HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014.02.25 PacketMINUTES
OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE
HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION
January 28, 2014
7:00 P.M.
I. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Bigbee called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
II. ROLL CALL
Answering roll call were Commissioners Arsenault, Bigbee, Cashmore, Davis, Haeg, Harrington,
Lagerstrom, Seidman, Stanton, Winnick. Staff present: Scott Neal, City Manager; MJ Lamon, Staff
Liaison and Annie Johnson, City Management Fellow.
Commissioner Kingston arrived to the meeting at 7:02pm.
VI. SPECIAL GUEST: Ric Dressen, Superintendent, Edina Public Schools.
Chair Bigbee introduced Superintendent Dressen to the Commission. The Superintendent handed
out the District's Mission and Core Values to each Commissioner and reported that the schools are
taking steps to meet and improve the goals of the District and help students be successful. A
majority of jobs that current students will hold in the future have not been invented yet. The
Superintendent highlighted the necessity for partnerships with the whole community due to socio-
economic status, opportunity, and access gaps in education. Chair Bigbee currently serves on the
District's Equity Committee. Superintendent Dressen provided an overview of demographic
statistics for the District.
A Commissioner raised a concern that German Language courses were stopped at the Middle School
level. The Superintendent reported this was due to low enrollment, but there is an opportunity to
have multiple languages taught in an on-line format. The fastest growing language course
enrollment is for Mandarin Chinese. Online courses are not currently offered to the public, but that
is something the Superintendent is open to looking into.
Superintendent Dressen was asked to provide information about the South View Middle School
defacement. He reported that the District worked with law enforcement and determined that it was
not a racial act based on the investigation, although the behavior was inappropriate. There has been
a significant amount of consequence and learning for the students involved. The building has been
cleaned and the behavior of the student offenders continues to be monitored. Some
Commissioners raised concerns that the District had not been made aware of the Bias/Hate Crime
Response Plan and that by not determining the act to be a Hate Crime, the School District, Police
Department, and City "covered up" the incident on behalf of the student offenders. There is a legal
definition of Hate Crime defined in State Stature. There was no communication from the School
District to the general public about the incident. The Superintendent indicated that due to
expanded partnerships, situations such as this may be handled differently in the future.
The District has a Safe Schools policy in place and they will be monitoring current legislation.
Bullying is the most challenging in the middle school years. There is anti -bullying training starting in
kindergarten for students.
Chair Bigbee thanked the Superintendent for attending and called for an expanded partnership in
the future.
III. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission Agenda
Page 2
Motion was made by Commissioner Stanton to approve the meeting agenda of the January 28,
2014 meeting as presented. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Arseneault.
Motion carried.
IV. ADOPTION OF MEETING MINUTES
Motion was made by Commissioner Davis to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of
November 26, 2013; the motion was seconded by Commissioner Winnick.
Motion carried. Commissioners Kingston and Stanton abstained.
V. COMMUNITY COMMENT
Jean Sylvestre, 7520 Cahill Road Apt 116A, Edina MN 55439, spoke about his involvement in
WWII, his friendship with Tom Oye, and his history with the Commission as the original
consultant that assisted with the formation of the HRRC. Mr. Sylvestre commended the
Commission on their work. Commissioners will follow up about involving him in the Days of
Remembrance celebration and Tom Oye Award.
VI. REPORTS/RECOMMENDATIONS
A. 2014 Chair and Vice Chair Nominations
Commissioner Winnick reported that he reached out to members of the Commission
and recommended that Commission Seidman serve as Chair; Commissioner Cashmore
serve as Vice Chair; and that Commissioner Arseneault serve as 2nd Vice Chair pending a
bylaw change subject to approval by the City Council. The election of officers will take
place at the February HRRC Meeting. Commissioner Cashmore rescinded his interest in
serving as a Vice Chair.
Commissioner Winnick moved the slate of candidates; seconded by Commissioner
Kingston. Motion carried.
B. Review 2013 Accomplishments
Chair Bigbee reported that 2013 accomplishments were highlighted during the
November televised meeting and captured in the minutes of that meeting.
C. Review 2014 Schedule
The City reviews the calendar in advance of publishing to ensure dates of official
meetings do not conflict with religious holidays. Commissioners discussed that HRRC
meetings in August, November and December tend to fall into holidays and are usually
very inconvenient or end up being cancelled. There is usually lower attendance in the
summer months. April is a month with multiple additional HRRC events.
Chair Bigbee moved to change the April regular meeting to April 29th, cancel the
December meeting, and move the November televised meeting to a date to be
determined after November 27th; seconded by Commissioner Davis. Motion carried.
D. Review 2014 Work Plan and Assign a Leader for Each Initiative
Chair Bigbee indicated that each initiative on the 2014 Work Plan needed to have a
Commissioner assigned. The following Commissioners volunteered to serve:
• Anti -Bullying Initiative: Commissioner Lagerstrom
• Community Outreach Initiative: Commissioners Bigbee and Davis
• Special Needs Awareness Campaign: Commissioners Davis and Arseneault
• Days of Remembrance Commissioners Seidman, Cashmore, and Winnick
Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission Agenda
Page 3
• Bias/Hate Crimes Response Plan: Commissioners Winnick and Cashmore
• Tom Oye Award: Commissioner Winnick
Chair Bigbee invited Commissioners departing the HRRC to continue their involvement
on the initiatives as members of the public. Commissioners discussed partnering with
the Edina Arts Board to have a Special Needs Awareness film featured at the Edina Film
Festival. Plans for the three 2014 Days of Remembrance events are in motion.
Residents have been reaching out to staff to get involved.
Commissioner Winnick moved to remove Immigration Reform from the 2014 Work Plan;
seconded by Commissioner Davis. The Commission discussed the relevance of keeping
this item on the work plan. Commissioner Cashmore called the question; motion
carried.
Commissioners discussed adding a new 2014 initiative to the Work Plan involving
relations between the HRRC and Edina School District. This will be added to the next
meeting agenda.
Commissioners raised questions regarding access to the City's Enterprise Facilities,
specifically Edinborough Park for families and children that cannot afford the entrance
fee, when there are no other parks in the area. Manager Neal reported that the City
Council had directed staff to stop the annual facility loss of $400,000; last year the
facility broke even. Similar issues exist at the pool, golf course, etc. Patron numbers are
increasing. Residents at Edinborough pay fees to support the facility. Commissioners
asked Manager Neal to find out how the facility tracks usage and disperses scholarships.
E. Gender Stereotypes
Letters were sent by Edina High School students in English 10; Commission would be
open to recommendations for action. Commissioners discussed taking up Women in
Leadership on a future year's work plan.
Graffiti Incident Update
Chair Bigbee referenced the reports included in the packet. Visits were made by HRRC
Commissioners to leadership from different City departments. There had been past
incidents of bias/hate crimes that had not been processed according to the Bias/Hate
Crime Response Plan. Concerns were raised that the City does not properly handle
incidents of bias/hate crime. Commissioner Winnick reported that the recommendation
is to have all City departments adopt the approach currently used by the Parks and
Recreation Department and provide annual compiled reports about instances of
bias/hate crimes to the City Manager, HRRC and City Council.
Commissioners discussed the relevance of the Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan and how
to move forward. The Commission expressed dissatisfaction with how the Southview
Middle School Graffiti Incident was handled. Additional concerns were raised about the
role of the Police Department and Administration Department in determining the
"victim" of a crime and the implications of not determining the community as a victim.
Commissioners discussed modifying the recommendation for the Police Department.
Commissioners noted that Police Chief Long resigned since the initial department visit,
and that there will be an opportunity to work with the new Chief. In addition,
Commissioners discussed the need to do additional training or engagement of Police
Officers to ensure they are aware of the plan and the role of the HRRC, and implement
the Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan correctly.
Edina Human Rights & Relations Commission Agenda
Page 4
Commissioner Kingston moved to review the recommendations specifically related to
the Police Department and bring back for HRRC consideration at the February meeting;
motion was seconded by Commissioner Winnick. Motion carried. Commissioner
Cashmore abstained.
VII. CORRESPONDENCE AND PETITIONS
Included in the packet.
VIII. CHAIR AND COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS
Commissioner Seidman clarified that the Tom Oye Award nominations would be coming to
the Commission in February and that a decision would be made in March. Commissioner
Winnick reported that applications are open until January 31, 2014 and that 4 applications
had been received. Information was sent to every social service agency in South Hennepin
County.
Commissioner Lagerstrom reported that the Anti -Bullying event was planned for February
8th at 10:30am at the Edina Senior Center.
Chair Bigbee responded to questions about a recent Sun Current letter to the editor
included in the packet penned by 4 HRRC Commissioners. There was a letter of response
sent to the City which is why the Commission was notified. The original Commissioners have
since responded. Chair Bigbee will share a copy of the response letter with the Commission.
Commissioners raised concerns that the letter appeared to represent the views of the HRRC
as a whole, not the individual writers, because of how the paper printed the signatory line.
IX. ADJOURNMENT
Chair Bigbee declared the meeting adjourned at 9:32 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Minutes approved by HRRC February 25, 2014
Annie Coyle, HRRC Staff Liaison
Arnie Bigbee, HRRC Chair
To: HRRC
From: Annie Coyle
Staff Liaison
Date: February 25, 2014
Subject: Approval of Meeting Agenda
Agenda Item #: III.
Action
Discussion ❑
Information ❑
Action Requested:
Approve the meeting agenda for the February 25th, 2014 regular meeting of the Human
Rights and Relations Commission.
Information / Background:
Attachment:
Meeting Agenda; 2014 Schedule
City of Edina 4801 W. 50t� St. Edina, MN 55424
AGENDA
CITY OF EDINA, MINNESOTA
HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION
EDINA CITY HALL COMMUNITY ROOM
FEBRUARY 25, 2014
7:00 P.M.
CALL TO ORDER (7:00)
II. ROLL CALL
III. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA
IV. APPROVAL OF January 28, 2014 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
V. COMMUNITY COMMENT
During "Community Comment" the Human Rights & Relations Commission will invite residents to
share relevant issues or concerns. Individuals must limit their comments to three minutes. The Chair
may limit the number of speakers on the same issue in the interest of time and topic Generally
speaking, items that are elsewhere on tonight's agenda may not be addressed during Community
Comment Individuals should not expect the Chair or Commission Members to respond to their
comments tonight Instead, the Commission might refer the matter to staff for consideration at a future
meeting.
VI. Special Guest: Kristin Aarsvold, Parks and Rec Department re: Edina Enterprise Facilities (7:05)
VII. REPORTS/RECOMMENDATIONS
A. Anti -bullying Event and Education — Edina Reads (Lagerstrom) (7:20)
B. Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan/Graffiti Incident update (Winnick/Cashmore) (7:25)
C. Conflict -Free Materials (Cashmore) (7:40)
D. Tom Oye Award (Winnick) — VOTE TO OCCUR AT MEETING(7:50)
E. General Work Plan Updates
i. Monitoring Domestic Partner Legislation and the City Ordinance
(Stanton/Arseneault) (8:15)
ii. Community Outreach Working Group (Davis/Bigbee) (8:20)
iii. Days of Remembrance (Seidman) (8:30)
iv. Consider Black History Month 2015 (Bigbee) (8:40)
F. Updates to the HRRC Resource File
VIII. CORRESPONDENCE AND PETITIONS (8:45)
IX. CHAIR AND COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS
X. STAFF COMMENTS
XI. ELECT 2014 CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR (8:50)
XII. THANK YOU FOR DEPARTING MEMBERS (8:55)
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
The City of Edina wants all residents to be comfortable being part of the public process. If you need assistance in the
way of hearing amplification, an interpreter, large -print documents or something else, please call 952-927-8861 at
least 72 hours in advance of the meeting.
HUMAN RIGHTS &
� RELATIONS COMMISSION
2014 Meetings and Events
Day
Date
Event
Time
Location
Tues
Jan -28
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Sat
Feb -8
Edina Reads
10:30 a.m.
Fireside Room (Senior
Center)
Tues
Feb -25
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Thurs
Mar -13
South View's 4th Annual Taste of
South View
6:30 p.m.
South View Middle School
Mon
Mar -17
Boards and Commission Recognition
Event
5:00 p.m.
Hughes Pavillion
(Centennial Lakes)
Tues
Mar -25
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Tues
April -8
Days of Remembrance: Play
7:00 p.m.
Fireside Room (SeniorCenter)
Thurs
April -10
Genocide Awareness:
Rwanda/Congo
7:00 p.m.
City Hall
Sun
April -13
Holocaust Remembrance
(Yom HaShoah)
2:00 p.m.
City Hall
Tues
April -29
Volunteer Recognition Reception and
HRRC Meeting
5:00 p.m.
Braemar Clubhouse
T+es
A
meetiER9
7iA�
Tues
May -20
Council Work Session
5:30pm
Council Chambers
Tues
May -27
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Tues
June -24
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Tues
July -22
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Tues
Aug -26
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Tues
Sept -23
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Tues I
Oct -28
Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Community Room
Twes
NAw M
Televised n4p„+,,5
74XH9-. ..,
Council Ch-.mb prr,
Thurs
Dec 11
Televised Meeting
7:00 p.m.
Council Chambers
des
iia
�1A eeg
SAA-q-r�
To: HRRC
From: Annie Coyle
Staff Liaison
Date: February 25, 2014
Subject: Adoption of Meeting Minutes
Agenda Item #: IV.
Action
Discussion ❑
Information ❑
Action Requested:
Approve the minutes for the January 28, 2014 meeting of the Human Rights and Relations
Commission.
Information / Background:
Attachment:
Draft meeting minutes from the January 28, 2014 HRRC meeting; Attendance Roster
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424 4
Liaisons: Report attendance monthly and attach this report to the Commission minutes for the packet.
Do not enter numbers into the last two columns. Meeting numbers & attendance percentages will calculate automatically.
INSTRUCTIONS: Counted as Meeting Held (ON MEETINGS' LINE) Attendance Recorded (ON MEMBER'S LINE)
Regular Meeting w/Quorum
Type "1" under the month on the meetings' line.
Type "l under the month for each attending member.
HUMAN RIGHTS & RELATIONS COMMISSION
Type "1" under the month on the meetings' line.
NAME
TERM
J
F M A M J I J A S O N D Work Session Work Session # of Mtgs.
Attendance %
Meetings/Work Sessions
::
1
1
Type "1" under the month for ALL members.
Arseneault, Patrice
2/1/20151
1
1 1
100%
Bigbee, Arnie
2/1/2015
1
1
100%
Cashmore, John
2/1/2016
1
1
100%
Davis, Laura
2/1/2015
1
1:
100%
Kingston, Jessi
2/1/2014
1
1
100%
Lagerstrom, Leslie
2/1/2014
1
1
100%
Seidman, Jan
2/1/2016
1
1
100%
Stanton, Russ
2/1/2014
1
1
100%
Winnick, Steve
2/1/2016
1
1
100%
Haeg, Molly
student
1
1
100%
Harrington, Paige
student I
1
1
100%
Liaisons: Report attendance monthly and attach this report to the Commission minutes for the packet.
Do not enter numbers into the last two columns. Meeting numbers & attendance percentages will calculate automatically.
INSTRUCTIONS: Counted as Meeting Held (ON MEETINGS' LINE) Attendance Recorded (ON MEMBER'S LINE)
Regular Meeting w/Quorum
Type "1" under the month on the meetings' line.
Type "l under the month for each attending member.
Regular Meeting w/o Quorum
Type "1" under the month on the meetings' line.
Type "l under the month for each attending member.
Joint Work Session
Type "1" under "Work Session" on the meetings' line.
Type "l under "Work Session" for each attending member.
Rescheduled Meeting*
Type "l " under the month on the meetings' line.
Type "1" under the month for each attending member.
Cancelled Meeting
Type "l " under the month on the meetings' line.
Type "1" under the month for ALL members.
Special Meeting
There is no number typed on the meetings' line.
There is no number typed on the members' lines.
*A rescheduled meeting occurs when members are notified of a new meeting date/time at a prior meeting. If shorter notice is
given, the previously -scheduled meeting is considered to have been cancelled and replaced with a special meeting.
To: HRRC Agenda Item M VI
From: Annie Coyle Action ❑
Staff Liaison Discussion ❑
Date: February 25, 2014 Information
Subject: Special Guest: Kristin Aarsvold, Parks and Recreation Department
Action Requested:
None.
Information / Background:
Kristin Aarsvold will give a short update on Edina Parks Enterprise Facilities, including access, scholarship
opportunities, and family/youth engagement.
Attachment:
None.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 501h St. Edina, MN 55424 10
O e
may°
CORPORA
1888
To: Human Rights and Relations Committee Agenda Item #:
From: Kristin Aarsvold, Recreation Supervisor Action ❑
Discussion ❑
Date: February 25, 2014 Information
Subject: Financial support for individuals and families
Action Requested:
Information / Background: The Edina Parks & Recreation Department is committed to ensuring
access to all recreation programs and services. For individuals and families who cannot afford
programs and/or services we offer a grant-in-aid program. The grant-in-aid program is funded by the
the Edina Community Foundation.
• On average 52 families received grants in the past four years
• $4,400 in grants were distributed in 2010; in 2013 the total amount was roughly $6,000
• Almost $2,000* in funding supports youth in the Playground Program and Travelin Teens
Program.
• $3,500 in pool pass support was given to families in 2013
*In 2005, the Edina Parks & Recreation Department began discussions with school personnel at
Cornelia Elementary School regarding barriers to summer program participation for students living in
the southeast area of Edina. Barriers included financial constraints, lack of transportation and
cultural barriers. The Van Valkenburg Children's Fund has removed the financial barrier. In 2011,
the Edina Crime Prevention became the permanent funder of transportation costs. By making
program sign up easy for families at school, cultural barriers have been removed. English Language
Learner teachers provide registration assistance at conference time and collect forms. New this
year: a parent/family summer resource meeting will be held at the school attended by Edina Parks
and Recreation Staff, in addition Playground Leader supervision will bridge the gap between summer
school in the a.m. to the playground program in the p.m. for two weeks
• Past Program Highlights: Free Red Cross Babysitting Course; Red Cross Safety Mobile park
aisits; Summer Reading Club coordination and weekly visits to the Cornelia School Media
Center; Leader in Training volunteer program, one participant was hired as a Playground
Leader in 2013.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
REPORT / RECOMMENDATION
We also work with the ELL teachers at Creek Valley on funding students in summer programs.
Also, the Edina Challenge is working on making access to youth programs easier for families. The
Edina Challenge is a collaboration of community organizations and grant -makers seeking to maximize
collective effectiveness in enabling participation of youth in poverty in the community, educational,
and recreational programs that lead to success in adult life. One of the initiatives is the "Ready -Set -
Connect" card. The goal is to create a single point of entry for services which will, in turn, ensure
dignity of access. Participants will be identified through the free and reduce lunch program which is
administered by Sodexho, a card will be issued to verify a family's need for financial support. This
card can then be used to access scholarships/grants in Edina youth programs (school, city, YMCA,
Youth Athletic Associations).
Page 2
Total Dollar Amount of Grants Given
Grant -in -Aid Comparisons
1 2011
1 2012
1 2013
2010-2013
1 $4,398.75
1 $5,042.45
1 $5,478.24
1 $5,964.50
Individual pool pass
na
Families Applying for Grant -in -Aid
2010 2011
2012
2013
hrough Parks & Recreation
22 24
24
34
Through ESL
25 25
31
23
Total
47 49
55
57
Total Dollar Amount of Grants Given
2010
1 2011
1 2012
1 2013
Amount
1 $4,398.75
1 $5,042.45
1 $5,478.24
1 $5,964.50
Aquatic Center
2010
2011'c. `
2012 ,
2013
Total Amount Given
$2,395.75
$2,957.45
$2,955.24
$3,457.50
Individual pool pass
na
1
na
na
2 people pool passes
3
2
2
5
3 people pool passes
8
11
13
11
4 people pool passes
5
7
5
7
5 people pool passes
1
na
1
2
Total Pool Passes
17
21
21
25
Edinborough Play Park Pass
2010
2011
2012
;2013
Total Amount Given
$235.00
$235.00
na
$85.00
Individual Pass
1
1
na
1
2 person pass
na
2
na
na
3 person pass
1
na
na
na
— tal Passes
4
3
na
1
Small Wonders Program 2010 2011 2012 2013
Total Amount Given $67.00 na na na
Total Participants 1 na na na
Minihawks/Skyhawks •`
2010
2011:,
2012. 2013
Total Amount Given
$99.00
$99.00
na $150.00
Total Participants
1
1
na 2
Travelin'Teens Program `
2010
2011
2012 `
2013 `
Total Amount Given
$552.00
$736.00
$1,210.00
$900.00
Total Participants
6
8
14
12
Playground Program
2010 2011
2012
''2013'"
Total Amount Given
$1,050.00 $1,015.00
$1,152.00
$1,008.00
Total Participants
30 29
30
28
Playground Extra'Program 2010 2011 2012 2013
Total Amount Given na na $54.00 na
Total Participants na na 6 na
Fab"' dnd 5 Program 2010 2011 2012 2013
il Amount Given na na $47.00 na
.—.al Participants na na 1 1 na
Grant -in -Aid Comparisons
2010-2013
Ice Skating Lessons 2010 2011 2012 2013
Total Amount Given na na $60.00 $200.00
Total Participants na na 1 2
"Community Garden Plot
2010
2011
2012
2013
Total Amount Given
na
na
na
$50.00
Total Plots
na
na
na
2
Edible Playground Camp
2010
2011.
2012
2013
Total Amount Given
na
na
na
$60.00
Total Plots
na
na
na
1
Kid N Play Camp 2010
2011
2012
2013
Total Amount Given na
na
na
$54.00
Total Plots na
na
na
1
To: HRRC
From: Annie Coyle
Staff Liaison
Date: February 25, 2014
Subject: Anti -bullying Event and Education - Edina Reads
Action Requested:
None.
Agenda Item M VILA.
Action ❑
Discussion ❑
Information
Information / Background:
Commissioner Lagerstrom will provide an update on the 2014 event that took place on Saturday February
8th at the Edina Senior Center.
Attachment:
2014 Event Summary.
City of Edina 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424
2014 HRRC Anti -Bullying Event
Nancy Carlson — Henry and The Bully
February 8, 2014
Teaming with the Friends of the Edina Library, Edina Reads and the Children's Librarian —
Tracy Hvezda-Hehtola, the HRRC hosted approximately 30 children — 60 people total
with parents, grandparents and caregivers in attendance for this year's anti -bullying
event. Nancy Carlson read from several of her children's books and led the kids in a
discussion about being kind, what to do if you are bullied, and the importance of
standing up for other students (not just being a bystander but strive to be an
upstander). She concluded her presentation by teaching the kids how to draw some of
her characters. Edina Friends of the Library provided refreshments for the audience
upon the completion of the event.
Children in attendance were ages 2 — 9 (grades PK — 3) and represented the following
schools:
Berry Patch
Breck
Calvin Christian
Concord
Highlands
Lake Harriet
Normandale
Susan Lindgren Elementary, St. Louis Park
Wooddale PK
We gave each family a copy of Nancy's book, "Henry and the Bully," distributing a total
of 25 books. Fifty books remain, which we should discuss distribution of at the February
meeting.
Recommendation for next year:
While the event was publicized via the Edina Sun, the Star Tribune, the Edina Website, a
press release from the City, and within the newsletter, Edina in the Know, the main
marketing channel (posters in schools and information in school e -newsletters and
backpacks) was not able to be fully utilized because approval was not obtained at the
district level. I did not anticipate this issue given the fact the event was co-sponsored by
Edina Reads, and Nancy Carlson is a frequent speaker within classrooms throughout our
city. My recommendation for next year would be to include representatives from the
school district early in the planning process to ensure the gatekeepers at the schools are
willing and able to help us publicize our event.
A HUGE thank -you to Commissioners Arseneault, Bigbee, Davis, Seidman and Winnick
and City Staff Annie Coyle and MJ Lamon for being at the event! Your presence was
appreciated!
12
To: HRRC
From: Annie Coyle
Staff Liaison
Date: February 25, 2014
Subject: Bias/Hate Crime Response Plan/Graffiti Incident update
Action Requested:
Approve the draft recommendations.
Agenda Item #: VII.B.
Action
Discussion ❑
Information ❑
Information / Background:
Commissioner Winnick will provide an update on the recommendations discussed at the January meeting
and proposed changes to the recommendations for the Police Department.
Attachment:
None.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424 13
To: HRRC
From: Annie Coyle
Staff Liaison
Date: February 25, 2014
Subject: Conflict -Free Materials
Action Requested:
None.
A,
o�
Agenda Item #: VII.C.
Information / Background:
Commissioner Cashmore will provide an update on Conflict -Free Materials.
Attachment:
None.
Action ❑
Discussion ❑
Information
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424 14
To: HRRC
From: Annie Coyle
Staff Liaison
Date: February 25, 2014
Subject: Tom Oye Award
Action Requested:
Select 2014 Tom Oye Award Recipient
Agenda Item #: V11 -D.
Action
Discussion ❑
Information ❑
Information / Background:
Five individuals have been nominated for the 2014 Tom Oye Award. Please review each application and
come prepared to vote on the 2014 award recipient.
The 2014 Nominees include:
Andrea Knoll
Gail Shore
Kristin Aarsvold & Tom McKenzie
Mamie Segall
Jessi Kingston
Attachment:
2014 Tom Oye Award applications.
City of Edina 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424 15
NOMINATION FORM
TOM OYE HUMAN RIGHTS AWARD
The Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission is seeking applications for its annual Tom Oye Human
Rights Award. This award will honor the late Tom Oye and other members of the Edina community whose
good works promote human relations and advance human rights.
Submit one nominee perform. PLEASE ATTACH AN ESSAY, UP TO 500 WORDS, AND OTHER
SUPPORTING INFORMATION AND INCLUDE YOUR NAME. Provide specific examples, including
attachments if necessary.
Selection Criteria
Anyone who lives or works in Edina is eligible for this award. Nominees will be evaluated based
on their efforts to:
(1) foster respect and dignity for others
(2) model courage and/or compassion in the advancement of human rights
(3) demonstrate leadership by example for improving human relations and/or advancing
human rights
Who are you nominating?
C c ,'Vlc a Vit". i ) et—
Who makes this nomination?
Name of Person or Group l aii' wr- U,J�t
Contact name, if different than above
Comments Regarding Nominee (up to 35 words)
`j ct 6 j
Words that will be printed inside the program if this nominee is selecte
�Iyir''GC ki zvli-� b'y Yiryy�..}p) 6/15jC 11C� c << l
EI� (I,YYI (yj L{L'c,O CC ';
Submit Information
� y��t �l.�r�E'GLG >`•S Gl !?!�� �') C��'� r`:v1r%�� 1'�1�,'��7 (h�-'�
Applications must be received by January 15, 2013. Applications will be reviewed by members of the
Human Rights and Relations Commission. The Commission may decline to make an award if in its view no
nominee meets the criteria. The award will be presented in the spring of 2013 at the annual Volunteer
Recognition Reception in the Warren C. Hyde Clubhouse at Braemar Golf Course.
Mail the completed nomination form to: City of Edina, Human Rights and Relations Commission, 4801 West
50th Street, Edina, MN 55424.
Questions? Contact Ari Klugman at (952) 826-0429 or aklugman@edinamn.gov.
Edina HRRC Award 2013
16
Nomination of Andrea Knoll for the Tom Oye Human Rights Award
My friend Andrea Knoll is one of the founders of Oasis for Youth, a drop-in center for homeless youth in
Bloomington, Richfield and Edina. She currently serves as Secretary and Volunteer Coordinator for
Oasis. Andrea meets the selection criteria for the Tom Oye Human Rights Award in many ways, but I am
nominating her for her work at Oasis.
In 2007, she was one of a group of seven women who began to have concerns about services for needy
suburban youth. What started as a concern, grew into research, then needs assessment and finally in
2010 the opening of Oasis for Youth. By 2012, Oasis had hired its first part-time case manager. They
are now seeking an Executive Director.
Andrea's work specifically fosters respect and dignity, by providing the most basic of resources: clean
clothes, food, help with finding a place to stay. Oasis sends a message to youth that they are worthy
and valued, that they matter, at times when their own families might be sending them a different
message. Oasis strives to meet the basic needs of youth within their own communities. By remaining
close to home, Oasis recognizes the value in maintaining school, family and friend relationships.
Homelessness is disruptive enough without having to navigate an unfamiliar city.
Reaching out to youth not much older than her own children, Andrea's compassion for the clients of
Oasis comes from her faith and also from a mom's perspective. At a summer fundraiser, she shared
stories of clients happy to have toothbrushes, happy to have a place to do laundry. As a mom who is
still reminding her own children to do these things, she is heartened at clients' appreciation of the
basics. Also as a mother, she recognizes that many of these young people are the victims of their
parents' troubles; they find themselves without a place to stay through no fault of their own.
Suburban homelessness may seem an oxymoron. For an Edina mom to call attention to problems in our
community that need to be addressed is a courageous undertaking. The needs of these youth were
more important than the reputations of the communities. The founders of Oasis were not afraid to ask
what was available, and not afraid to take it upon themselves to create a resource where one was
needed. At the most basic level, a group of citizens came together to provide a needed service.
I cannot tell you exactly what Andrea Knoll has contributed to the creation of Oasis for Youth. I know
she was there from the beginning, she attended hours of meetings, she has been steadfast in her
support of this endeavor. As her friend, she talks about Oasis for Youth as an inevitable end result,
almost as if it grew organically from the concerns of seven women. We all know that these things take
determination and hard work. That hard work is why I think she deserves the Tom Oye Human Rights
Award.
In lieu of an attachment, I would ask you to visit www.oasisfoiyquth.oj,,.
Andrea Knoll's community involvement includes service to the Edina Ed Fund, Vote Yes Edina, to
Concord, South View and Edina High Schools and support of local candidates who meet her criteria of
helping the poorest among us. I am sure this is not all, she is very humble.
17
Nomination Form
Tom Ove Human Rights Award
Nominees:
I am Nominating City of Edina Parks and Recreation Supervisor Kristen Aarsvold and Edina
Police Detective Tom McKenzie as co -nominees for the Tom Oye Human Rights Award
Edina City Hall: 4801 West 50th St. Edina MN 55424
Kristen Aarsvold Kaarsvold@EdinaMn.eov
Thomas McKenzie Tmckenzie@EdinaMn.gov
Nomination made by:
Chief Jeff Long
Police Chief; Edina Police Department
Edina Police Department
Jlong@EdinaMn.gov
952-826-1610
Nomination Statement:
Edina Parks and Recreation Supervisor Kristen Aarsvold and Edina Police Detective Tom
McKenzie have collaborated in making city programs and services available to many families
who have experienced cultural, language, transportation, and financial barriers. Their efforts
have modeled compassion, dignity, and respect for many families in the diverse Parklawn
Neighborhood of Edina.
18
Nomination Essay
Edina Parks and Recreation Supervisor Kristen Aarsvold and Edina Police Detective Tom McKenzie
teamed up in 2010 after recognizing barriers faced by Somali Diaspora as well as other lower income
families who have settled in this Edina neighborhood, known as Parklawn neighborhood, which is
located in the southeast quadrant of Edina along West 76`h St and Parklawn Avenue.
The duo had attended several Cornelia Elementary School Somali Parent Council meetings and learned
that families who had settled in Edina faced barriers to city services and programs due to their language
and cultural differences, as well their geographic location in Edina. They further explored this issue and
found that the children in this entire neighborhood also had limited access to programs and services,
and did not have a safe route to the local playground or school in the way of sidewalks or bike paths.
McKenzie, who understands law enforcement issues experienced by Somali immigrants, and Aarsvold
who is experienced in developing summer programs, pooled their talents and knowledge to assist
families in overcoming barriers.
Several unique programs that they brought to this neighborhood are:
Collaboration with the American Red Cross and the management of Edina Park apartments to host a
babysitting clinic for 11-15 year old Somali children in the building's community room. The Edina Crime
Prevention Fund provided scholarships for the clinic fee, and each of the Somali children received
certificates from me for successfully completing the clinic.
59 children were transported via school bus from seven locations to the Cornelia Playground for the
2012 Tuesday -Thursday Summer Program, up from 36 who had registered in 2011. Aarsvold utilized high
school age program leaders to supervise the children in a variety of healthy activities. Detective
McKenzie made visits with a squad car for kids to explore. The Red Cross Safety Mobile taught water
safety, weather awareness, household safety, and other age appropriate safety lessons. The Edina Crime
Prevention Fund financially supported the bus transportation and Safety Mobile.
In 2012, Aarsvold initiated a Leader in Training program for a selected High School student.
Aarsvold developed a Traveling Teens Summer Program that included field trips to various local
attractions and the teens also participated in community service projects at Countryside Park and at the
Edina Fire Station..
McKenzie initiated Police Department involvement in the annual Night to Unite party at the Edina Park
apartment complex, visiting with residents, showing the residents a squad car and equipment, and
answering questions. He collaborated with the Edina Target to bring school supplies to the party.
Aarsvold taught large group lawn games to the children as well as promoted established programs to
the residents. Parklawn Estates managers grilled food and provided refreshments. About 150 residents
attend this party annually.
19
Aarsvold initiated a "Meet on the Sidewalk" event, which introduced Somali Parents, as well as others in
this Parklawn neighborhood to City and School services, while McKenzie interacted with kids, letting
them explore the squad car and get their photos taken. They invited the Chief of Police, the Director of
the Park and Recreation Department, and City Counselors to attend. DO Town, Veap, and the Cornelia
Elementary Reading Specialist also attended.
This collaborative effort also brought to the attention of the City leaders the need for a safe route to
connect the neighborhood to Cornelia School, and funding for a new bike path has now been approved
by the City Council.
Aarsvold and McKenzie have collaborated with the Edina Family Resource Center, Edina Community
Foundation, American Red Cross, Bloomington Department of Health, Edina Public Schools, DO Town,
VEAP, Target, and the Edina Crime Prevention Fund to support this neighborhood.
Kristen and Tom's inter -department teamwork, has demonstrated a concerted effort to foster respect
and dignity not only for the Somali residents, but for this entire neighborhood, and have demonstrated
leadership by example for improving and advancing human rights in Edina.
20
1.,,,rnelia School Playground Progra.
2011 Highlights
. 36 children registered for transportation provided by Edina Crime Prevention
Fund (the bus made 7 stops on it's way to the program, mainly in the Parklawn Area)
27 families with kids ages 6-14 were served
Over $1,700 Grant in Aid given to families
Van Valkenburg Children's Fund/Edina Community Foundation
12 Field Trips for Traveling Teens (ages 11-14) including Service Project at ARC in Richfield
4 visits from Red Cross Safety Mobile
Topics include: Water Safety, Prevention of Common
Injuries, Summer Weather Safety and Chemical Safety
First ever Red Cross Babysitting Course held at Edina Park Apartments
Special Visits from Detective Tom McKenzie
2012 Hwt enings
NEW Volunteer opportunity forages 13-16 to learn leadership and
job skills as a Leader in Training
Potential summer reading program with Cornelia Elementary
School Media Specialist, open library time & book clubs
Partnership with Edina Community Education to offer programs
and services
PHOTOGRAPHS BY KRISTEN AARSVOLD
Cornelia School Playground Program
oe
UJ
0.
\ ORM
"Meet on the Street" event held at Lake Edina Park prior to the program
start to share resources, summer program information with FREE books!!
59 children registered for transportation provided by the
Edina Crime Prevention Fund to and from Cornelia School Park
tt,
Over 40 families with kids ages 6-14 were served
♦ $1,800 Graft in Aid given to families (Van Valkenburg Children's Fund/Edina Community Foundation)
12 Field Trips for Traveling Teens (ages 11-14) including service project at Countryside Park
One volunteer participated in the new Leader in Training program, program will continue in 2013
NEW partnership with Cornelia Elementary School
Media/Reading Specialists for a Summer Book Club,
participants received free books
Participants visited the school media center every
2 weeks to check out books
Visits from Detective Tom McKenzie
♦ Night to Unite Event at Parklawn Apartments
wrapped up the summer in ,August
0
¢aQo
Al
12 Field Trips for Traveling Teens (ages 11-14) including service project at Countryside Park
One volunteer participated in the new Leader in Training program, program will continue in 2013
NEW partnership with Cornelia Elementary School
Media/Reading Specialists for a Summer Book Club,
participants received free books
Participants visited the school media center every
2 weeks to check out books
Visits from Detective Tom McKenzie
♦ Night to Unite Event at Parklawn Apartments
wrapped up the summer in ,August
0
NOMINATION FORM
TOM OYE HUMAN RIGHTS AWARD
The Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission is seeking applications for its annual Tom Oye Human Rights
Award. This award will honor the late Tom Oye and other members of the Edina community whose good works
promote human relations and advance human rights.
Submit one nominee per form. PLEASE ATTACH AN ESSAY, UP TO 500 WORDS, AND OTHER
SUPPORTING INFORMATION AND INCLUDE YOUR NAME. Provide specific examples, including
attachments if necessary.
Selection Criteria
Anyone who lives or works in Edina is eligible for this award. Nominees will be evaluated based on
their efforts to:
(I) foster respect and dignity for others
(2) model courage and/or compassion in the advancement of human rights
(3) demonstrate leadership by example for improving human relations and/or advancing
human rights
Who are you nominating?
Name l 7 t►YLi e --5� r a //
Occu ationF°r17/ e-- a r
Home address s 713
Work address Sang
Email m s e va
Talenhonenumhers 9S2 - eZ/;'- .5'd 63 6,-) '7- 2rZ- /j
Who makes this nomination?
Comments Regarding Nominee (up to 35 words)
Words that will be printed inside the program if this nominee is selected I
;41o91au �eVa// CAWred' 724Irl>'.�a C'l�ai/e��F�/ -Te-ax- _ �cPad,ry /4-- 6fP-)wft6,kt
44-�r3Vl� o� its ��1 a C�l�aas-a �p Plvtcsr� tw �fh��b�� �21n1.a.. 1'I�h�s
aric rty C {� a 11 tz %� 6 y 1� off, C> ly
Submission Information: i� y-�7c, , a �!, ,n e_�n� ry��t r�Q
Applications must be received by January 31, 2014. Applications will be reviewed by members of the Human
Rights and Relations Commission. The Commission may decline to make an award if in its view no nominee meets the
criteria. The award will be presented in the spring of 2014 at the annual Volunteer Recognition Reception in the Warren
C. Hyde Clubhouse at Braemar Golf Course.
Mail the completed nomination form to: City of Edina, Human Rights and Relations Commission, 4801 West 50th
Street, Edina, MN 55424.
Questions? Contact Annie Coyle at (952) 826-0429 or acoyle@edinamn.gov.
Edina HRRC Award 2014
24
S T R E N GTN EN ING OUR COM M U N ITY
City of Edina
Human Rights and Relations Commission
4801 West 50`1i Street
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Edina, MN 55424
December 31, 2013
SAN ASATO RE: Tom Oye Iluman Rights Award
BRAD BEARD
Dear Commission members:
BERNIE BEAVER
I write in support of the attached nomination for this Award of Mamie Segall, who made a
PETER DAH L singular contribution to the welfare of financially challenged youth in the Edina community in
RON I:RHARDT 2013 by serving as volunteer chair of the Edina Challenge "Team.
SCOT HOUSII This Team was organized by the Edina Community Foundation to ensure that Edina youth
ZANIES HOVLAND living in poverty or near -poverty can more fully participate in the community, educational and
recreational programs that will allow them to develop as healthy, productive adults. Its
STEVEN McDONALD mission was to minimize the discrimination and lack of opportunity that is often experienced
U1, MOOTY by such youth in their access to such programs, either by the lack of a focused effort to
include them or by the lack of resources available to meet their need. The Foundation and
RICHARD OLSON Team were thus committed to a collaborative effort to improve the hunnan rights of these
BRENDA QUAYE youth by reducing the barriers to their full participation in the life of our community.
M A M I E S E G A I_ I
The Edina Challenge Team consists of representatives of 14 grant makers and
service providers in our community who met throughout 2013.
MAXINE WALLIN
City of Edina Park & Recreation Department
EXECUTIVE DIRFcrOR
Connecting With Kids
Edina Community Foundation
nlcl caacl:ETT
Edina Community Lutheran Church
Edina Education Fund
DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
EdinaGiveAndGo
Edina Morningside Rotary Club
MARSHA Buclic7h
Edina Public Schools
Edina Public Schools Community Education Services
Edina Resource Center
Oasis for Youth
Questscope/One2One
Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church
Southdale YMCA
5280 GRANDVIEW SQUARE , EDINA, MINNESOTA 55436 • (952) 833-9573 • FAX: (952) 833-9575
edfoundation@ci.edina-mn.us www.edinacommunityfoundation.org 25
Mamie's effective leadership of this Team led to their consensus identification of
the top five priorities for serving the youth who qualified for Free and Reduced
Price Meals in Edina --Mentoring, Transportation, Tutoring, Extracurricular
Engagement, and Housing. The Team also reviewed a broad range of proposed
programs to meet those needs, endorsed five of those programs for community
support, and recommended three of those for funding by the Edina Community
Foundation:
One2One, a community-based mentoring program in collaboration with
Southdale YMCA that will serve some 20 middle school youth in need;
Oasis for Youth, an organization providing substantial support services
to homeless youth in Edina and the surrounding area; and
The Last Mile, a program of the Edina Resource Center to assist youth in
need after their high school graduation succeed in their goal of enrolling
in college
In recognition of the solid work of Mamie and the Edina Challenge Team, the
Edina Community Foundation Board of Directors approved all of these funding
recommendations and $31,000 in grants for the first six months of 2014.
Throughout this year of effort, Mamie's volunteer work and leadership clearly
reflected the selection criteria for the Tom Oye Human Rights Award:
1. foster respect and dignity for others
2. model courage and/or compassion in the advancement of human rights
3. demonstrate leadership by example for improving human relations and/or
advancing human rights
For these reasons, I am delighted to nominate Mamie Segall for the Tom Oye
Human Rights Award.
Respectfully submitted,
Dick Crockett
Executive Director
26
NOMINATION FORM
TOM OYE HUMAN RIGHTS AWARD
The Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission is seeking applications for its annual Tom Oye
Human Rights Award. This award will honor the late Tom Oye and other members of the Edina
community whose good works promote human relations and advance human rights.
Submit one nominee per form. PLEASE ATTACH AN ESSAY, UP TO 500 WORDS, AND OTHER
SUPPORTING INFORMATION AND INCLUDE YOUR NAME. Provide specific examples, including
attachments if necessary.
(ATTACHED)
Selection Criteria
Anyone who lives or works in Edina is eligible for this award. Nominees will be evaluated based on their
efforts to:
(1) foster respect and dignity for others
(2) model courage and/or compassion in the advancement of human rights
(3) demonstrate leadership by example for improving human relations and/or advancing human rights
Who are you nominating?
Name:
Occupation:
Home and Work address:
Email:
Telephone numbers:
Who makes this nomination?
Name of Person or Group:
Email:
Telephone number:
Relationship to Nominee:
Gail Shore
Executive Director, Cultural Jambalaya
6059 Blake Ridge Rd., Edina, MN 55436
gshore(dwinternet. com
952-925-6102 (hometwork); 612-770-4106 (cell)
Kristi Rudelius-Palmer, Co -Director, Human Rights Center,
University of Minnesota Law School
krpumn.edu
612-626-7794
friend and colleague
Comments Regarding Nominee (up to 35 words)
Words that will be printed inside the program if this nominee is selected
(ATTACHED)
Submit Information
Applications must be received by January 31, 2014. Applications will be reviewed by members of the
Human Rights and Relations Commission. The Commission may decline to make an award if in its view
no nominee meets the criteria. The award will be presented in the spring of 2014 at the annual Volunteer
Recognition Reception in the Warren C. Hyde Clubhouse at Braemar Golf Course.
Mail the completed nomination form to: City of Edina, Human Rights and Relations Commission, 4801
West 50th Street, Edina, MN 55424.
27
NOMINATION FORM
TOM OYE HUMAN RIGHTS AWARD
500 -word essay
There are few culturally unique places on the planet that longtime Edina resident Gail Shore hasn't
visited. For four decades, the globe trekker and photographer has embarked on self-funded solo treks
to faraway places. Her work focuses on people and the traditions, rituals and religions that enrich
fragile cultures around the world.
At the core of Gail's work and mission is human rights. Through her photography, we are inspired
to fight discrimination and promote human rights by simply respecting all people. She believes that
photography is an effective medium to illustrate the diverse cultural backgrounds that continue to make
up more of America's rich mosaic. To begin to break down cultural barriers, she asks us to admire
and value each other's similarities as well as our differences, because the more we know about each
other's background, history and religion, the more respectful we can become of one another.
For years, Gail has presented her unique images and stories to nonprofits and civic organizations, and
has exhibited her work at galleries and art fairs, including the Edina Art Fair. But over the years,
friends and colleagues encouraged her to take her large library of photos and accompanying
experiences to a new level to engage others. Finally in 2005, Gail founded Cultural Jambalaya, an
Edina -based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that uses international photography to promote understanding and
respect for all people.
Along with a board of directors and advisors (that includes a remarkable roster of accomplished Twin
Cities professionals), Gail and Cultural Jambalaya set out to produce creative programs that would
benefit schools, charitable organizations as well as businesses that advance diversity, human
rights and social justice. With in-kind support from its board and financial contributions from like-
minded corporations, the volunteer -based nonprofit began to create one -of -a -kind educational videos
for teachers.
Produced by Twin Cities -based Tremendous! Entertainment, creator and producer of Travel Channel's
hit series, "Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern," Cultural Jambalaya's "Windows and Mirrors"
educational series features images collected during Gail's more than 40 years of travels to distant
regions, including North Korea, Syria, Myanmar, Mali, Bhutan, Namibia, New Guinea, Rwanda and
Tibet, among others.
The "Windows and Mirrors" series is a creative teaching tool for educators in the classroom.
Supported by an online study guide, the videos are a resource for middle school and high school
teachers and aim to promote cultural understanding and acceptance through a variety of subjects,
including social studies, geography, history, diversity and language. The complimentary study guide,
available at www.CulturaiJam.org, includes instructional exercises designed to spark students'
imagination and to encourage them to think broadly as they learn about the new cultures and
individuals in the programs.
Cultural Jambalaya has already produced four videos in its educational series, including programs
on the Middle East, Asia and Africa. The nonprofit is currently in production of its next video on
Latin America.
Gail's work has already earned four national Telly Awards for excellence in cultural education.
In addition to Tremendous! Entertainment, Cultural Jambalaya has also received key support from
Colle + McVoy, which created the nonprofiit's brand and manages its website. Generous sponsors
include Delta Air Lines, Carlson Companies, Comcast, Great Clips, Robins, Kaplan Miller & Ciresi,
Verizon, Video Guidance, Wells Fargo, Wells Fargo Advisors, Hi-Fly'n Productions, Kraus -Anderson
Companies, D'Amico Catering, Tom & Marlene Kayser, and others.
28
Further information
Gail's work has been recently featured in the following:
M/NNPOST - by Education Reporter Beth Hawkins: April 23, 2012
http://www.niinnpost com/learning-curve/2012/04/gait-shore%E2%80%99s-photos-offer-minnesota-
students-world-view?utm source= Minn Post+e-mail+newsletters&utm campaign=771187477e-
4 23 2012 Daily Newsletter4 23 2012&utm medium=email
Edina Magazine - by Eric Larson: September 2012
http //edinamaq. coin/article/arts/photographer-aarl-shore -shares-travel-uhotos?oaae=0.0
Further information about Cultural Jambalaya is available at www,CulturalJpMorg,
Comments Renardina Nominee (up to 35 words)
Words that will be printed inside the program if this nominee is selected
Gail Shore is the founder and executive director of Cultural Jambalaya, an Edina -based nonprofit that
uses global photography to promote human rights by inspiring others to respect our cultural similarities as
well as our differences.
29
NOMINATION FORM
TOM OYE HUMAN RIGHTS AWARD
The Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission is seeking applications for its annual Tom Oye Human
Rights Award. This award will honor the late Tom Oye and other members of the Edina community whose
good works promote human relations and advance human rights.
Submit one nominee perform. PLEASE ATTACH AN ESSAY, UP TO 500 WORDS, AND OTHER
SUPPORTING INFORMATION AND INCLUDE YOUR NAME. Provide specific examples, including
attachments if necessary.
Selection Criteria
Anyone who lives orworks in Edina is eligible for this award. Nominees will be evaluated based
on their efforts to:
(1) foster respect and dignity for others
(2) model courage and/or compassion In the advancement of human rights
(3) demonstrate leadership by example for improving human relations and/or advancing
human rights
Who are you nominating?
Home address
r
Who makes this nomination?
Name of Person or Group Zo #W GA-Sii.M ®g—£
Comments Regarcfing Nominee (up to 35 words)
Words that will be printed inside the program if this nominee is selected
PA SsJa N ,�o,e
Subm /�- eso NS IAI ova �� i)v v � r
nfor tion
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1*0,c.vslaA1 e Ol"'
Appllcations must be received by January 31, 2014. Applications will be reviewed by members of the
Human Rights and Relations Commission. The Commission may decline to make an award if in its view no
nominee meets the criteria. The award will be presented in the spring of 2014 at the annual Volunteer
Recognition Reception in the Warren C. Hyde Clubhouse at Braemar Golf Course.
Mail the completed nomination form to: City of Edina, Human Rights and Relations Commission, 4801 West
50th Street, Edina, MN 55424.
Questions? Contact Anne Coyle at (952) 826-0429 or acoyle@edinamn.gov.
Edina HRRC Award 2013
30
Jessi Kingston
Tom Oye Award nomination Application 2014
While working at General Electric Jessi assisted in creating a diverse supplier network
for vehicle deliveries and maintenance services. This included working with manufacturers and
researching various companies to identify potential suppliers who qualified as either a Woman
Owned or Minority Owned supplier. Once identification was made, Jessi worked with the
supplier to understand their qualifications and validate their certification status. Jessi set up a
tracking and reporting process for the business that could help drive business for clients who
had specific requests to use Woman and/or Minority Owned suppliers.
While working at Digital River, they moved its corporate headquarters from Eden Prairie
to Minnetonka in August 2011. As part of the move, Jessi analyzed current vendor relationships
and looked at future needs for the company as it continued to grow. A challenge within the
technology industry is identifying Women and/or Minority Owned businesses who can supply
services to Digital River. Also while at Digital River, Jessi was able to work with and develop a
relationship with an office and promotional item supply vendor who was not only local to
Minnesota and could support all the Digital River offices within the United States, but also
qualified as a certified Women Owned business.
Jessi has been a member of the Twin Cities Women's Council which was created by and
managed by the University of St. Catherine's Leadership Institute for more than seven years.
While at ING and currently at Digital River, Jessi worked with St. Catherine's team to provide
training and networking opportunities for women in both companies. Over the past five years,
Digital River has been a four -time sponsor of the St. Kate's Leadership Challenge, an all day
conference with more than 300 women in attendance. As part of that sponsorship, Jessi
worked to get Digital River's name in the community and represent the business in a way that
would excite people to want to learn more about the company and possibly seek employment at
Digital River. Jessi has been fortunate to meet women of various ethnic backgrounds who are
dedicated to the advancement of women and minorities, and has been able to form connections
to help assist others, either through coaching or networking, in providing opportunities for
professional advancement.
01
When Jessi was first appointed to the Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission,
one of the first projects the Commission worked on was a Request for Proposal for funding
human services organizations that served the residents of Edina. The process included working
with city staff to update and send out the Request for Proposal, receiving and reviewing
responses, visiting potential recipients, working with other commissioners to develop a
recommendation on which service providers would receive funding and how much, and then
presenting the recommendation to the City Council for approval.
The second project Jessi worked on as a commissioner was the creation of the
Domestic Partnership Ordinance for the City. At the time, there were only three cities within
Minnesota who had a Domestic Partnership Ordinance. A resident of Edina asked that the City
consider an Ordinance and Jessi became the lead commissioner to work on the Ordinance.
Jessi worked with another commissioner in gathering information about Domestic Partnership
Ordinances from different cities and states. We determined we needed additional assistance
and engaged an attorney from OutFront MN to provide guidance on what a city could and could
not provide residents or workers within the City due to Federal Laws. With assistance from
another commissioner and OutFront MN, Jessi created the first draft of the Ordinance and
presented it at an Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission meeting for review. As the
members on the commission were fairly new, there was a significant amount of discussion
around the construction of the Ordinance, how far as a commission should we be creating an
Ordinance around domestic partners, how do we separate this from marriage rights, and are we
in a position to mandate benefits from companies. Over several months the commission tackled
these issues and received feedback from the City Attorney, the City Manager and OutFront MN.
Jessi encouraged members of the public who had reached out to her and those that she knew
to express their feelings about the Ordinance at a public hearing and/or send in letters to the
City Council.
An initial draft was presented to the City Council for review. While there was
overwhelming support for the Ordinance, there was a question about whether the City needed
to offer a registry in order to accomplish the goals and objectives of the Ordinance and were we
32
presenting something that was in essence another way of pushing for marriage for the GLBT
community. After the work session with the City Council, Jessi worked with other
commissioners on how to create a better message about the importance of a registry for
couples in a committed relationship, such as hospital visitation rights. The Ordinance was
updated and presented to the City Council for a first reading. A couple of letters were received
were discussed during the meeting. However, no one chose to speak, either in favor or against
the Ordinance, during the Public Hearing, and the Ordinance unanimously passed both the first
and second reading.
Other activities Jessi was involved with as a Commissioner included:
Key Achievements:
• Served two 1 -year terms as HRRC Commission Chair
• Managed the adoption of a resolution opposing the marriage amendment by the city
council in March 2012
• Provided feedback on the Public Meetings and Religious Observance Policy; adopted
March 2012
• Led Edina HRRC participation in the National Holocaust Museum, traveling Persecution
of Homosexuals in Nazi Germany exhibit, 2012.
• Organized the passage of the Days of Remembrance Proclamation and celebration in
conjunction with the national celebration of Yom Hashoa
• Presented the resolution Expressing Support for the Purchase of Products Containing
Only Conflict -Free Minerals; adopted May 2012
• Participated in the creation of the community -wide anti -bullying event; April 2011
Jessi is currently the Director of the Department of Human Rights and Equal Economic
Opportunity at City of Saint Paul where she continues her efforts in providing the platform in the
City of St. Paul for all minority groups and individuals to advance economically and socially as
they desire.
Throughout her career and life, Jessi has worked on developing her skills in order to
help create processes that mirror her passion for diversity, equality and inclusion of all
perspectives. She exemplifies the true meaning and purpose of the Tom Oye Award.
33
To: HRRC
From: Annie Coyle
Staff Liaison
Date: February 25, 2014
Subject: General Workplan Updates (As Needed)
Action Requested:
Agenda Item #: VILE.
Action ❑
Discussion
Information ❑
Information / Background:
Teams will give updates on items that have not been discussed on previous agenda items.
i. Monitoring Domestic Partner Legislation and the City Ordinance (Stanton/Arseneault)
iii. Community Outreach Working Group (Bigbee and Davis)
iv. Days of Remembrance 2014 ( Seidman)
1. Transgender Days of Remembrance
Consider Black History Month 2015 (Bigbee)
Attachment:
2014 Work Plan by month; 2014 Work Plan by Topic.
vi.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424 34
December 2013
35
HUMAN RIGHTS &
r\ RELATIONS COMMISSION
2014 Work Plan Topics by Month
January
•
Review 2013 Commission Work Accomplished
•
Review Final 2014 Work Plan
•
Appoint leaders for each Commission initiative
•
Present Chair and Vice Chair Nominees
•
Complete update of Bias/Hate Crimes response plan 2013
February
•
Present/Select Tom Oye Award Recipient
•
Elect Officers
•
Review' `2014 draft work plans from .each team
•
Edina Reads February 8
March
•
Updates from teams
•
Review 2014 draft work plans from each team
•
Plan for Special Needs Awareness Campaign
•
Check in on Immigration Reform
April
•
Edina Volunteer Recognition Reception/Tom Oye Award April 29
•
_ Updates from teams
•
Days of Remembrance April 8, 10, 13
May
•
Strategic review of initiatives
•
Updates from teams
•
Annual meeting of boards and commissions with the City Council
June
•
'' Updates from teams
•
Check in on Immigration Reform
July
•
Updates from teams
August
•
Complete update of Bias/Hate Crimes response plan 201`4
•
Review preliminary Work Plan for 2014
September
.
Finalize 2015 Work Plan to submit to Council for Oct. I st work
session
•
Updates from teams
•
Adjust work plan for balance of 2014, as necessary
•
Draft plan and presentation for annual televised meeting
•
Check in on Immigration Reform
October
•
Finalize plan and presentation for annual televised meeting
•
Prepare process for the Tom Oye Award for 2015
•
Special Needs Awareness Campaign
•
Focus on the initiatives and discuss evident/emerging issues in the
community
0
Update from teams
November
.
Annual Televised Meeting
•
Appoint nominating committee
•
Update from teams
December
•
Finalize planning for 2015 — goals, teams, initiatives,etc
•
Check in on Immigration Reform
December 2013
35
2014 HRRC Work Plan Status by Topic
Revised Feb 2014
36
Work Plan Item
Commissioners
Assigned
Current Status
Next Action and Due Date
Monitoring Domestic
Stanton
ON -HOLD
Need to assign new Commissioner/determine if this will be pursued.
February
Partner Legislation and
the City Ordinance.
Update Bias/Hate
Winnick,
On -hold
On hold until dept. report has been completed.
February
Crimes Response Plan
Cashmore
Community Outreach
Bigbee and Davis
IN -PROGRESS
Have been holding meetings with subgroup; identified potential dates
February
Efforts (Including
for trainings
Community Listening
Sessions.)
Tom Oye Award
Winnick
In progress
HRRC received 5 nominations for the 2014 award; recipient will be
February
selected at February meeting.
Special Needs
Davis/Arseneault
Not yet started
Awareness Campaign
Days of Remembrance
Seidman/Cashmo
In progress
Currently publicizing the three events for 2014 in April.
February
2014
re/Davis
Anti -bullying Event and
"Lagerstrom
Completed
Event held February 81at the Senior Center.
February
Education -;Edina Reads
Revised Feb 2014
36
To: HRRC
From: Annie Coyle
Staff Liaison
Date: February 25, 2014
Subject: Recent Updates to the Resource File
Action Requested:
None.
Agenda Item M VII.F.
Action ❑
Discussion ❑
Information
Information / Background:
The HRRC Liaison keeps a resource file at City Hall with relevant information available to HRRC
Commissioners. The file is updated on an on-going basis and a report of new materials included in the file
will be included in each month's packet.
Attachment:
List of recent updates to the HRRC Resource File.
City of Edina 4801 W. 50th St. • Edina, MN 55424 37
HRRC Resources: New Materials
Date
1/28/2014
2/25/2014
Type
Book
Book
Book
Periodical
Event Program
Periodical
News Article
Report
Blog
Periodical
Periodical
Periodical
Report
Periodical
Periodical
Book
Periodical
Report
News Article
News Article
Report
Author/Publisher
Smith, Denny
Gold, Rachel
Shurtleff, Mark L.
Southern Poverty Law Center
MDHR
ACLU
Edina Sun Current
City of Edina
Conservative Cravings
Human Rights Campaign
Southern Poverty Law Center
World Without Genocide
U of M Office for Equity and Diversity
Lavender
Teaching Tolerance
Morris Dees with Steve Fiffer
World Without Genocide
Advocates for Human Rights
Star Tribune
Edina Sun Current
Minnesota Dept of Human Rights
Title
God Did Make Adam & Steve
Being Emily
Am I Not A Man? The Dred Scott Story
Intelligence Report
Human Rights Symposium
STAND (Inaugural Issue)
Edina Group Tackling Gay Rights Issues
2010 Census Data
Edina Human Rights Commission
Equality
SPLC Report
World View
2013 Annual Report
Issue 478
Issue 45
A Lawyer's Journey: The Morris Dees Story
World View
30 Years of Working for Dignity and Justice
Red Wing Considers Rededicating Columbus Day
Edina Fourth Graders Win Human Rights Contest
Racial Disparities
Edition
Winter 2013
2013
Winter 2014
11 -Mar -10
Late Fall 2013
Winter 2013
Spring/Summer 2013
9/18-10/2,2013
Fall 2013
Winter 2014
5 -Feb -14
30 -Jan -14
38
To: HRRC
From: Annie Coyle
Staff Liaison
Date: February 25, 2014
Subject: Correspondence and Petitions
Action Requested:
None.
Information / Background:
Attachment:
Official correspondence received since the last HRRC Meeting.
Agenda Item #: VIII.
Action ❑
Discussion ❑
Information
City of Edina 4801 W. 50th St. Edina, MN 55424 39
000,in %,S
DEFINING EXCELLENCE
February 4, 2014
Chair Arnie Bigbee
Human Rights and Relations Commission
c/o City of Edina
4801 W. 50th St.
Edina, MN 55424
Dear Chair Bigbee,
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES
5701 Normandale Road
Edina, MN 55424
(952) 848-3900
www.edina.k12.mn.us
I want to take this opportunity to thank you for allowing me the opportunity to meet with the
Human Rights and Relations Commission on January 28th. I appreciated the opportunity to
share information about the work Edina Public Schools is doing to support our mission of
serving all students. Also, I appreciated our follow-up discussion and benefited from the
insights shared.
I look forward to our school district maintaining an ongoing relationship with the
Commission. Further, I realize the importance of keeping the City and this Commission
informed when we are addressing opportunities and challenges related to your charge.
Again, thank you, and I look forward to growing our partnership.
cc: Scott Neal, City Manager
WE CARE T WE DARE V WE SHARE 40
N:\Communications\Thank You\Human Rights & Relations.docx
Ell -n I. Kennedy, Ph.D,
7220 Cornelia Uriv(,
17din, . NdN 554.iS
Edina Human Rights and Relations Commission
Edina City Hall
4801 W. 50th Street
Edina, MN 55424
February 10, 2014
Dear Commissioners,
Thank you for the opportunity to speak with many of you, members of the Edina City Council,
and Mayor Hovland last week. It has been a privilege to be involved in some of the past work
of the EHRCC and a real honor to have received the Tom Oye award. I would appreciate the
opportunity to work more directly on the Commission and it would be an honor to be
appointed to serve.
I look forward to hearing from the committee in the near future.
With best regards,
Ellen J. Kennedy, Ph.D.
41
To: HRRC
From: Annie Coyle
Staff Liaison
Date: February 25, 2014
Subject: Elect 2014 Chair and Vice Chair
Action Requested:
Elect Chairperson and Vice Chairperson by majority vote.
Agenda Item #: X1.
Action
Discussion ❑
Information ❑
Information / Background:
The HRRC Nominating Committee has recommended that the HRRC elect Jan Seidman as the 2014
Chairperson and Pat Arseneault as the Vice Chairperson. Terms will run for one year beginning in March
2014.
Attachment:
None.
City of Edina • 4801 W. 50th St. Edina, MN 55424 42
To: HRRC
From: Annie Coyle
Staff Liaison
Date: February 25, 2014
Subject: Thank you for Departing Members
Action Requested:
None.
Agenda Item #: XII•
Action ❑
Discussion ❑
Information X
Information / Background:
A HUGE thank you from the HRRC to departing Commissioners: Russ Stanton, Jessi Kingston, and Leslie
Lagerstrom.
Attachment:
None.
City of Edina 4801 W. 501h St. Edina, MN 55424 43