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. 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. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 1 3. 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 …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommenda2on Number: (20240624): Resolu2on on Addressing the Rise in Drug Overdoses in the City of Aus2n and Promo2ng the Legaliza2on of Fentanyl Tes2ng Strips and Harm Reduc2on Efforts WHEREAS the War on Drugs describes the con<nued prohibi<on and criminaliza<on of a broad set of substances under the Controlled Substances Act; and WHEREAS harm reduc<on, in the context of substance use, is a community-oriented public health and safety approach aimed at reducing the nega<ve consequences associated with the use of substances; and WHEREAS harm reduc<on 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 Travis County has experienced a significant increase in drug overdoses, exacerbated by the prevalence of fentanyl and other synthe<c opioids; and WHEREAS the opioid crisis con<nues to devastate families and communi<es, with fentanyl being a leading cause of overdose deaths, killing five Texans daily in the previous year; and WHEREAS the Texas Legislature passed several bills into law in 2023 to combat the fentanyl crisis, including measures to distribute naloxone on college campuses and to increase public awareness of the dangers of fentanyl; and WHEREAS fentanyl test strips, proven to be highly effec<ve in detec<ng the presence of fentanyl in drugs, are a cri<cal harm reduc<on tool that can save lives by allowing individuals to test substances before use; and WHEREAS research shows that fentanyl test strips are between 96 percent and 100 percent accurate, providing a cost-efficient method to prevent overdoses; and WHEREAS despite bipar<san support in the Texas House of Representa<ves, the bill to decriminalize fentanyl test strips did not pass in the Senate, leaving Texas as one of the few states where these lifesaving tools remain illegal; and WHEREAS public health experts, families affected by fentanyl-related tragedies, and medical professionals advocate for the decriminaliza<on and widespread availability of fentanyl test strips to reduce overdose deaths; and WHEREAS other states have successfully implemented the distribu<on of test strips through community health centers, convenience stores, and vending machines, some<mes for free, demonstra<ng their feasibility and efficacy in harm reduc<on efforts; and WHEREAS legal barriers to accessing fentanyl test strips hinder harm reduc<on organiza<ons from receiving funding and distribu<ng these essen<al tools to those in need; and WHEREAS the availability of fentanyl test strips allows individuals to make more informed decisions, poten<ally preven<ng drug use or …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Recommendation on Public Safety at Austin Pride Parade and Pride Events WHEREAS the City of Austin has formally recognized Pride month with an official proclamation “reaffirming the City’s commitment to inclusivity, equity, and allyship”; and WHEREAS Pride month and surrounding celebrations have been prominent to Austin’s culture since its first Pride week in 1982; and WHEREAS members of the LGBTQIA+ community continue to be targets of hate incidents, violent threats, and extremist legislation; and WHEREAS Pride events in Austin have been canceled this year due to bomb and death threats; and WHEREAS Pride events in Austin have been canceled this year due to bomb and death threats, such as the cancellation of the "Legendary Drag Brunch and Market" due to a bomb threat; and WHEREAS Texas has seen a significant increase in reported anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes, with Austin experiencing a rise from 12 incidents in 2019 to 51 in 2023; and WHEREAS these threats limit Austin’s ability to be the most livable city in the country; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City of Austin’s Human Rights Commission that the Austin City Council calls upon relevant public safety departments to implement additional safety measures for the August 2024 Pride Parade and subsequent events. These measures should include, but not be limited to: ● Adequate street closures for the Austin Pride Parade to eliminate vehicle traffic in the immediate area; ● Deployment of both uniformed and plainclothes officers in surrounding areas; ● Briefing local FBI authorities on recent bomb threats and other hate crimes related to the LGBTQIA+ community to monitor and address any active threats. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Austin City Council utilizes the resources of the We All Belong campaign to increase public awareness of the purpose and significance of Pride and all related events, including the August Pride Parade. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign)
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number 20240624-003: Addressing the Rise in Drug Overdoses in the City of Austin and Promoting the Legalization of Fentanyl Testing Strips and Harm Reduction Efforts WHEREAS the War on Drugs describes the continued prohibition 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 Travis County has experienced a significant increase in drug overdoses, exacerbated by the prevalence of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids; and WHEREAS the opioid crisis continues to devastate families and communities, with fentanyl being a leading cause of overdose deaths, killing five Texans daily in the previous year; and WHEREAS the Texas Legislature passed several bills into law in 2023 to combat the fentanyl crisis, including measures to distribute naloxone on college campuses and to increase public awareness of the dangers of fentanyl; and WHEREAS fentanyl test strips, proven to be highly effective in detecting the presence of fentanyl in drugs, are a critical harm reduction tool that can save lives by allowing individuals to test substances before use; and WHEREAS research shows that fentanyl test strips are between 96 percent and 100 percent accurate, providing a cost-efficient method to prevent overdoses; and WHEREAS despite bipartisan support in the Texas House of Representatives, the bill to decriminalize fentanyl test strips did not pass in the Senate, leaving Texas as one of the few states where these lifesaving tools remain illegal; and WHEREAS public health experts, families affected by fentanyl-related tragedies, and medical professionals advocate for the decriminalization and widespread availability of fentanyl test strips to reduce overdose deaths; and WHEREAS other states have successfully implemented the distribution of test strips through community health centers, convenience stores, and vending machines, sometimes for free, demonstrating their feasibility and efficacy in harm reduction efforts; and WHEREAS legal barriers to accessing fentanyl test strips hinder harm reduction organizations from receiving funding and distributing these essential tools to those in need; and WHEREAS the availability of fentanyl test strips allows individuals to make more informed decisions, potentially preventing drug use or modifying usage …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Recommendation Number 20240624-004: Public Safety at Austin Pride Parade and Pride Events WHEREAS the City of Austin has formally recognized Pride month with an official proclamation “reaffirming the City’s commitment to inclusivity, equity, and allyship”; and WHEREAS Pride month and surrounding celebrations have been prominent to Austin’s culture since its first Pride week in 1982; and WHEREAS members of the LGBTQIA+ community continue to be targets of hate incidents, violent threats, and extremist legislation; and WHEREAS Pride events in Austin have been canceled this year due to bomb and death threats, such as the cancellation of the "Legendary Drag Brunch and Market" due to a bomb threat; and WHEREAS Texas has seen a significant increase in reported anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes, with Austin experiencing a rise from 12 incidents in 2019 to 51 in 2023; and WHEREAS these threats limit Austin’s ability to be the most livable city in the country. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City of Austin’s Human Rights Commission that the Austin City Council calls upon relevant public safety departments to implement additional safety measures for the August 2024 Pride Parade and subsequent events. These measures should include, but not be limited to: ● Adequate street closures for the Austin Pride Parade to eliminate vehicle traffic in the immediate area; ● Deployment of both uniformed and plainclothes officers in surrounding areas; ● Briefing local FBI authorities on recent bomb threats and other hate crimes related to the LGBTQIA+ community to monitor and address any active threats. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Austin City Council utilizes the resources of the We All Belong campaign to increase public awareness of the purpose and significance of Pride and all related events, including the August Pride Parade. Date of Approval: June 24, 2024 Record of the vote: The recommendation was approved on Commissioner Davis’ motion, Commissioner Aslam’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Krueger was absent. Attest: _____________________________________________ Eric Anderson, Staff Liaison, Office of the City Clerk
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MONDAY JUNE 24, 2024 The Human Rights Commission convened in a regular meeting on June 24, 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 Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Jeffrey Clemmons Morgan Davis Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Meebs Aslam Danielle Bryant Harriet Kirsh Pozen Srini Raghavan Michael Stevenson Alicia Weigel Commissioners Absent: Mariana Krueger PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Approve the minutes of the Human Rights Commission Special Called Meeting on May 20, 2024. The minutes from the meeting of May 20, 2024, were approved on Commissioner Clemmons’ motion, Commissioner Kirsh Pozen’s second on an 8-0 vote. Commissioners Davis and Weigel were off the dais. Commissioner Krueger was absent. 1. 1 DISCUSSION ITEM Discussion of the State of Texas' Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Ban (Senate Bill 17). Discussed. 2. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS Approve a recommendation to Council to address the rise in drug overdoses in the City of Austin, promote the legalization of fentanyl testing strips, and promote harm reduction efforts. The motion to approve the recommendation to address the rise in drug overdoses in the City of Austin, promote the legalization of fentanyl testing strips, and promote harm reduction efforts was approved on Commissioner Clemmons’ motion, Vice Chair Zeidan’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Krueger was absent. Approve a recommendation to Council on public safety at Austin Pride Parade and Pride Events. The motion to approve the recommendation on public safety at Austin Pride Parade and Pride Events with the following friendly amendment was approved on Commissioner Davis’ motion, Commissioner Aslam’s second on a 10-0 vote. Commissioner Krueger was absent. The friendly amendment from Chair Duhon was to remove the fourth Whereas clause. This was accepted by the maker of the motion, Commissioner Davis. COMMITTEE UPDATES FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 5. Update from the Joint Inclusion Committee on the Commission on Veterans Affairs joining the Joint Inclusion Committee and the City of Austin Poet Laureate Program. Commissioner Davis provided an update. Commissioners Aslam and Clemmons requested a staff briefing on the status of the homeless services audit. Chair Duhon and Commission Davis requested an item to approve and discuss the Human Rights Commission Annual Internal Review and Report. ADJOURNMENT Chair Duhon adjourned the meeting at 6:31 p.m. without objection. 3. 4. …
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING of the HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Monday, May 20, 2024, 6:00 p.m. PERMITTING AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, ROOM 1406 6310 WILHELMINA DELCO DR. 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, contact Eric Anderson at eric.anderson@austintexas.gov or (512) 974-2562. CURRENT COMMISSIONERS: Kolby Duhon, Chair (He/They) Gabriella Zeidan, Vice Chair Alicia Weigel (She/They) Michael Stevenson Muneeb ‘Meebs’ Aslam (He/Him) Morgan Davis (He/Him) Mariana Krueger (She/Her) Jeffrey Clemmons Srini Raghavan Harriett Kirsh Pozen Danielle Bryant CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL AGENDA 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 meeting on April 22, 2024. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. 3. 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. 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 protesters, faculty, and media. 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 Eric Anderson, Office of (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov for additional information; TTY users route through Relay Texas at 711. For more information on the Human Rights Commission, please contact Eric Anderson at (512) 974-2562 or eric.anderson@austintexas.gov. the City Clerk at
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: (YYYYMMDD-XXX) (XXX is the agenda item number): Defending Free Speech and Peaceful Protest: A Call to Protect Student Rights WHEREAS, the Human Rights commission believes that free speech and peaceful protests are essential tools and rights in the struggle for a better world and the fight for justice and equality. We are deeply concerned about the recent use of multiple law enforcement agencies to suppress student protests at the University of Texas at Austin. The reports of heavy-handed tactics by law enforcement agencies are supported by videos and eyewitness accounts. The evidence depicts scenes of students being manhandled, pepper-sprayed, and arrested for exercising their constitutional right to assemble and voice their grievances. WHEREAS, student protests have played an important role in our nation's history, advancing civil rights and opposing immoral wars. We believe the right to peaceful protest and free speech are fundamental pillars of a free society, and that it is crucial to defend these rights against all who seek to suppress them. From the pivotal lunch counter sit-ins that challenged segregation to the mass mobilizations against the Vietnam War, student activism has long been a driving force for positive change, holding institutions accountable and giving voice to the marginalized. WHEREAS, the use of law enforcement agencies to silence dissenting voices is an affront to these principles, representing a concerning escalation of tactics that undermines the very fabric of our democratic freedoms, we cannot stand idly by, as overzealous law enforcement curtails the rights of our city's youth. As King wrote, “Never again is now”. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission recommends to the Austin City Council to engage the University of Texas administration to immediately cease the use of police force to suppress student protests, and to work with student activists to find peaceful and constructive solutions to the issues that are being raised, protecting freedom of speech while ensuring safety for all. Open dialogue, facilitated by independent mediators, if necessary, must replace confrontation. AND FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission calls on the Austin City Council to investigate the use of force and arrests of student protesters, faculty, and media. A thorough and transparent investigation would be a sign that those attempting to unlawfully silence the voices of those that are solely seeking the right to assemble peacefully will be held accountable. The right to …
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. 4. 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 …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommenda;on Number: (20240520-01): Condemning the Impact of Senate Bill 17 on Higher Educa:on and Advoca:ng for Inclusive Educa:onal Prac:ces WHEREAS, the Human Rights Commission of the City of Aus;n acknowledges the cri;cal role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) ini;a;ves in fostering a welcoming and suppor;ve environment for all students and staff members at public universi;es; and WHEREAS, Senate Bill 17 (SB 17), which mandates the closure of DEI offices and prohibits DEI programs and trainings at Texas public universi;es, has had a profound nega;ve impact on the University of Texas at Aus;n (UT Aus;n) and other public ins;tu;ons within the city; and WHEREAS, the closure of DEI offices has resulted in the dissolu;on of programs such as the Mul;cultural Engagement Center, the Gender and Sexuality Center, and Monarch, which provided essen;al support to marginalized student groups and undocumented students; and WHEREAS, UT Aus;n and other universi;es have been forced to lay off dozens of staff members, many of whom were previously dedicated to DEI-related work, thereby reducing the support available to students from diverse backgrounds; and WHEREAS, the implementa;on of SB 17 has led to significant disrup;ons in the academic and social experiences of students, causing a sense of loss and aliena;on, as expressed by students at public protests; and WHEREAS, the Commission recognizes the detrimental impact of SB 17 on the mental and emo;onal wellbeing of students and staff members, as well as on the academic reputa;on and compe;;veness of UT Aus;n and other public universi;es; and WHEREAS, Governor Greg AbboZ has announced plans to implement further compliance measures to ensure the complete ban on DEI prac;ces, which threatens to exacerbate the nega;ve effects on higher educa;on within the city; and WHEREAS, the Commission believes that educa;onal ins;tu;ons serve as key anchors for the wellbeing and progress of the city and that aZacks on higher educa;on undermine the social and economic fabric of Aus;n; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. The Commission strongly condemns the adverse effects of Senate Bill 17 on the wellbeing of students and staff members at UT Aus;n and other public universi;es within the city. The Commission calls upon the administra;on of UT Aus;n and other affected ins;tu;ons to seek all possible avenues to mi;gate the nega;ve impacts of SB 17 on their campuses, including …
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: 20240520-002: Condemning the Impact of Senate Bill 17 on Higher Education and Advocating for Inclusive Educational Practices WHEREAS, the Human Rights Commission of the City of Austin acknowledges the critical role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all students and staff members at public universities; and WHEREAS, Senate Bill 17 (SB 17), which mandates the closure of DEI offices and prohibits DEI programs and trainings at Texas public universities, has had a profound negative impact on the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) and other public institutions within the city; and WHEREAS, the closure of DEI offices has resulted in the dissolution of programs such as the Multicultural Engagement Center, the Gender and Sexuality Center, and Monarch, which provided essential support to marginalized student groups and undocumented students; and WHEREAS, UT Austin and other universities have been forced to lay off dozens of staff members, many of whom were previously dedicated to DEI-related work, thereby reducing the support available to students from diverse backgrounds; and WHEREAS, the implementation of SB 17 has led to significant disruptions in the academic and social experiences of students, causing a sense of loss and alienation, as expressed by students at public protests; and WHEREAS, the Commission recognizes the detrimental impact of SB 17 on the mental and emotional wellbeing of students and staff members, as well as on the academic reputation and competitiveness of UT Austin and other public universities; and WHEREAS, Governor Greg Abbott has announced plans to implement further compliance measures to ensure the complete ban on DEI practices, which threatens to exacerbate the negative effects on higher education within the city; and 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. WHEREAS, the Commission believes that educational institutions serve as key anchors for the wellbeing and progress of the city and that attacks on higher education undermine the social and economic fabric of Austin; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN: The Commission strongly condemns the adverse effects of Senate Bill 17 on the wellbeing of students and staff members at UT Austin and other public universities within the city. The Commission calls upon the administration of UT Austin and other affected institutions to seek all possible avenues to mitigate the negative impacts of SB 17 on their campuses, …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Human Rights Commission Recommendation Number: 20240520-003 Defending Free Speech and Peaceful Protest: A Call to Protect Student Rights WHEREAS, the Human Rights commission believes that free speech and peaceful protests are essential tools and rights in the struggle for a better world and the fight for justice and equality. We are deeply concerned about the recent use of multiple law enforcement agencies to suppress student protests at the University of Texas at Austin. The reports of heavy-handed tactics by law enforcement agencies are supported by videos and eyewitness accounts. The evidence depicts scenes of students being manhandled, pepper-sprayed, and arrested for exercising their constitutional right to assemble and voice their grievances. WHEREAS, student protests have played an important role in our nation's history, advancing civil rights and opposing immoral wars. We believe the right to peaceful protest and free speech are fundamental pillars of a free society, and that it is crucial to defend these rights against all who seek to suppress them. From the pivotal lunch counter sit-ins that challenged segregation to the mass mobilizations against the Vietnam War, student activism has long been a driving force for positive change, holding institutions accountable and giving voice to the marginalized. WHEREAS, the use of law enforcement agencies to silence dissenting voices is an affront to these principles, representing a concerning escalation of tactics that undermines the very fabric of our democratic freedoms, we cannot stand idly by, as overzealous law enforcement curtails the rights of our city's youth. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Human Rights Commission recommends to the Austin City Council to engage the University of Texas administration to immediately cease the use of police force to suppress student protests, and to work with student activists to find peaceful and constructive solutions to the issues that are being raised, protecting freedom of speech while ensuring safety for all. Open dialogue, facilitated by independent mediators, if necessary, must replace confrontation. AND FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission recommends to the Austin City Council to engage to make a call for Council to assess APD’s mutual aid agreements with other public safety agencies and provide direc�on to the city manager to ensure that APD officers refrain from any ac�vi�es that suppress legal speech or protests. AND FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Human Rights Commission calls on the Austin City Council to investigate the recent use of force …
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 …
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.
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 …
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 …
