicia Weigel PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1 Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission meeting on April 22, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of April 22, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Clemmons’ Motion, Commissioner Krueger’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Raghavan, Stevenson, and Weigel were absent. 2. Approve a recommendation to condemn the enactment of the State of Texas' Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion ban (Senate Bill 17) and its effect on the University of Texas. The recommendation was approved with the following friendly amendments on Vice Chair Zeidan’s motion, Commissioner Kirsh Pozen’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Raghavan, Stevenson, and Weigel were absent. The friendly amendment from Chair Duhon was to add a section six to the Be It Resolved Section to read as follows. This was accepted by the maker of the motion, Vice Chair Zeidan. “6. The Commission calls on Council to support budget recommendation 20240325-06 titled Addressing the Ban on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives passed by this body at the March 25th, 2024 meeting.” The friendly amendment from Commissioner Clemmons was to revise section five of the Be It Resolved section to read as follows. This was accepted by the maker of the motion, Vice Chair Zeidan. “5. The Commission recommends the City Clerk to forward a copy of this resolution to the Governor of Texas, the Lieutenant Governor, Chair of the Texas Legislature Higher Education Committee, members of the Texas Legislature, the President of the University of Texas at Austin, and other relevant stakeholders.” Approve a recommendation to call on City Council to engage with the University of Texas to cease the use of police force to suppress student protests, work with student activists to find peaceful and constructive solutions, protect free speech and peaceful protest, protect student rights, and call on City Council to investigate the use of force and arrests of student …
Agenda — original pdf
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Regular Meeting Monday, April 22, 2024 6:00 p.m. Austin City Hall, Board & Commission Room, 1101 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 AGENDA Some members of the Human Rights Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may speak up to three minutes on an item only once either in-person or remotely. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, call or email the board liaison at 512-974-3253 or Damian.Pantoja@austintexas.gov CURRENT COMMISSION MEMBERS: Kolby Duhon, Chair (He/They) Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Alicia Weigel (She/They) Michael Stevenson Muneeb ‘Meebs’ Aslam (He/Him) Morgan Davis (He/Him) CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Jeffrey Clemmons Srini Raghavan Harriett Kirsh Pozen Danielle Bryant 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 DISCUSSION ITEM 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission meeting on March 25, 2024. 2. Welcome the new Commissioners and allow introductions. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve a recommendation related to transgender and sexual identity protections. 4. Conduct office elections for the Chair and Vice Chair for the term ending in April 2025. 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 email Damian Pantoja at damian.pantoja@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711.
20240422-003: DRAFT — original pdf
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Draft Number: 20240422‐003 Transgender and Sexual Identity Protections WHEREAS, the City of Austin has been one of the fastest‐growing cities in the United States for over a decade, resulting in rapidly increasing demands on housing, infrastructure, public safety, and other city resources; and WHEREAS, in 2023, the Texas state legislature passed legislation restricting or criminalizing access to gender‐affirming healthcare across Texas, which was subsequently signed by the governor and became law effective September 1, 2023; and WHEREAS, as a home‐rule city, the City has the authority and responsibility to prioritize the use of its limited resources and taxpayer dollars to address the most urgent needs of all residents, including focusing the use of public safety resources on substantive and broad threats to residents’ safety and livelihood; and WHEREAS the City Council recognizes that families and healthcare providers in Austin are living in uncertainty and fear, and many are considering moving away or have already moved to other states to access medical care for their children or to be able to practice medicine freely in accordance with professional and ethical standards; and WHEREAS multiple healthcare providers in Texas have scaled back healthcare services in response to legal challenges, perception of legal risk, harassment, or threats of violence; and WHEREAS gender‐affirming healthcare has been proven to be evidence‐based, medically necessary, and lifesaving by the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the American Academy of Pediatricians, the Endocrine Society, the American Psychiatric Association, and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, amongst other institutions; and WHEREAS, studies have shown that gender transition, including access to gender‐affirming healthcare, improves the overall well‐being of transgender people and that access to gender‐affirming healthcare for youth is associated with better mental health outcomes and lower risks of suicide; and WHEREAS over 94 percent of LGBTQIA+ youth surveyed by the Trevor Project in late 2021 said recent politics have negatively impacted their mental health, and 93 percent of transgender and nonbinary youth surveyed by the Trevor Project in 2022 said they have worried about transgender people being denied access to gender‐affirming medical care due to state or local laws; and WHEREAS a majority of U.S. adults agree that transgender minors should have access to gender‐ affirming care; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has consistently declared its commitment to furthering transgender equity and supporting its transgender and nonbinary …
Recommendation 20240422-003: Transgender, Sexual Identity, and Gender Identity Protection — original pdf
Recommendation
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Approved Minutes — original pdf
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY APRIL 22, 2024 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on April 22, 2024, at 301 W. 2nd Street in Austin, Texas. Chair Duhon called the Human Rights Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Commissioners in Attendance: Kolby Duhon, Chair Danielle Bryant Jeffrey Clemmons Morgan Davis Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Meebs Aslam Mariana Krueger Srini Raghavan Michael Stevenson Alicia Weigel Commissioners Absent: Harriet Kirsh Pozen PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1 Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission meeting on March 25, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of March 25, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Davis’ Motion, Commissioner Clemmons’ second on an 8-0 vote. Vice Chair Zeidan and Commissioner Weigel were off the dais. Commissioner Kirsh Pozen was absent. 2. Welcome the new Commissioners and allow introductions. Commissioner Bryant introduced herself. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 3. Approve a recommendation related to transgender and sexual identity protections. A motion to approve the recommendation was made by Commissioner Clemmons and seconded by Vice Chair Zeidan. An amendment to change the title of the recommendation to read “Transgender, Sexual Identity, and Gender Identity Protections” was made by Commissioner Krueger, seconded by Commissioner Bryant, and approved without objection. An amendment to revise where the recommendation reads “transgender and nonbinary” to read “transgender, nonbinary, and gender expansive,” excluding the references in the first and third Whereas clauses of the second page, was made by Chair Duhon, seconded by Commissioner Krueger, and approved without objection. The recommendation was approved as amended on Commissioner Clemmons’ motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 9-1 vote. Commissioner Raghavan voted nay. Commissioner Kirsh Pozen was absent. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair for the term ending in April 2025 Commissioner Davis nominated Commissioner Duhon for the role of Chair with a second from Commissioner Zeidan. The motion to elect Commissioner Duhon as Chair was approved on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Kirsh Pozen was absent. Commissioner Krueger nominated Commissioner Zeidan for the role of Vice Chair with a second from Commissioner Clemmons. The motion to elect Commissioner Zeidan as Vice Chair was approved on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Kirsh Pozen was absent. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS A future recommendation related to Austin Police Department vacancies was requested by Commissioner Aslam and Chair Duhon. A future recommendation related to …
Agenda — original pdf
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Regular Meeting Monday, March 25, 2024 6:00 p.m. – Adjournment Austin City Hall, Board & Commission Room, 1101 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 AGENDA Some members of the Human Rights Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may speak up to three minutes on an item only once either in-person or remotely. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, call or email the board liaison at 512-974-3253 or Damian.Pantoja@austintexas.gov CURRENT COMMISSION MEMBERS: Kolby Duhon, Vice Chair (He/They)\ Alicia Weigel (She/They) Gabriella Zeidan Michael Stevenson Muneeb ‘Meebs’ Aslam (He/Him) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES Morgan Davis (He/Him) Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Jeffrey Clemmons Srini Raghavan 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission meeting on February 26, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Select an alternative Human Rights Commission member to represent the Commission to support the development and implementation of the Imagine Austin comprehensive engagement process. 3. Approve a recommendation for Promoting a Culture of Care thought Implementation of Harm Reduction Strategies in our Communities. 4. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Increased Emergency 5. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Funding of Emergency 6. Approve a recommendation for addressing the ban on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Housing Assistance. Housing Assistance. initiatives. 7. Approve a recommendation for addressing the difficulties confronted by immigrants and refugees through immigrant supportive policies. 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 email Damian Pantoja at damian.pantoja@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711.
Backup — original pdf
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: 20240325-04: Budget Proposal for Increased Emergency Housing Assistance WHEREAS, the City of Austin is facing a housing affordability crisis as data reports show that the overall median rent is now $2,100, with the median rent for a one bedroom at $1,443. WHEREAS, per the Eviction Lab at Princeton University, eviction filings in Austin have soared to over 50% higher than the pre-pandemic average rate, with communities of color drastically more at risk of eviction in a state with some of the country’s weakest protections for renters. WHEREAS, a record 2.1 million renters, more than half of the state’s renter households, are “cost burdened,” meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities per a recent Harvard University study. WHEREAS, the State of Texas shuttered it’s statewide rent relief program last summer leaving it up to municipalities to act on the growing rental crisis. Austin has stepped up to the plate, most recently in December with an $8 million rental assistance and eviction support through the City of Austin Housing Department’s “I Belong in Austin” program. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission encourages the Austin City Council to allocate at least another $8 million dollars in rent relief funds and explore all available means in order to create short, medium, and long term solutions for individuals at risk of eviction in Austin. Date of Approval: Record of the vote: Attest:
Backup — original pdf
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, FEB 26, 2024 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Regular Meeting MINUTES Monday, February 26, 2024 The Human Rights Commission convened in a REGULAR meeting on Monday, February 26, 2024, at Austin City Hall, Board & Commission Room, 1101, 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Vice Chair Duhon called the BOARD NAME Meeting to order at 6:04 p.m. Board Members/Commissioner in Attendance: Vice Chair K. Duhon, J. Clemmons, M. Davis, S. Raghavan (6:09 PM), G. Zeidan, Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: M. Aslam, M. Krueger PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission meeting on January 22, 2024 The Minutes from the meeting of January 22, 2024 were approved on M. Davis motion; M. Krueger seconded the motion; motion passed 6 – 0; Raghavan off the dais; A. Weigel, L. Garcia, and M. Steveson were absent 2. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission special meeting on Dec 11, 2022 The Minutes from the meeting of December 11, 2022 were approved on M. Davis motion; M. Krueger seconded the motion; motion passed 6 – 0; Raghavan off the dais; A. Weigel, L. Garcia, and M. Steveson were absent STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing regarding updating the 2012 Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan. Presented by April Geruso, Planning Department. The presentation was made by April Geruso with the Planning Department. 1 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES DISCUSSION ITEMS MONDAY, FEB 26, 2024 4. Discussion of a new May 2024 Commission meeting date 5. Presentation by The American Gateway about the services they provide that improve the quality of life for the immigrant community in Austin. 6. Presentation by Commissioner Davis about ATX Kind DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair for a term ending in April 2024. The motion to approve K. Duhon to be the Chair was approved on M. Davis motion and G. Zeidan seconded the motion; motion passed 7 – 0; A. Weigel, L. Garcia, and M. Steveson were absent. The motion to approve G. Zeidan for Vice Chair was approved on M. Krueger motion and M. Aslam seconded the motion; motion passed 7 – 0; A. Weigel, L. Garcia, and M. Steveson were absent. 8. Approve a recommendation for Addressing the Youth Mental Health Crisis through Enhanced Budgetary Allocations and Support for Local Nonprofits and Community-Based Organizations The …
Backup — original pdf
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: 20240325-03: Promoting a Culture of Care Through the Implantation of Harm Reduction Strategies in our Communities. Whereas, the War on Drugs describes the continued prohibition on and criminalization of a broad set of substances under the Controlled Substances Act; and, Whereas, harm reduction, in the context of substance use, is a community-oriented public health and safety approach aimed at reducing the negative consequences associated with the use of substances; and, Whereas, harm reduction is one of the four core strategies being implemented by the Department of Health and Human Services to address the ongoing Opioid Crisis; and, Whereas, in 2022 the CDC counts 51,435 total overdose deaths, among which 64.3% could have been prevented by intervention, including over 120 overdoses in Austin for the same year; and, Whereas, in 2022, Travis County ranked 27th among Texas counties with the highest number of unintentional overdose deaths, representing a 23% increase from two years prior, per CDC data; and, Whereas, the City of Austin was also the recipient of $1.53m from the State's disbursement of Opioid Settlement Funding, the express purpose for which is to address opioid related harms in the communities; and, Whereas, the current substance use crisis is inflamed by state laws encouraging abstinence and criminalization-especially regarding the possession of drug paraphernalia including sterile injection materials, testing supplies, and supervised use-have made it more difficult for individuals, organizations, and municipalities to seek and render life-saving aid; and, Whereas, in the midst of a statewide healthcare crisis under which over 4 million people, per the Texas Medical Association, lack healthcare, including up to 20% of Austin's own citizens under 65; and, Whereas, stagnant or negative statewide healthcare funding, including for labor and infrastructure, has exacerbated existing gaps in coverage and made it more difficult for individuals to seek care in a timely manner; and, Whereas, the costs and stigma associated with substance use create a barrier to outreach and access for those who need it most; and Whereas, the City of Austin's mission involves "partner[ing] with one another and with our community to provide the best service possible" and "actively seek[ing] out good ideas that have a lasting, positive impact on our work, our community and our environment,"; and, Whereas, discrimination based on substance use is in conflict with this Commission's responsibility to further human rights in the City of Austin, and therefore poses …
Backup — original pdf
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number 20240325-07: Addressing the difficulties confronted by immigrants and refugees through immigrant supportive policies. WHEREAS, the United States is in critical need of comprehensive immigration reform that reflects the values of fairness, compassion, and respect for due process. The current immigration system is outdated, overly complex, and lacks sufficient pathways for legal immigration, leading to widespread inefficiencies and injustices in the treatment of immigrants and refugees seeking to contribute to American society. WHEREAS, the robustness of the U.S. economy relies on the contributions of immigrant workers who fill vital roles in industries such as agriculture, hospitality, healthcare, and technology. Immigrants not only fill essential jobs that many American citizens are unwilling to undertake but also stimulate economic growth by establishing businesses, purchasing goods and services, and paying taxes, thereby enriching local communities and bolstering the national economy. WHEREAS, recent years have witnessed a concerning rise in anti-immigrant sentiment, perpetuated by populist politicians who scapegoat immigrants for societal challenges and economic insecurities. In regions like Texas, which is home to a significant immigrant population, such divisive rhetoric has exacerbated tensions and fostered a climate of fear and hostility towards immigrant communities, undermining social cohesion and collective well-being. WHEREAS, a substantial number of immigrants seeking refuge in the United States are asylum seekers fleeing dire circumstances in their home countries, including poverty, violence, political persecution, and environmental disasters. These individuals and families embark on perilous journeys in search of safety and opportunity, often facing additional hardships and trauma along the way. WHEREAS, the city of Austin prides itself on its values of freedom, compassion, and inclusivity, recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals regardless of their immigration status. In the absence of meaningful immigration reforms and permanent protections for immigrant families at the federal level, community organizations play a vital role in providing essential services and support to immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers, ensuring their basic needs are met and their rights upheld. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Austin City Council, in partnership with the Human Rights Commission, is called on to reaffirm its commitment to supporting immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers in the local community by implementing the following measures: • Enhanced Budgetary Allocations: The Austin City Council is called on to pledge to allocate additional resources in the city budget to fund programs, initiatives, and services specifically tailored to meet …
Backup — original pdf
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number 20240325-06: Addressing the Ban on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives. WHEREAS, Texas state law SB17, which took effect on January 1st, 2024, has ignited a contentious debate surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at public institutions of higher education. The legislation, while seemingly aimed at promoting equal treatment and opportunity, has sparked concerns among stakeholders about its potential to stifle efforts to address systemic inequities and promote diversity on college campuses. Critics argue that the law's broad language and prohibitions on certain forms of outreach and support for underrepresented groups could have unintended consequences, including the erosion of longstanding diversity initiatives and the exacerbation of disparities in educational outcomes. Moreover, the implementation of SB17 has raised questions about the role of universities in advancing social justice and equity, as well as the appropriate balance between state regulation and institutional autonomy in matters of diversity and inclusion. WHEREAS, the ramifications of SB17 extend beyond the realm of policy and regulation, permeating the very fabric of academic life and community engagement. In the wake of the law's enactment, public higher education institutions in Texas have grappled with a climate of uncertainty and apprehension, as administrators, faculty, and students navigate the complexities of compliance while striving to uphold principles of fairness, inclusivity, and respect for diversity. The chilling effect of SB17 has been palpable, with reports of self-censorship and reluctance to engage in discussions about race, gender, and other identity-related issues out of fear of reprisal or legal sanction. Such dynamics have profound implications for the educational experience and intellectual vitality of college campuses, where open dialogue and robust exchange of ideas are foundational to the pursuit of knowledge and understanding. WHEREAS, the implementation of SB17 has cast a shadow of doubt over the future of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts at the University of Texas at Austin and Austin Community College, a venerable institution with a rich tradition of academic excellence and cultural diversity. As the flagship university of the state's public higher education system, UT Austin plays a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual landscape of Texas and beyond, serving as a beacon of innovation, scholarship, and social progress. However, the constraints imposed by SB17 threaten to undermine the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion, jeopardizing its ability to attract and retain a diverse student body, faculty, and staff. Moreover, the chilling effect of …
Backup — original pdf
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number 20240325-05: Funding for Emergency Housing Assistance WHEREAS, Austin continues to face a housing affordability crises particularly impacting renters that have seen multiple years of rental increases, and WHEREAS, the LGBTQ Quality of Life Study noted that the increase cost of rental housing was the highest-ranked domain of priority for participants in the town hall meetings, and WHEREAS, in the referenced Study, 10% of respondents indicated they had been homeless in the last 5 years, 65% of respondents spent 30% or more of their income on housing while 9% spent more than half of their income, and WHEREAS, the City of Austin provided funding for a program entitled "I Belong in Austin" to provide emergency assistance for renters in danger of losing their housing including short-term rental assistance as well as moving and storage expenses to lessen the impact of forced relocation, and WHEREAS, "I Belong in Austin" had over 800 people on the waiting list when the program began this year and that waiting list quickly grew to 4,000 before being capped at that number indicating the continuing need for this assistance, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission supports the LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission recommendation that the Austin City Council approve continued funding in the next fiscal year based on an evaluation of the program's effectiveness in preventing homelessness for diverse clients in order to mitigate the affordability crisis and accomplish strategic goals related to housing stabilization, economic opportunity and affordability. Date of Approval: _ Record of the vote: Attest:
Approved Minutes — original pdf
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, MAR 25, 2024 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Regular Meeting MINUTES Monday, March 25, 2024 The Human Rights Commission convened in a REGULAR CALLED meeting on, MONDAY, MARCH 25, 2024 at Austin City Hall, Board & Commission Room, 1101301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701. Called the Human Rights Commission Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Chair K. Duhon, J. Clemmons, G. Zedian, Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: M, Aslam, M. Daivs (left the meeting at 6:47 pm), S. Raghavan, M. Stevenson, A. Weigel (arrived at 6:05 pm), M. Krueger (arrived at 6:26 pm) APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission meeting on February 26, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of 2/26/2024 were approved on Commissioner Zedian motion and no objection. Commissioner Weigel and Commissioner Krueger were absent from the vote. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Select an alternative Human Rights Commission member to represent the Commission to support the development and implementation of the Imagine Austin comprehensive engagement process. The motion to approve selecting an alternative was approved on Commissioner Raghavan motion, Commissioner Clemmons second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioner Krueger was absent from the vote. 3. Approve a recommendation for Promoting a Culture of Care thought Implementation of Harm Reduction Strategies in our Communities. 1 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, MAR 25, 2024 The motion to approve Recommendation 20230325-03 with amendments was approved on Commissioner Clemmons motion, Commissioner Davis second on a 6-4 vote. Commissioner Raghavan and Commissioner Weigel opposed the recommendation. Commissioner Krueger was absent from the vote. The friendly amendment from Commissioner Clemmons was to fix the typo to Implementation. This was accepted by the maker of the motion and Commissioner Zedian, who seconded the motion. 4. Approve a recommendation on the FY 2024-25 Budget for Increased Emergency Housing Assistance. The motion to approve Recommendation 20230325-04 with amendments was approved on Commissioner Duhon motion, Commissioner Clemmons second on a 9-0 vote. The friendly amendment from Commissioner Aslam was NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission calls on the City to prioritize disbursement of funds anti displacement measures aimed at historically marginalized and redlined communities. This was accepted by Commissioner Aslam and seconded by Chair Duhon. Commissioner Kruger was off dais. The friendly amendment from Commissioner Clemmons was The Human Rights Commission believe housing is a human right …
Agenda — original pdf
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Regular Meeting Monday, February 26, 2024 6:00 p.m. – Adjournment Austin City Hall, Board & Commission Room, 1101 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 AGENDA Some members of the Human Rights Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may speak up to three minutes on an item only once either in-person or remotely. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, call or email the board liaison at 512-974-3253 or Damian.Pantoja@austintexas.gov CURRENT COMMISSION MEMBERS: Kolby Duhon, Vice Chair (He/They) Alicia Weigel (She/They) Lorraine M. Garcia Gabriella Zeidan Michael Stevenson Muneeb ‘Meebs’ Aslam (He/Him) Morgan Davis (He/Him) Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Jeffrey Clemmons Srini Raghavan AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission meeting on January 22, 2024 2. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission special meeting on Dec 11, 2022 STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing regarding updating the 2012 Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan. Presented by April Geruso, Planning Department. DISCUSSION ITEMS 4. Discussion of a new May 2024 Commission meeting date 5. Presentation by The American Gateway about the services they provide that improve the quality of life for the immigrant community in Austin. 6. Presentation by Commissioner Davis about ATX Kind DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 7. Conduct officer elections for the Chair and Vice Chair for a term ending in April 2024. 8. Approve a recommendation for Addressing the Youth Mental Health Crisis through Enhanced Budgetary Allocations and Support for Local Nonprofits and Community- Based Organizations 9. Select an Human Rights Commission member to represent the Commission to support the development and implementation of the Imagine Austin comprehensive engagement process. WORKING GROUP/COMMITTEE UPDATE 10. Update from the Budget Working Group regarding 2025 Budget Process 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 email Damian Pantoja at damian.pantoja@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711.
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Agenda — original pdf
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Regular Meeting Monday, January 22, 2024 6:00 p.m. – Adjournment Austin City Hall, Board & Commission Room, 1101 301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 AGENDA Some members of the Human Rights Commission may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may speak up to three minutes on an item only once either in-person or remotely. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register, call or email the board liaison at 512-974-3253 or Damian.Pantoja@austintexas.gov CURRENT COMMISSION MEMBERS: Idona Griffith, Chair (She/Her) Kolby Duhon, Vice Chair (He/They) Alicia Weigel (She/They) Lorraine M. Garcia Gabriella Zeidan Michael Stevenson AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL APPROVAL OF MINUTES Muneeb ‘Meebs’ Aslam (He/Him) Morgan Davis (He/Him) Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Jeffrey Clemmons Srini Raghavan 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission meeting on November 27, 2023 2. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission special meeting on Dec 11, 2022 STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Introduce the new Commissioner and allow opportunity for introductions. 4. Discussion with a member from Austin Police Department to hear about APD’s goals and 5. Update from the Join Inclusion Committee by Morgan Davis or Meebs Aslam 6. Commissioner Davis to present and share information about ATX Kind DISCUSSION ITEMS 2024 objectives 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 email Damian Pantoja at damian.pantoja@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711.
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Approved Minutes — original pdf
HUMAN RIGHTS MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, JANUARY 22, 2024 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Regular Meeting MINUTES Monday, January 22, 2024 The Human Rights Commission convened in REGULAR CALLED meeting on Monday, January 22, 2024 at Austin City Hall, Board & Commission Room, 1101301 West 2nd Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Chair I. Griffith called the Human Rights Meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Board members/Commissioner in Attendance: Chair I. Griffith, M. Aslam, J. Clemmons, M. Davis, K. Duhon, L. Garcia, M. Krueger, M. Stevenson, A. Weigel, G. Zeidan, APPROVAL OF MINUTES – COMPLETED 1. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission meeting on November 27, 2023 The minutes from the meeting 11/27/2023 were approved on G. Zeidan and J. Clemmons seconded the motion; motion carried 8 – 0. K. Duhon & M. Davis were off the dais. S. Raghavan was absent. 2. Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission special meeting on Dec 11, 2022 Moved to February 2024 Meeting STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Introduce the new Commissioner and allow opportunity for introductions. Chair I. Griffith welcomed the new Commissioner, Raghavan DISCUSSION ITEMS 2024 objectives 4. Discussion with a member from Austin Police Department to hear about APD’s goals and Discussion lead by Lt. Elijah Myrick with the Austin Police Department 5. Update from the Join Inclusion Committee by Morgan Davis or Meebs Aslam Updated from Commissioner Daivs and Aslam. HUMAN RIGHTS MEETING MINUTES MONDAY, JANUARY 22, 2024 6. Commissioner Davis to present and share information about ATX Kind Updated from Commissioner Daivs. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Update from the Join Inclusion Committee by Morgan Davis or Meebs Aslam Commissioner Davis to present and share information about ATX Kind Commissioner Clemmons suggested to draft a recommendation on making Austin a Trans sanctuary City for the February Meeting Commissioner Davis and Clemmons to provide an update about recommendation Commissioner Aslam suggested a recommendation on the CDC report for the February ADJOURNMENT Commissioner M. Davis adjourn the meeting at 7:26 p.m. without objection. The Minutes from the meeting of January 22, 2024 were approved on M. Davis motion; M. Krueger seconded the motion; motion passed 6 – 0; Raghavan off the dais; A. Weigel, L. Garcia, and M. Steveson were absent