HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-26-2024 Human Rights Commission Human Rights Commission
November 26, 2024
Regular Meeting — 5:30 PM
Emma J. Harvat Hall, City Hall
Agenda:
i. Call the Meeting to Order and Roll Call
2. Reading of Native American Land Acknowledgement
3. Approval of the September 25, 2024, and November 4, 2024, Minutes
4. Public Comment on Items Not on the Agenda. (Commentators shall address the
Commission for No More than 5 minutes. Commissioners Shall Not Engage in
Discussion with the Commentator or One Another Concerning Remarks)
5. Correspondence
6. Updates on Outreach and Engagement by the Police Department
7. Funding Request: United Nations Association Johnson County
s. Strategic Plan 2024
9. Racial Equity and Social Justice Grant FY24 Reports, FY25 Application Form &
Scoring Criteria.
io. December Meeting Date
ii. Brief Announcements by Staff and Commission Members (Commissioners shall
not engage in discussion with one another concerning said announcements)
12. Adjournment
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all City of Iowa City-sponsored
events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation
in order to participate in these events, please contact the Office of Equity and Human
Rights at 319-356-5022 or humanrights(a)iowa-city.org.
Native American land Acknowledgement
Prepared for the City of Iowa City's Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Human
Rights Commission
PURPOSE
Iowa City owes its existence to the many Indigenous Peoples who were the original stewards of this land
and who were subjected to manipulation and violence by non-native settlers, invaders, and governments
in order to make this moment possible.Acknowledgement of this truth is central to our work toward
reconciliation across all barriers of difference and injustice. Starting with a Native American Land
Acknowledgement, this Commission will bear witness to the legacies of violent displacement, migration,
and settlement that have marginalized those who were the first inhabitants of this land. We must also
address the mistreatment and exclusion that Native Americans continue to face today.The Ad Hoc Truth
and Reconciliation Commission and the Human Rights Commission encourage the community and City of
Iowa City to join us in these efforts through the use of a Native American Land Acknowledgement.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
To be read at all public meetings and events:
"We meet today in the community of Iowa City, which now occupies the homelands of
Native American Nations to whom we owe our commitment and dedication. The area of
Iowa City was within the homelands of the Iowa, Meskwaki, and Sauk, and because
history is complex and time goes far back beyond memory, we also acknowledge the
ancient connections of many other Indigenous Peoples here. The history of broken
treaties and forced removal that dispossessed Indigenous Peoples of their homelands
was and is an act of colonization and genocide that we can not erase. We implore the
Iowa City community to commit to understanding and addressing these injustices as we
work toward equity, restoration, and reparations."
LEARN MORE
Native Governance Center Guide to Indigenous Land Acknowledgement
US Department of Arts and Culture: Honor Native Land Virtual Resources and Guide
Meskwaki Nation - History
Special thanks to the University of Iowa Native American Council for their work and guidance, as well as
members of the public,for their input.
Agenda Item #3
Draft Minutes
Human Rights Commission
September 25, 2024
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Commissioners present: Roger Lusala, Doug Kollasch, Mark Pries,Vianna Qaduora, Elizabeth Mendez
Shannon, Kelsey Paul Shantz,
Commissioners present via Zoom: None.
Commissioners absent: Idriss Abdullahi,Jahnavi Pandya.
Staff present: Stefanie Bowers.
Recommendation to City Council: None.
Meeting called to order: 5:30 PM.
Native American Land Acknowledgement: Kollasch read the Land Acknowledgement.
Public comment of items not on the agenda: No.
Approval of meeting minutes of August 27,2024: Pries moved and Lusala seconded.Approval passed 5-0. (One
Commission not present forthe vote).
Updates on Outreach and Engagement by the Police Department: No report.
Strategic Plan:This event will be held on October 15 at the Robert A. Lee Community Recreational Center.
Commissioners have been asked to complete a survey in preparation for the planning session by October
4. Staff also requested menu preferences by that date to provide a meal for commissioners. Paul Shantz
announced she will be out of town due to work and unable to attend either of the sessions.
CCAN-Con: It was previously discussed that the commission would staff a table at this event, however
commissioner's schedules no longer allow then the flexibility to participate. Staff will send a note to the
planners so indicating.
Indigenous Peoples Day: Lusala, Qaduora, and Pandya will represent the commission at this event being
held on October 14 starting at 4 at Terry Trueblood Recreation Area.
Human Rights Awards: The subcommittee will select honorees for this year's program and let staff know
by Monday, September 30. Staff went over the order of operations for the event and asked who will be
speaking at it. It was decided Pandya will do the closing remarks at the ceremony, the chair and vice chair
will open and announce the honorees.
1
Racial Equity and Social Justice Grant (RESJ): Staff spoke to commissioners regarding past processes
working on the grant and what has not. Staff recommended revamping the current application. Staff
suggested for the grant application, goals, and objectives to be more in line with the ordinance for the
Human Rights Commission. Staff also thinks that the commission may want to lower the max amount an
organization can receive, even making grant a reimbursement or issued on a quarterly basis. Staff will work
on updating the application and present the updates to the commission at a later meeting date. Kollasch
suggested adding more parameters around the possibility of limiting who could receive the grant
depending on if they received any money from the grant the previous year. Paul Shantz suggested
requesting that the questions on the application be more specific or shorter in hopes of deterring
applicants from using Chat GPT. Staff told the commission to send any additional requests by email for
consideration on the new application. Qaduora asked if there was a way to require a background check on
those who apply. Staff said that would be a decision made by the City Council. Lusala noted that the grants
are based on the organization applying for them rather than the individual people submitting the
application on behalf of the org.
Commission Committees'Update:
• Building Bridges (Paul Shantz, Kollasch, Pandya): No update.
• Reciprocal Relationships(Lusala, Pries,Abdullahi): No update.
• Breaking Bread (Dr. Liz, Qaduora) Has been reaching out to current recipients or the RESJ, and they
have about 10 people willing to speak with them allowing them to understand their efforts and how
to best support them.The two have also been in the process of scheduling and hosting another Meet
and Greet.
Announcements of Commissioners:
Mendez-Shannon shared her gratitude for diving into the content of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as she
navigates those subjects in her work outside of the commission. Her work can be found at the Division of
Access, Opportunity, and Diversity(DAOD)through the University of Iowa.
Qaduora shared the upcoming event at the Coralville Public Library-Community Meal on Friday, Sept. 27
and encouraged commissioners to attend. She also shared a Saturday event that is a walk to end
hydrocephalus.
Paul Shantz shared that Sept. 21 was International Day of Peace and her work with Peace in Our Cities
Network (PIOC). It is a global effort to reduce violence in American cities. Visit PIOC.org to find more
information on the research and insights being shared through the network. Paul Shantz also shared her
experiences traveling, including a trip to Nairobi, Kenya where she is working on a story about a woman
who does mental health and trauma resilience healing trainings with women in settlements and men who
have been in jail and are trying to reintegrate into their community.
2
Kollasch shared that there will only be one more HRC meeting before the election. He put forward a call to
commissioners to take direct action and vote.
Lusala reminded commissioners of the first Inaugural African Festival on Saturday, Sept. 28th and
encouraged them to attend.
Pries shared his experience at an event at the ICPL where he was able to speak with international
attendees who have faced American immigration obstacles. Pries also shared his upcoming work with the
Interfaith Alliance: Exposing Christian Nationalism through which he will be facilitating a conversation on
the film Bad Faith on the 13th of October. Pries spoke about his experience meeting with visitors from
Kosovo and hosting Samud through his church. Pries attended a conference on Christian Nationalism and
attended a webinar on Project 2025.
Announcements of staff:Staff shared with the commission that City Council will announce three vacancies on
the Council.Applications for the positions will be due by Tuesday, November 12th at 5:00 p.m. Staff
encouraged commissioners to spread the word about the vacancies.
Adjourned: 6:03 PM
3
Human Rights Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2024
(Meeting Date
TERM 1/23 2/27 3/4 3/26 4/23 5/28 7/23 8/27 9/24 10/22 11/26 12/24
NAME EXP.
JahnaviPandya 2024 X X X X X X X X A
nya Shafer-Van Houtte 2024 - - - - - - - A R
Doug Kollasch 2024 X X X X X X Z X X
Tana Qadoura 2025 X X X X X X X X X
Idriss Abdullahi 2025 - - - - X Z X Z A
Mark Pries 2025 X A X X X X X X X
Roger Lusala 2026 X X X A X X X X X
Kelsey Paul Shantz 2026 X X X X Z X X A X
Liz Mendez-Shannon 2026 X X X A Z X X A X
KEY: X = Present
A = Absent
Z = Present via Zoom
Agenda Item #3
Draft Minutes
Human Rights Commission (Special Meeting)
November 4, 2024
Meeting Room B, Robert A. Lee Recreational Center
Commissioners present: Roger Lusala,Jahnavi Pandya, Mark Pries, Vianna Qadoura, Elizabeth Mendez
Shannon.
Commissioners absent: Idriss Abdullahi, Doug Kollasch, Kelsey Paul Shantz.
Staff present: Stefanie Bowers.
Others present:Jennifer Horn-Frasier.
Meeting called to order: 5:38 PM.
Select a date for the regular November meeting:The Commission will meet at its regular day and time,
Tuesday, November 26 at 5:30 in Emma J. Harvat Hall.
Consider recommending for the City Council to consider adopting an "All Our Welcome" resolution to
promote inclusivity, diversity, and unity within the community: Pries reported he has shared the draft
resolution with other commissioners and community members, and some believe the current draft
should be strengthened. He will present an updated resolution at the meeting on November 26, 2024.
Strategic Planning: The strategic plan that emerged through the first three phases of the process is focused
on helping the HRC collectively and as individual commissioners to be more active and engaged in the
community.The group evaluated what had worked and not worked well in the previous two years, learned
more about the activities of the commission prior to when the pandemic halted much of that activity, and
developed a new shared vision of the commission they want to be for the future.
All the work of the commission must be grounded in its duties that are stipulated in its charter.These duties
are as follows:
1) Make recommendations to the City Council for legislation on discrimination.
2) Cooperate with other agencies and organizations to plan and conduct programs designed to
eliminate racial, religious, cultural, and other intergroup tensions.
3) Educate the public on human rights and unlawful discrimination, such as organizing and facilitating
educational public forums that address one or more of the broad range of topics included within the
rubric of human rights.
While these duties are clear,the commissioners wished to explore ways to see them in action.
1
In discussing the future it would like build,the commission identified key outcomes in two main categories:
how functions internally, and how the HRC engages with the community.
Internally,the commission would like to build toward greater consistency and stability.The commission has
nine members,three of whom are replaced each year. Regularly adding new commissioners keeps
perspectives fresh and ensures that the HRC can reflect changes taking place in the community.The
challenge with this structure, however, is ensuring that outgoing commissioners' knowledge, perspectives,
and activities are passed along to new commissioners. Continuity and stability are important to ensuring the
commission operates efficiently and effectively, and the commissioners identified this as an important
outcome to plan for.
Externally,the commission would like to achieve a state of high community engagement in which there is
meaningful two-way interaction with the community.The HRC would like to be seen by the community as a
supportive resource that listens with curiosity and empathy to all.This deep engagement will enhance the
HRC's ability to be responsive to what it learns from the community.The commissioners are aware that its
current level of engagement activity in the community is lower than it was in the years prior to the
pandemic.Thus,their focus is on how to strengthen engagement.
In the previous strategic plan,the ICHRC had organized subcommittees to address each of the three
priorities it had identified.These subcommittees were designed to meet monthly to plan and carry out their
respective plans.While each subcommittee made some degree of progress on its goals,the commission
found that it was difficult to accomplish the goals in that structure. Each subcommittee included only three
people, and it was difficult to establish and maintain a regular cadence for the work outside of the regular
ICHRC meetings.Thus, during the current strategic planning process,the commission explored other ways to
organize the work of the new strategic plan in order to better set itself up for success.
Commissioners went over the HRC purpose, previous programming, how to set up for its success, and future
goals. Below is the consensus on each area discussed.
Purpose:
HRC exists to bring community members together to discuss our differences and to create a more inclusive
community.
HRC exists to bring communities together, discuss our differences, celebrate our uniqueness, and learn from
one another.
HRC exists to bring highlight areas of progress and regress by celebrating the positive and eradicating the
negative.
Past programming of the HRC that was successful:
Job Fairs—Building Blocks.
Youth Job Fairs.
Know Your Rights Series.
Town and Gown Symposiums.
Lunch and Learns.
2
Film Series.
Panel Discussions.
Toiletry drives for Shelter House& DVIR
Climate Survey.
Diversity Dialogue Circles.
Setting the HRC up for Success:
Change time of subcommittee meetings so that they align with the day and time of the HRC's regular
meeting date each month.
Rotate leadership and note taking for subcommittees.
Ensure continuity year-to-year.
Clear action items each meeting.
Teams for programming each quarter.
Create measurable goals.
Commission Goals:
Strong transfer of training-onboarding of new commissioners.
More community conversations, in places like the library,farmers market, etc.
Encourage more community participation in monthly meetings.
Hold events in spaces where conversations take place.
Commissioners take on responsibility for specific tasks.
Commissioners are at public locations to interact with the public.
Hold retreat in December of each year.
The Commission will follow up on this discussion at its November 26, 2024 regular meeting date
and go over the draft of its 2025 Strategic Plan.
3
Adjourned:8:06 PM
4
Human Rights Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2024
(Meeting Date)
TERM 1/23 2/27 3/4 3/26 4/23 5/28 7/23 8/27 9/24 10/15 11/4 11/26
NAME EXP.
ahnavi Pandya 2024 X X X X X X X X A P P
nya Shafer-Van Houtte 2024 - - - - - - - A R R
Doug Kollasch 2024 X X X X X X Z X X A A
iana Qadoura 2025 X X X X X X X X X P P
Idriss Abdullahi 2025 - - - - X Z X Z A P A
Mark Pries 2025 X A X X X X X X X P P
Roger Lusala 2026 X X X A X X X X X A P
Kelsey Paul Shantz 2026 X X X X Z X X A X A A
Liz Mendez-Shannon 2026 X X X A Z X X A X P P
KEY: X = Present
A=Absent
Z = Present via Zoom
5
Agenda Item#5
From: Simon Andrew
To: Simon Andrew
Subject: Join us at FilmScene!
Date: Thursday,October 24,2024 1:42:25 PM
Attachments: imaoe001.ono
xx This email originated outside of the City of Iowa City email system.Please take extra care opening
any links or attachments. xx
Hello Friends!
Please join us Wednesday, December 4 at 7pm at FilmScene at The Chauncey for our
Community Collaborations screening of The Pruitt-Igoe Myth-presented by The Housing
Fellowship and The Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition.
The film is about the construction and demolition of a large public housing complex in St.
Louis,why it failed, and howwe misinterpreted its failure.The myths associated with public
housing and community development that took hold after the high-profile demolition impact
our decisions today.
Get your tickets here- httl2s://icfilmscene.org/film/the-12ruitt-igoe-myth/. Pay what you can,
and all proceeds will support Fellowship families.
It began as a housing marvel. Two decades later, it ended in rubble. But what happened to
those caught in between?The Pruitt-Igoe Myth tells the story of the transformation of the
American city in the decades after World War II, through the lens of the infamous Pruitt-Igoe
housing development and the St. Louis residents who called it home. The world-famous image
of its implosion has helped to perpetuate a myth of failure, a failure that has been used to
critique Modernist architecture, attack public assistance programs, and stigmatize public
housing residents. The Pruitt-Igoe Myth seeks to set the historical record straight. To examine
the interests involved in Pruitt-Igoe's creation. To re-evaluate the rumors and the stigma. To
implode the myth.
We are looking forward to seeing you there!
Simon
Simon Andrew I Executive Director
322 E. 2nd St., Iowa City, IA 52240
319-358-9212, ext 5 1 www.housingfellowship.com
housingO
fellowship
Follow us on social!
Agenda Item#7
RightsHuman • • • • Request Form
UNESCO CITY OF
The Iowa City Human Rights Commission is allocated$2000 annually to provide financial assistance to community events designed to eliminate
racial,religious,cultural,or other intergroup tensions,including but not limited to,sex,color,creed,disability,gender identity,sexual orientation,
marital status,age,or national origin.
Rules and Requirements for Sponsorship:
• The organization must be physically located in Iowa City.
• The program must take place in Iowa City.
• The program must have a date and location.
• The event date must be prior to the request for financial assistance.
• Applicants cannot be governments,public schools,or colleges/universities.
• Applicants request cannot exceed$250.00.
• Request must include a budget.
• Request must include other sponsors.
• Request cannot be for reimbursement or honorariums to speakers or guests.
• Request cannot be for rental deposits for the venue.
• Request cannot be for fundraising purposes.
• Requests will be denied if another city department/division has financially contributed funding or will be contributing funds for the
program.
• Funding will not be disbursed without the submission of a W9.
• If the request is approved for financial assistance an organization cannot request any further assistance in the same fiscal year.
Signature*
Sign here that you have read and understand the rules and requirements.
G(b,9�G cksrer�n
Date Time
2024-11-04 10:45:52 AM
Organization
Name*
Johnson County United Nations Association
Address*
Street Add ress
308 Burlington St,
Address Line 2
#245
City State/Province/Region
Iowa City IA
Postal/Zip Code Country
52240 US
Contactperson
Name*
Barbara Eckstein
Preferred pronouns
she/her/hers
Phone number*
319 621 9196
Email address*
eckstein.barbara5228@gmail.com
Programdetails
Date of Program*
12/17/2024
Program Title*
Human Rights:Engagement into Action
Location name*
Iowa City Public Library
Location Address*
Street Add ress
123 South Linn Street
Address Line 2
City State/Province/Region
Iowa City IA
Postal/Zip Code Country
52240 US
Describe how the program eliminates racial,religious,cultural,or other intergroup tensions,related, but not limited to: sex,
color,creed,disability,gender identity,sexual orientation,marital status,age,or national origin.
December 10 is Human Rights Day. This year,to commemorate the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,JCUNA will engage seven of
our former Night of a Thousand Dinners honorary ngos in a set of round table discussions about the state of human rights in Johnson
County,specifically in the areas that they work. Open Heartland and InsideOut Reentry are our lead partners in this endeavor.We will
share conclusions and suggested action items for JCUNA but also for our partners.
Is there a financial cost to participate in the project?*
n Yes n No
Describe how socioeconomic barriers to attendance will be addressed.
Dinner will be served without cost.There is no cost to attend.We will make every effort to advertise the event among the populations who
lead and are served by the ngos with which we partner.
M 0
Amount Requested (Maximum request$250.00)*
$250.00
Has any City of Iowa City department or division provided any support for this event?*
(Include in-kind and financial support)
p Yes
QQ No
Will any City of Iowa City department or division provide any support for this event?*
(Include in-kind and financial support)
Q Yes
QQ No
Please list all funding sources or in-kind support for this event including the amount*
JCUNA is the only other source of funds. We may seek special donations from our board and/or members to help pay for the food as our
budget is a tight balance of income and commitments/expenses.That said,the commission's foundational support would be most helpful.
Attache Itemized Budget
Human Rights Budget24.docx 13.28KB
Previous Next
Human Rights: Engagement into Action
17 December 2024
Budget
Food and (nonalcoholic) beverages for 30+:
Catered food for 30=$425
Beverages for 30=$30
Easel paper and markers: $10
TOTAL: $465.00
Agenda Item #8
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Iowa City Human Rights Commission
Strategic Plan
November 2024
Report prepared by:
Jennifer Horn-Frasier
Bluebird Sky, LLC
Jennifer@BluebirdSkySolutions.com
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CONTENTS
Executive Summary......................................... 1
Context ......................................................... 2
Process .............................................................. 2
Strategic Plan ................................................... 3
Recommended Next Steps ............................. 6
Strategic Action Plan ........................................ 6
Conclusion ......................................................... 7
Appendix:
Key Insights from Commissioner Survey........9
Notes from Strategy Retreat 2 .......................12
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In the fall of 2024,the Iowa City Human Rights Commission (ICHRC) engaged in a series of strategic
planning activities and retreats that resulted in a new strategic plan. The main elements of the plan are
listed here, with details following in the body of the report and the appendices.
PURPOSE OF THE IOWA CITY HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
The Iowa City Human Rights Commission exists to raise awareness of and advocate for the protection of
fundamental rights and to celebrate the diversity and shared humanity of all community members.
DESIRED OUTCOMES FOR THE NEXT THREE YEARS
Internally: Consistency and stability within the commission
Externally: High community engagement in which there is meaningful two-way interaction between the
commission and the community
GOALS
1) INTERNAL—Commissioner training: New commissioners receive thorough training, and knowledge
from outgoing commissioners is transferred to the rest of the ICHRC.
2) INTERNAL—Shared leadership: Commissioners share responsibility for activities in which the ICHRC
engages.
3) EXTERNAL—Community engagement:The commission develops deep understanding of the human
rights needs and concerns of the community to inform its recommendations to City Council and to
strengthen the support it provides for community members and organizations working on human
rights.
KEY ACTIVITIES
Goal 2a: Shared Leadership—December Planning Session
The commission would meet in December each year, once the new commissioners are selected and the
outgoing commissioners are still in place. This meeting would be used to provide the desired continuity
from year to year and set goals and plans for the coming year.
Goal 2b: Shared Leadership—Rotating Quarterly Programming
Each quarter, a different group of two to four commissioners would volunteer to organize community
engagement programming, in collaboration with city staff members.
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STRATEGIC PLAN
CONTEXT
The Iowa City Human Rights Commission (ICHRC) created a strategic plan in the first half of 2022, at the
tail end of the challenging pandemic period.The ICHRC made progress on the programs and goals it had
set in that plan but, by 2024, commissioners felt they could be doing more.Thus,they decided to
engage in another strategic planning process with a goal of increasing the engagement and impact of
the ICHRC in the post-pandemic era. Specifically,the commission wished to explore ways it could more
actively support the community it represents.
PROCESS
The 2024 strategic planning process followed by the ICHRC was organized into four phases:
Phase 1:Where are we now? Understanding the current state through a survey and preliminary
conversations
Phase 2:Where are we going? Clarifying the future direction and desired outcomes through a
facilitated retreat
Phase 3: How will we get there? Designing projects and specifying actions to help the ICHRC achieve
the desired outcomes through a second facilitated retreat
Phase 4:Turning plans into action: Determining how to organize commissioners' efforts to carry out
prioritized projects
In Phase 1, the online survey comprised 13 items,the results of which were used to design the planning
retreats. Key insights of the survey are included in the appendix.
In Phase 2, the objectives for the retreat included these:
• Create a shared understanding of the current state of the Iowa City Human Rights Commission
and human rights in our community.
• Provide input to city staff on key topics to guide their work in support of the ICHRC.
• Create a first draft of a framing question to guide the development of the new strategic plan.
The retreat in Phase 3 was designed around the following objectives:
• Create a clear shared vision of the future of how the commission will function in the next three
years.
• Set goals for the next three years.
• Identify metrics to track that will allow the ICHRC to evaluate progress toward its goals.
This report summarizes the output of the first three phases. Phase 4 is planned for early 2025.
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THE PLAN
The strategic plan that emerged through the first three phases of the process is focused on helping the
ICHRC collectively and as individual commissioners to be more active and engaged in the community.
The group evaluated what had worked and not worked well in the previous two years, learned more
about the activities of the commission prior to when the pandemic halted much of that activity, and
developed a new shared vision of the commission they want to be for the future.
All the work of the commission must be grounded in its duties that are stipulated in its charter.These
duties are as follows:
1) Make recommendations to the City Council for legislation on discrimination.
2) Cooperate with other agencies and organizations to plan and conduct programs designed to
eliminate racial, religious, cultural, and other intergroup tensions.
3) Educate the public on human rights and unlawful discrimination, such as organizing and
facilitating educational public forums that address one or more of the broad range of topics
included within the rubric of human rights.
While these duties are clear, the commissioners wished to explore ways to see them in action.To that
end, they distilled the duties into a single statement of purpose:
The Iowa City Human Rights Commission exists to raise awareness of and advocate for
the protection of fundamental rights and to celebrate the diversity and shared
humanity of all community members.
The Future State:Where are we going?
In discussing the future it would like build, the commission identified key outcomes in two main
categories: how the ICHRC functions internally, and how the ICHRC engages with the community.
Internally,the commission would like to build toward greater consistency and stability.The commission
has nine members, three of whom are replaced each year. Regularly adding new commissioners keeps
perspectives fresh and ensures that the ICHRC can reflect changes taking place in the community.The
challenge with this structure, however, is ensuring that outgoing commissioners' knowledge,
perspectives, and activities are passed along to new commissioners. Continuity and stability are
important to ensuring the commission operates efficiently and effectively, and the commissioners
identified this as an important outcome to plan for.
Externally, the commission would like to achieve a state of high community engagement in which there
is meaningful two-way interaction with the community.The ICHRC would like to be seen by the
community as a supportive resource that listens with curiosity and empathy to all.This deep
engagement will enhance the ICHRC's ability to be responsive to what it learns from the community.The
commissioners are aware that its current level of engagement activity in the community is lower than it
was in the years prior to the pandemic.Thus, their focus is on how to strengthen engagement.
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The Plan: How will we get there?
Commissioners identified several goals, each with supporting actions.
Internal Goals Supporting Actions
a) Every new commissioner participates in a
standardized onboarding process by the end of their
1) Commissioner training: New first month of service.
commissioners receive thorough b) Experienced commissioners serve as mentors for new
training, and knowledge from commissioners during their first year on the ICHRC.
outgoing commissioners is transferred c) Departing commissioners share an overview of their
to the rest of the ICHRC. critical activities and vital community relationships
with the staff and commission prior to their last day of
service.
a) Each December, the commission holds a planning
session to set goals for the coming year and to make
2) Shared leadership: Commissioners plans for meeting those goals.
share responsibility for activities in
which the ICHRC engages. b) Each quarter, a rotating group of commissioners is
responsible for leading the planning and executing of
community engagement activities.
External Goals Supporting Actions
a) Commissioners, as representatives of the ICHRC,
3) Community engagement:The attend, participate in, and/or present at public events
commission develops deep with residents from all areas of the community.
understanding of the human rights Engage frequently in community conversations.
needs and concerns of the community b) Commissioners regularly share with the full ICHRC
to inform its recommendations to City what they are hearing and learning in the community.
Council and to strengthen the support c) Commissioners regularly receive updates about the
it provides for community members issues being addressed by the Office of Equity.
and organizations working on human d) Commissioners use these community interactions to
rights. identify areas of local human rights concerns and
explore what advocacy might be needed.
P. 11
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The Plan: Some details
While detailed plans are needed for each of the Supporting Actions included in the previous two tables,
the commissioners have developed initial plans for two items.
Goal 2a: Shared Leadership—December Planning Session
The commission would like to meet in December each year, once the new commissioners are selected
and the outgoing commissioners are still officially in place.This would help provide the desired
continuity from year to year through the following activities:
• Celebrating the work of the year
• Reviewing progress made on the goals set at the beginning of the year
• Setting commission-level goals for the coming year
• Setting individual goals for the commissioners who will be serving in the coming year
• Recognizing and thanking outgoing commissioners
• Welcoming incoming commissioners
• Establishing mentor relationships
• Allowing opportunity for all to become better acquainted in preparation for voting on new
leaders at the January meeting
Goal 2b: Shared Leadership—Rotating Quarterly Programming
Each quarter, a different group of two to four commissioners would volunteer to organize community
engagement programming, in collaboration with city staff members. Some ideas for programming
include these:
• Programming related to the various awards given by the commission
• Education topics related to award recipients,to current events, or to other issues and concerns
the commission is aware of through its community engagement efforts and the regular updates
from the city staff
• Programming developed in collaboration with other community organizations, such as Great
Iowa City or the United Way of Johnson &Washington Counties
Setting the Commission Up for Success
In the previous strategic plan, the ICHRC had organized subcommittees to address each of the three
priorities it had identified.These subcommittees were designed to meet monthly to plan and carry out
their respective plans. While each subcommittee made some degree of progress on its goals,the
commission found that it was difficult to accomplish the goals in that structure. Each subcommittee
included only three people, and it was difficult to establish and maintain a regular cadence for the work
outside of the regular ICHRC meetings.Thus, during the current strategic planning process,the
commission explored other ways to organize the work of the new strategic plan in order to better set
itself up for success.
p. 12
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As the commission carries out the activity of this strategic plan, it will incorporate the following
practices:
• Annually set and track goals for the commission as a whole.
• Each commissioner should also set and track personal goals in support of the ICHRC's annual
goals.
• Each quarter, rotate teams to lead programming efforts. Also rotate the responsibility for
leading and capturing notes for subcommittees or teams.
• When there is a need for a subcommittee to meet, consider holding the meeting the same day
as the ICHRC monthly meeting.
• Identify and record clear action items for each meeting.
• Follow up on action items from previous meetings.
• Regularly evaluate progress being made toward strategic goals by tracking measurable metrics.
RECOMMENDED NEXT STEPS
Given the rate of change in the world today, a strategic plan needs to be a living document that evolves
as the organization makes progress and responds to changing external conditions. For this plan,the
overall purpose of the commission and the umbrella outcomes should be constant guides, while the
details of the actions the commission takes from year to year are adjusted to account for progress and
change.
Thus,the framework for annual plans and activities should be these three elements taken together:
Purpose:The Iowa City Human Rights Commission exists to raise awareness of and
advocate for the protection of fundamental rights and to celebrate the diversity and
shared humanity of all community members.
Internal Outcomes: Consistency and stability within the commission
External Outcomes: High community engagement in which there is meaningful two-
way interaction between the commission and the community
Starting with the December 2024 planning session, it is recommended that the commission take the
following action each December:
1) Set a small number of specific, measurable goals for the coming year for the commission as a
whole
2) Identify one or two metrics to track for each goal
3) Define activities that can be implemented to achieve the goals
4) Set timelines for these activities
5) Identify who will be responsible for the activities
6) Invite each commissioner to set personal goals in support of the commission's goals, along with
a metric or two for each
p. 13
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Following this planning session, each monthly commission meeting could include an agenda item to
review progress on the strategic plan, celebrate progress, and troubleshoot obstacles.
Additionally, the commission may want to consider including at each monthly meeting the opportunity
for each commissioner to make a micro commitment.This is a commitment each individual offers in
accordance with their time, interests, and resources to engage in some activity that helps further the
goals of the commission. A micro commitment typically requires up to an hour of time to complete.
Then commissioners could also report each month on the outcomes and learning from their micro
commitment to help educate and inform colleagues and to seek assistance for activities where needed.
The combination of annual commission goal setting and planning, individual goal setting, sharing the
leadership for new activities, monthly progress monitoring, and monthly micro commitments can create
a powerful result of progress.
CONCLUSION
The commission has created a framework for its work that provides clear guidance and also allows for
flexibility to adapt to the evolving issues and needs of the community it serves. Additionally,the
approach it has chosen is one that lends itself to starting relatively small and building on actions over
time.This type of approach helps ensure the commission will not be overwhelmed by the new work but
instead will be organized to make steady progress over time, increasing its positive impact—a
tremendous benefit to the entire community.
p. 14
Agenda Item#9
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FY24 Social Justice Racial Equity Grant Report
November 1st, 2024
The Wright House Summer Workshops offer a dynamic array of
educational programs designed to empower youth and aspiring
T� 1 creatives through hands-on experiences in design, technology,
and sustainable fashion. These workshops are aimed at fostering
creativity, technical skills, and community involvement. The
offerings are diverse, including everything from coding and artificial
intelli ence to fashion technology and sustainable textile practices.
g gY
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run workshops.
Key highlights include:
UN School of Design: Bridging science, art, and nature through an
exploration of design principles. Led by Jiyun Park, this workshop
engages students in the intersection of artistic and scientific thinking.
Future Minds: Empowering Youth Through Al Education: This
program, taught by Robert Schafbuch, introduces students to the
transformative power of artificial intelligence, providing foundational
- knowledge in a rapidly growing field. This was taught by Robert
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Schauf from Know More.
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Fashion Technology: Kaelen Novak Graduate student in theatre
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instructed students on using CL03D software for digital fashion
design, helping participants explore the future of fashion and
costume design in a virtual environment.
Screen Printing Workshop: A practical, hands-on session led by
Andre Wright, where participants learn the art of screen printing and
create their own designs.
Intro to Sewing: Margaret Street teaches the basics of sewing,
�! offering students essential skills in garment construction and repair.
All
Coder Dojo: NewBo Co leads a series of coding sessions for
K-5 students, introducing them to the world of STEM in a fun and
,� interactive environment.
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FY24 Social Justice Racial Equity Grant Report
November 1st, 2024
Magical Indigo Dye: Taught by Astrid Bennett, this workshop
focuses on sustainable tie-dye techniques, using natural fibers and
_ dyes to create unique textiles.
Introduction to Code: NewBo Co offered a comprehensive
introduction to front-end web development, helping students
understand the basics of coding and software development.
Each workshop is designed to accommodate a range of skill
levels and interests, promoting innovation, sustainability, and
entrepreneurship. The workshops are part of Wright House's broader
mission to foster creativity and self-agency among youth, particularly
those from underrepresented communities. By providing access to
professional instruction and resources, these programs aim to build
a pathway for participants to pursue careers in design, fashion, and
technology.
Through these initiatives, Wright House continues to inspire and
prepare the next generation of creators, empowering them to
contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader world.
FASHION TECH WORKSHOP
- KAELEN NOVAK EQUIPMENT: In addition to hosting and running the workshops
Wright House was able to use funding from the Human Rights
j - Social Justice and Racial Equity grant to purchase screen printing
equipment, including a four-color press, a flash dryer, exposure unit,
and supplies, to empower the Iowa City community, fostering equity
and future creative workshops.
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FY24 Social Justice Racial Equity Grant Report
November 1st, 2024
The Wright House Summer Workshop is crucial because it
provided youth and aspiring creatives with hands-on skills in
sustainable fashion, technology, and design. These workshops
foster innovation, empower underrepresented communities, and
- h- create pathways to professional careers. By offering access
to industry-standard tools and expert mentorship, the program
builds confidence, encourages entrepreneurship, and promotes
equity, ensuring participants can contribute meaningfully to their
} communities and industries. This initiative helps dismantle barri-
ers in creative fields, particularly for BIPOC designers, fostering
diversity and inclusion which is social justice and racial equity.
1
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Agenda Item#9
Houses into Homes
401 6th Ave. Suite 1
Coralville IA 52241
319-435-1075
directors@housesintohomes.org
HOUSES INTO HOMES
October 23, 2024
RESJ Report: Houses into Homes Kitchen Starter Sets
In our grant application, we noted that our community addresses food insecurity through our
food pantries and food rescue organizations, but having the food items is only part of the
solution. Individuals and families need kitchen equipment to turn food into meals. We want to
make sure that every home we furnish has the kitchen essentials, and the majority of the
households we serve need at least a few cooking items.
PROVIDING KITCHEN SETS
We were lucky this year to receive several grants to support our approach to address food
insecurity. The combined funding supports kitchen sets for 138 households, which includes the
RESJ funding for 60 kitchen starter sets. We have made an effort to use the funding as
cost-effectively as possible, so most items were purchased around Labor Day sales. Since July
1, 2024, we have delivered to 110 households. 56 of those households (53%) requested and
received kitchen sets.
As of today, we have purchased most items proposed in this grant application. We now have
many kitchen sets on ❑ur shelves, and we will be delivering those over the coming months. A
few photos of the purchased items are below.
I M PACT
We have been unable to add a question to our post-delivery survey about receiving kitchen
items, but we can report anecdotally that being able to provide complete kitchen sets makes a
difference. At our pre-delivery visits, we ask the heads of household if there are certain foods
they like to make, and we make sure to bring the equipment needed for that special dish. For
example, several households have requested stock pots large enough to make soup, ❑r chicken
and dumplings for one person, so they can feed their whole family. Others have let us know they
love to bake, and have requested baking equipment. Before we bring dishes, glasses, and
kitchen starter sets, many households are making due with paper plates and plastic silverware.
Thank you,
Lucy Barker, Director of Development
Houses into Homes
Houses into Homes
401 6th Ave. Suite 1
Coralville IA 52241
319-435-1075
directors@housesintohomes.org
HOUSES INTO HOMES
October 22, 2024
RESJ Report: Houses into Homes Change Your World Youth Volunteer Academy
FALL 2024 YVA
Our Fall 2024 cohort of the Youth Volunteer Academy kicked off on Saturday, October
19. 20 students registered, and 12 were present for our first meeting. We have students
from six high schools represented: City, West, Liberty, Tate, Regina, and Clear Creek
Amana_
The Fall 2024 YVA will meet on seven Saturdays, from 12-3pm. Each session will
include one hour of volunteer activity followed by two hours of interactive learning about
the following topics:
• Trust-building
• Identity & Microaggressions, Stereotypes & Prejudice
• Historical Systems of Oppression (Housing), Cycles of Poverty
• ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences)
• Cycle of Domestic Violence
PROJECT COORDINATOR
Our Youth Volunteer Academy combines volunteer time with learning about important
issues that inform the work Houses into Homes does. Our Project Coordinator,
Madison, has been able to recruit more students than any of our previous three cohorts.
She is also leading the volunteer activities for most Saturday sessions.
GOALS
Goals mentioned in our application include:
• Increased awareness and understanding of social justice topics, privilege,
identity, and more,
• 30 hours of volunteering opportunities, and
• Creating a guide that can be shared.
Survey
Students took a survey before Fall 2024 YVA started, and they will take a post-survey at
the last session. We have unfortunately not received the results of the Spring 2024
survey from our research team. This time we are administering the survey ourselves
and will be able to make comparisons.
30 hours of volunteer time
Fall 2024 YVA will provide the opportunity for 23 hours of volunteer time. Five sessions
will be the usual volunteer time and learning. Students will participate in a Houses into
Homes delivery day on December 7, 2024, and then come back together for a reflection
and celebration on December 14.
YVA curriculum guide
At this time, we have a basic version of our curriculum. As we mentioned in our request
for an extension, in the spring of 2024, we contracted with one of our facilitators to pull
together all the lessons into a curriculum guide that could be shared with other
organizations. That work remained unfinished, and our current Project Coordinator is
working on filling in some of the missing information.
EXPENSES
Expenses include payroll for our project coordinator, session facilitators, bags and other
supplies, and snacks and drinks for students.
A final report with expenses will be submitted by December 31 , 2024.
Thank you,
Lucy Barker
Director of Development
Houses into Homes
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Agenda Item#9
Indigenous Art Alliance
Grant Report 11/29/24
The mission for the Indigenous Art Alliance is Educating and exploring Indigenous Culture,
heritage, and history through contemporary arts. Emphasis is placed on the historical tribal
nations of Iowa, while also giving the broader scope of Indigenous perspective.
The Indigenous Art Alliance hosts events showcasing Indigenous Arts and Artists to the Iowa City
community, as well as the State of Iowa in general. While we strive to provide contemporary arts
and artists, we also provide education about history of Indigenous Peoples.Through this endeavor
we bring forth healing and a look at Indigenous culture through art, storytelling, song,film, spoken
word,fashion and food. The variety of art mediums gives a broader look into where Indigenous
People have been and where we are today.
Project Description
The Indigenous Art Alliance hosted an event on October 14t", 2024,for Indigenous Peoples Day. The
event was at the Beloved Community Initiative in Iowa City. The event showed maps and
information about Meskwaki people, and the ties to the Iowa City area.There we also books by
myself that I shared, giving context to what I have been doing as an artist.The event engaged in
small conversation about the history of Meskwaki people.There was also discussion about the
Indigenous Art Alliance and our mission. The event also showcased a recording artist from Oglala,
South Dakota,Tiana Spotted Thunder. Tiana is a vocalist of many genres but specializes in singing
traditional Lakota and indigenous music. She travels throughout North America to Powwows as a
backup singer for drum groups as well as performing solo for various audiences. Her vocal range
reveals the pride of her identity as a Lakota woman. Information can be found on her website
tianaspottedthunder.com.
Tiana came for one and a half hours to sing, accompanied by stories of song origin. She also shared
herjourney about how she started singing, and where she grew up.Tiana's upbringing is what
influenced her to sing, as she was encouraged by relatives in her life.Tiana shared how these songs
have brought her healing, and how she uses her singing to help woman and young girls to find
healing as well. Tiana also spoke about the history of her tribe and her ancestry.
The event consisted of Iowa City community members, and students of the University of Iowa's
Native American Student Association and the International Writer's Program.
The Indigenous Art Alliance has two more events planned for November 16t"and the 24t".The first
event is a Native Comedy Show featuring Tatanka Means and Adrianne Chalepah.This event is
going to be at the Willow Creek Theatre in Iowa City, Iowa.This event was planned for November to
Celebrate Native Heritage Month.
Adrianne Chalepah is a multi-talented Native American artist,who has built her career on a
profound love for storytelling.This passion fuels her success across various creative disciplines,
including comedy, acting, and public speaking. A Fort Lewis College honors graduate,Adrianne's
storytelling journey began in stand-up comedy with "49 Laughs Comedy"; and her co-founded
group "Three Sisters Comedy"; performing throughout North America.
Her gift for narrative has seam lesslytranslated to acting,with notable roles in groundbreaking
series like FX's"Reservation Dogs"; Peacock's"Rutherford Falls"; and most recently as Laura,
Bennie Safdie's girlfriend, in the acclaimed series"The Curse";As a 2021 Yes and Laughter Lab
Finalist and MFA holder in Creative Writing, Chalepah continues to craft compelling stories both
on and off screen.
A member of the Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma and a mother of four, Chalepah draws from her rich
cultural background to inform herwork.Whetherthrough stand-up,acting, or speaking
engagements, her dedication to authentic storytelling remains the cornerstone of her diverse
and impactful career.She will be performingwith another notable Native American comedian.
Tatanka Means is an award-winning actor and stand-up comedian from Chinle,Arizona. He
represents the Navajo, Oglala Lakota,Yankton Dakota and Omaha Nations. His most recent film is
the Oscar nominated "Killers of The Flower Moon" directed by the legendary Martin Scorsese and is
now available onAppleTV+. Means is currently filming on Kevin Costner's new epic western,
"Horizon:An American Saga"with part one just released in theaters and part two coming out this
fall. He can be seen next in "Wind River: Rising" "Outer Range" on Amazon, "Opus"with A24,
"Canyon of the Dead"and season one of the new NETFLIX series, "Ransom Canyon."
Aside from actingTatanka performs stand-up comedy throughout Indian Country spreading the
good medicine of laughter and inspirational motivation to all ages.Tatanka was recently a featured
comedian on the PBS special, "Roots of Comedy,"with Jesus Trejo. He has become one of the
busiest most in-demand touring Native comedians performing today.Tatanka was named
"Entertainer of The Year" by the National Indian Gaming Association. He is proud to be an alcohol&
drug-free sober performer.
This event showcases two premier comedians in Native American Performing Arts.This event
would be great for sharing the journey of these artists who I have seen coming up in their respective
careers.The story of where they have come from, and how they got to be on successful TV series is
truly remarkable.This event will be great for the community and provide a vison of what we are
doingwith the Indigenous Art Alliance.We have been marketingthe event on social media and will
be invitingthe Ulowa Native American Student Association and people of the Meskwaki
community.This event will be documented with photos and be filmed for our YouTube Channel.
Meskwaki Nation Times, has also been invited to document the event, as well as the All Native Hip-
Hop Show.
The event on Nov. 24t", 2024, is a Native Hip-Hop Show at Gabe's in Iowa City.This event will
feature some great Native Hip Hop artists who have some great upcoming stories,that will teach
and provide a great narrative of their respective tribal histories.This event is an all-ages show,
featuring Stella Standing Bear,Tall Paul, Def-I and Stuart James.This is an all-ages show.
All these artists provide a positive message and come from different tribal nations.All these artists
have worked as respective artists and have given back to Native communities, have hosted
workshops for youth and have continued to make an impact in Native arts.
All the artists I have invited to perform fit the Mission of the Indigenous Arts Alliance.All the artists
have dedicated their time to creating positive platforms and have been working at their craft for
years.
The goal of having these artists and events is to raise awareness about Indigenous Peoples,and the
things we go through as Indigenous peoples.To provide stories and art that shows what life is like
for Native people who are young and continue to educate the public about what life is like for a
Native/Indigenous person today.To speak about the injustices,we continue to face today, and the
disparities we encounter as Native/Indigenous peoples.To raise awareness about the
environmental injustices we face, still on our Indigenous lands.The racism we deal with and the
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives crisis we are sti[If acing.To raise awareness about the
effects of Colonialism and Colonization that still lingers today.To bring awareness to the mental
health problems we face in our lives and communities;the drug and alcohol problems and what
they bring.And the problems that come out of those problems, like Domestic Violence.To also tell
through our art,the ways we have personally combatted all those things,to make it where we are
today and to share and perform our art, making it out of that environment to do positive things with
our lives. Through the arts and the artists,we invite people to perform for the public to get a real-
life look at not only the inequalities we face but can also see the beauty we still carry passed down
for generations. Indigenous people still have things to offer society and still have a story to tell,
despite the continued attempts at erasure.
The events are open to the public and invites have been sent to other organizations throughout
Iowa and Iowa City.The University of Iowa Native American Student Association has been invited to
attend.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Some of the problems that we have faced so far in organizing these events and hosting these
events have been finding venues in Iowa City. Some venues we asked have had prior bookings,or
didn't respond to my request for a booking, or wanted more money than we had to give for a venue
space. However,the venues we eventually got were recommended by friends.
Other issues have been finding other sponsors to help with these shows. I have asked many
businesses in Iowa City and the Meskwaki Tribal community but have never received a response.
Hopefully,for events coming in 2025, 1 will have a response by then.
A bigger issue is getting the property on 10 S. Gilbert St. opened, due to lack of financial support. I
still have a lease on the space and am working to acquire the funds to open the doors. I have
applied for grants from Indigenous organizations and have requested help from tribal governments
but haven't gotten a response at this time. Despite that, I am still working on providing not only
these events, but the events I have lined up for 2025.
Because of this I have had to change some things to make these events happen. Until I can resolve
the issue of the property, I will have to find space for my events.
Results and Impact
These events have brought forth insight on the Indigenous perspective from the voices of young
indigenous peoples.The artists have been working at their art form for several years and have
showcased their vision to help transform communities and change the narrative of Indigenous
people and the stereotypes Indigenous peoples face.Through these events people have gained a
better idea of the injustice, racism and health issues that disparage Indigenous communities,and
how these ills are rooted in colonization. It is our vision that through these performances and art
exhibitions people will learn and gain knowledge about the various Indigenous people that thrive
today in all parts of the country.Thus,creating a better future of all who are absent the Indigenous
perspective.
The artists of the Hip Hop Showwill be meeting with youth from the Meskwaki Community before
the Event to share their experiences in the music business and theirjourneys.The artists will meet
with the youth in Iowa City.
Financial Summary
Furthermore, I have spent$16,281.90.
6375.00 on Stella Standing Bear Performance 11/24/24
5,000.00 on Tatanka Means Performance 11/16/24
1200.00 on Tiana Spotted Thunder Performance 10/14/24
1877.00 on Alpha III Sony Camera for Livestreaming and Documenting Events for Social Media
179.10 Graduate Hotel for Tiana Spotted Thunder Lodging
1650.00 for Adrianne Chalepah Performance 11/16/24
Future Plans
I am currently working on hosting an art exhibition featuring artists from the Meskwaki community. I
have several artists working on art right now for this event. I am also working on an Indigenous
Fashion Show for 2025. Future events will be held in Iowa City.
I will be hostingthe other events in 2025. 1 have posted photo of Tiana Spotted Thunder Indigenous
Peoples Day event on my social media page.All these events are geared toward building
community and education with the intention of eliminatingthe inequities of Indigenous
Representation in Iowa City and Iowa.The events in Novemberwill be posted on all social media
accounts and on our YouTube Channel.
Open Heartland Agenda Item#9
SJRE Q1 Report
Open Heartland: FEAST Project
(Foundational Education & Skills Training)
FY24 Social Justice and Racial Equity Grant: Quarter 1 Report
Project Summary: Through participation in the "FEAST" project, participants will build self-
esteem and a sense of belonging to a new culture and community, as well as build essential
skills . The majority of the adults served by Open Heartland were not able to finish school in
their home countries due to lack of access, the necessity to go to work at a very young age, or
poverty. The project programs and activities, all with free childcare provided, will be
accessible to clients in their native Spanish language at no cost to increase access. The
program activities will impact families by allowing adults and youth opportunities to: improve
their abilities to speak and understand English, participate in community conversation groups
with native English speakers, build leadership skills, gain understanding of US culture,
strengthen family ties, and improve their mental health with active involvement in support
groups. All "FEAST" programs are free and will be facilitated during times that our families
can attend with childcare provided.
Grant Activities thru October 31, 2024:
English Classes
English Language classes take place every Saturday afternoon from 5pm-6:30 pm. Through
the "FEAST" project funding, we have contracted with Antelope Lending Library to both
provide the classes and childcare utilizing their mobile library. We have a committed group of
10-12 students who attend weekly, and recently have had many new individuals joining the
class from both the Latinx immigrant community and the African refugee community. Our
goal for spring 2025 is to add additional weekday evening English Language class to
accommodate additional ELL learners.
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Open Heartland
SJRE Q4 Report
Leadership Development
Our Women's Leadership Team meets monthly to discuss issues related to the challenges
faced by Spanish speaking families from Central American and Mexico who have immigrated
to Johnson County. Topics include family safety, work environments, basic needs, and how to
support their children in the ICCSD school system. Through the "FEAST" project funding, we
have paid for food and childcare for the women attending. In addition, a strong focus for this
group has been on leadership development this fall. Each of the 20 women who belong to
our Leadership Team have developed a system through WhatsApp to communicate with the
families from their neighborhood whom they represent.
This Leadership Team planned and facilitated a Back to School Event in August at Open
Heartland. At this event, students ranging from preschool through college were able to
acquire backpacks and school supplies and register for winter coats and athletic shoes. The
Leaders both promoted the event and planned family activities for the 300+ families in
attendance.
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Open Heartland
SJRE Q1 Report
A new Open Heartland Membership Program was developed by this above mentioned
Leadership Team in the Fall of 2024. This program was the result of two things: 1) the need
for Open Heartland to collect data regarding who is being served and 2) the need for
improved communication with our families. Our leadership team has been charged with
working out all of the program details for an official launch in March 2025. We are anticipating
over 500 families registering for our Membership Program which will give them access to all of
Open Heartland's resources, programs, and services.
Folkloric Dance Group
This grant has supported the formation of two Open Heartland Folkloric Dance Groups
including a youth group of Latinx children ages 4 thru 12 and a high school dance group. Our
Leadership team has organized and facilitated all Folkloric activities including forming a
Sewing Club of moms who both designed and sewed/constructed all of the beautiful
costumes. Our dancers have performed locally for ICCSD culture events, LatinoFest Iowa
City, West Branch Latino Days, and at Big Grove Brewery for local fundraisers. This project
has not only been beneficial for the youth involved in building self-esteem, but it's been
incredibly empowering for the adults involved giving them an opportunity to share their cultural
heritage.
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Open Heartland
SJRE Q1 Report
Family Enrichment Programs
During the summer of 2024, four family programs were implemented at Open Heartland for
our families. Special art, STEM, and physical fitness programs were developed by both UI
and ICCSD students who facilitated them with youth ages kindergarten through 6th grade.
While the kids were in camp (3pm to 7pm), parents were able to spend time building i
relationships over coffee and helping volunteer at Open Heartland's tienda sorting donations
and helping new families learn more about our organization. In addition, three 3rd/4th grade
students expressed a special interest in building remote control helicopters from our summer
camp experiences. These youth will be working with a UI professor the first week of
November to actualize this STEM interest.
Expenses
"FEAST" expenses from January 1, 2024 to October 31, 2024
ITEM EXPENSE
English Class $1,181.25
Leadership Development of $1,006.05
Open Heartland Women's
Group
Childcare for Adult $444.16
Programs
Open Heartland $567.53
Membership Program
Development
Folkloric Dance Group $1,725.62
Family Enrichment $2,977.42
Programs
Back to School Event $1,255.39
Total $9,157.42
Future Activities
We will be expanding our English Language classes due to increased interest from our
families by adding a second class spring semester. Four UI Social Work students will be
doing their practicums at Open Heartland and will launch a 2"d English Class session as well
as develop "cafecitas" for our families with English speaking community members allowing
them opportunities to practice what their learning in a safe, fun environment. In addition,
these students will start a Spanish Book Club enabling women to share their immigration
stories after reading of similar experiences from authors.
We are planning a Leadership Development All-Day Workshop that will be delivered in
Spanish by local community member Paola Jaramillo in the near future.
Page 4 of 4
Agenda Item#9
Inside Out Reentry Community
Social Justice Racial Equity Grant FY25
Due: November 1, 2024
Date Range: 6/1/24-10/16/24
Program and Activity Progress:
Inside Out Reentry Community (10)
received Social Justice Racial Equity } '
funding to expand our opportunities to R`, I f
provide art programming as well as have
art materials on hand for 10 members to
access outside of the art workshops. 10
T
has conducted five monthly art workshops
since June and began building our supply , 1�
�, A
of art materials . �f
Our workshops to date have covered the
following art techniques: popsicle stick art,
graffiti, comics, dioramas, and printmaking.
Between June and October, 14 individuals have attended our art workshops with three of those
people attending two or more. A member shared the following, "I enjoy coming to the art
classes. I've always been an artistic person; I know how to do many things. I had never done
printmaking before I came to the art workshop, and I really enjoyed it. It was great to learn
something new."
In October we increased our outreach
�. efforts about upcoming workshops, and
we now have facilitators booked for the
M next few months. As of October, our art
supply cabinet is available for members
to use when they visit our community
resource center. While this is later than
we originally anticipated, moving offices
�„;�C _ in late spring required some settling in
time.
Within this term, we solidified our grant
evaluation strategy and developed a survey for workshop participants that will be administered
in November 2024 and April 2025.
Next Steps:
We will continue to conduct our
►. - workshops and continue to stock
supplies for the art closet. We will be
targeting painting supplies in the coming
month. Upcoming workshops will
1A+ include printmaking, embroidery and
- mending, and popsicle stick art. We will
administer our first survey in November,
rA and a team member will summarize the
findings so that we can apply lessons
learned to future workshops and
programs.
J V Invoices:
-- We have included our financial report
and related receipts and invoices in a
separate file.
- r
g
Y
� �Iiir-
Agenda Item#9
FY23 Social Equity & Racial Justice Grant Report
CommUnity Crisis Services and Food Bank
November 1, 2024
Overview
The "Expanding Culturally Appropriate Food Options" project is intended to advance racial equity
and social justice by helping to maintain the cultural identity of individuals facing food insecurity
while also directly supporting minority-owned business enterprises within Iowa City. Our hope is
that refugees and the diverse people we serve will feel an increased sense of belonging and become
more comfortable connecting with us for services.
Project Successes
CommUnity has expanded its vendors of diverse foods this year, making the first purchase with
Racial Equity and Social Justice grant funds with local African farmers who sell through Field to
Family. These food producers include Theo's Produce, who works with the Feed Iowa First Equitable
Land Access Program to grow African vegetables and sells both locally and across the US. Other
farmers include Musenga Garden, Leticia Kakasa, and Yotemaisha who are Global Food Project
Producers. Buying from these farmers has not only expanded the availability of fresh produce, but
has ensured the availability of vegetables native to Africa that our clients likely couldn't find in the
grocery store.
Having more diverse foods supports stronger outcomes not only in CommUnity's main food bank,
but also at Mobile Pantry sites such as Pheasant Ridge. The Pheasant Ridge location, launched last
spring, is the only Mobile Pantry location on the west side of Iowa City and welcomes many
Sudanese community members each month. Pheasant Ridge has quickly become the most
well-attended Mobile Pantry site of the twelve neighborhoods and apartment complexes
CommUnity visits each month, so having diverse foods and vegetables that are familiar to clients is
important in the site's continued success.
Amount Spent
To-date $1,684.38 has been spent with Field to Family farmers for fresh produce for Food Bank
programs. Items purchased include cabbage, collard greens, African white eggplant, lenga lenga
(leafy green in the amaranth family used for stews), mboga buchungu (leafy vegetable sometimes
used to replace salt), matembele (sweet potato leaves), among several large cases of onions and
green peppers.
1
71.
Left: Matembele Middle: Lenga Lenga Right: African white eggplant
Next Steps
CommUnity continues to have a relationship with Acapulco Mexican Bakery and plans to place a
Large order later this month. The remaining funds will be reserved to increase the supply of
culturally-relevant foods for the Food Bank in the spring. We appreciate the Commission's continued
support of this project this year and your flexibility in allowing these funds to be used at a frequency
that allows more consistent availability throughout the year!
2
Agenda Item#9
` ESCUCHA Nil VOZ IO A Escucha Mi Voz lava
Fighting for Worker Justice 113 S Johnson St
m, and Immigration Reform Iowa City, IA 52240
November 1, 2024
Chair Doug Kollasch
Equity director Stephanie Bowers
Iowa City Human Fights Commission
RE.- Progress Report., FY24 Racial Equity and Social Justice Grant
Iowa City HRC Chair Kollasch and city equity director Bowers:
Thank you for the S 12,000 racial equity and social justice grant to help partially fund our
Refugee Housing and Migrant Health Services Project.
During the reporting period July 1 - October 30, the project provided 120 consecutive
days of permanent supportive housing to 45 immigrant working men, women, and
children. Twenty-two immigrant men, -women, and children were moved into our
permanent supportive housing program. Fifteen men, women, and children transitioned
out of the program and into their own stable and independent housing.
Also during the reporting period, seven children received mentoring services twice a
week.
In addition to housing, during the reporting period the project served an additional 377
immigrant workers with quality case management, lcgal aid, transportation, and other
services.
Services July 1-October 30
377 total
MI�Fb10��1
i "':Transportation
i
Medical
.L�
J.4%
Workplace issues
3.4�u
Community
Charity
Case Management
Legal
6 Micraloan payment
The transportation chart below shows a breakdown of rides given to irnmi ration,
biometric, passport, attorney, and medical appointments,
Transportation July 1-October 30
62 total
Laywar
D5M biometrics
Omaha court
Dental
Medical
Door knocking
4.9%
airport
04)
Chicago passport 6 Cedar Rapids ICE
The case management chart below highlights assistance 115 immigrant workers received
filling out inunigration paperwork, pre-screening for WIC and SNAP benefits, applying
for financial assistance for medical bills and more.
Case Management July 1-October 30
1 1 5 total
guardian annual report _ guardianship paperwork
1.-n4 1.7°6
passport fatos _ Online payment
3.5% _. °ro
wo�rrkf permit application contacted ICE about
2.V i�6 11 '.1 W7l
Financial aid made substance abuse
4.3% 1.10
= _
�!.
immigration change of
7% Food stamps
Change vfaddress ICE `r- 7 °o
Change of address
Online payment
.�� mail passportfotos
Phone contact B
"o Referral
[I Ql
The legal aid chart below shows that 120 immigrant workers received legal aid support
during the reporting period. The project cunncctcd 22 inunigrant workers with free legal
consultations with an irrnnigration attorney. and 62 immigrant workers received
assistance paying their legal bills.
Legal Aid July 1-October 30
120 total
Ankle bracelet _
deposiipayrnent
1.-ao 4
Guardlonship
i.
Local public defender f'
J.
OVVI court Monthly lawper payment
4.2N L1.f°do
Immigration consult
18.3%
Also during the reporting period, 13 1 min igrant workers came to the project office
seeking support for workplace issues, including 12 who had wage theft issues. Eight
wage theft cases were resolved and four remain in negotiation at this time.
Workplace issues July 1-October 30
13 total
Werp retation
Wage theft
CLO
....;
Also during the reporting period, the project served adults and children with 1,800
nutritious meals with fruits and vegetables. In addition, during the reporting period, 11
immigrant workers received a 0 percent micro-loan to help pay off debt, begin their
immigration cases, or buy a car to get to work.
Invoice of Expenses:
During the reporting period, organization revenue was $140,312.53. During the reporting
period, expenses were $77,721.20. Of the $12,000 HRC grant, $6,000 was spent in the
following categories:
Payroll and Professional Services - $4,200 (out of$46,872.90 total)
Program Expenses - $1,200 (out of$24,678.64 total)
Indirect Costs - $600 (out of$6,169.66 total)
Total HRC grant expended: $6,000
Total HRC grant unexpended: $6,000
This concludes our interim progress report. Thank you for the opportunity to partner with
the city and your commission on this vitally important work.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out,
David Goodner
Director, Escucha Mi Voz Iowa
113 S Johnson St
Iowa City, IA 52240
319-499-8929
RACIAL EQUITY • FY2025
Purpose(header)
The grant was established in 2017 to align with and support the City Council's Strategic
Plan on Racial Equity, Social Justice, and Human Rights. In 2024, the grant objectives
were revised to reflect the powers, structures, and duties of the City's Human Rights
Ordinance to support organizations or individuals whose work benefits people with low
incomes, as well as persons historically and or systematically marginalized.
Grant Period(header)
The grant period will run from DATE to DATE
Project Requirements(header)
Projects need to encompass one of the below priorities.
• Acknowledge or commemorate accurate cultural historical perspectives.
• Address one or more systemic inequities to provide disadvantaged and
marginalized populations with the skills to disrupt bias.
• Develop or launch programs that support training and education designed to
eliminate racial, religious, cultural, and other intergroup tensions in one of the
following areas: credit, education, employment, housing, public places.
• Implement educational public forum(s)that support one or more of the broad
range of topics included within the rubric of human rights in the areas of credit,
education, employment, housing, or public places.
• Create programs or initiatives that reduce disparities between communities.
• Launch programs or initiatives that address issues of structural and systemic
inequities.
Project Eligibility Criteria(header)
The project must be new(not existing before).
The project must take place in Iowa City.
The project duration must be from July 1, 2025, through June 20, 2026.
Ineligible Expenses and Activities(header)
• Operational Costs.
• Indirect or overhead costs.
• Loans, deficits, or debt reduction.
• Endowments.
i
• Scholarships.
• Fundraising events.
• Consultant fees or professional services.
• Reimbursement for items in a completed project or items already purchased.
• Events benefitting only members of the requesting organization (such as gala,
socials, etc.).
Applicant Eligibility Criteria(header)
• The organization must be physically located in Iowa City.
• Applicants awarded may not be government entities, public schools, private or
charter schools, or colleges and universities nor can funds awarded be used by
or to benefit these entities.
• Applicants cannot be for profit businesses or business associations.
• Organizations with annual budgets of over$2,000,000 are ineligible.
Funding Restrictions(header)
$100,000.00 has been allocated for fiscal year 2025.
• Project maximum request allowed is$10,000. Commented[SB1]:At minimum would allow for 10
• If past recipient of this grant within the last 2-years, maximum request restricted organizations).
to$2500.
Reviews and Funding Allocation(header)
The Iowa City Human Rights Commission will review all applications and make funding
recommendations to the City Council no later than DATE. Funding will be awarded by
DATE.
Grantee Responsibilities(header)
Grant funds are issued on a reimbursement basis, (typically issued 1-2 weeks)after
proper documentation is received.
Grantees may request exceptions to this funding process, but approval or denial of
such requests is at the City's discretion. A complete W-9 is required prior to any
payment.
If awarded, grantees will be required to:
•Submit a quarterly report(THREE DATES)to share a brief status update
on the project.
•Submit a final report 30 days following the completion of the project.
• Document the project through video or photos submitted with invoices
and final report to show progress and outcomes.
• Provide documentation of expenses (e.g., scanned copies of all expense
2
receipts)and submit an invoice for reimbursement.
• If grantee does not expend and properly document all funds awarded,
excess funds will revert to the City on July 1, 2026.
3
RACIAL EQUITY • APPLICATION FY25
Organizational Inf• •
Name of Organization
Street Address
City
Zip Code
How many years has the organization been in operation?
At
Name
Title
Phone er
Email
4
Project ...
1. Is this project new?
2. Provide a detailed description of the project.
3. How does this project:
• Acknowledge or commemorate accurate cultural historical perspectives.
• Address one or more systemic inequities to provide disadvantaged and
marginalized populations with the skills to disrupt bias.
• Develop or launch programs that support training and education designed to
eliminate racial, religious, cultural, and other intergroup tensions in one of the
following areas: credit, education,employment, housing, public places.
• Implement educational public forum(s)that support one or more of the broad
range of topics included within the rubric of human rights in the areas of credit,
education, employment, housing, or public places.
• Create programs or initiatives that reduce disparities between communities.
• Launch programs and initiatives that address issues of structural and systemic
inequities.
4. Does this project include any collaboration with other organizations?
5. Will the project continue after the grant funding ends?
If yes,what measures will be taken to ensure that it does?
Funding Amount Request
5. What is the organization's annual budget?
7. Amount of funding requested for project?
s. Please list all other funding sources,including the City of Iowa City,for this project.
9. Within the past three years,has the organization received any funding from the City of
Iowa City?
If so,for what and how much?
5
1. Complete the table below to itemize your budget for the project:
Item Brief Description Unit Cost Quantity Total
2. Provide a timeline narrative for how the grant money would be spent over the course
of a year.
Authorization
❑ I certify under the penalty of perjury and pursuant to the laws of the State of Iowa that the
preceding information is true and correct.
Signature
X
Sign your name above
Date `
Equity and Human Rights Office
410 E.Washington Street
Iowa City,IA 52240
Phone(319)356-5022
FAX(319)887-6213
EMAIL human rights@iowa-city.org
6
2025 Iowa City Racial Equity and Social Justice Grant Scoring Criteria
Grant proposals are scored by members of the Human Rights Commission. Members of this
team score applications individually, submit those scores to an overall scoring sheet, and then
meet, to discuss and award grants. Scoring provides the primary basis for awarding funding, but
funding is not guaranteed based on scores alone.
Applicants should try to be as comprehensive as possible in their proposal and provide accurate
contact information. If the grants team has questions before an award can be made,the City uses
the information on the application to connect with the applicant and work through any remaining
questions.
Grant Scoring Criteria Weight
Project is connected to and supports the powers, structures,and duties of the City's Human Rights
Ordinance. 20
Project supports s with the valuefinsi
ound 15
equity, social justi , and h n hts as * ntifi rateg lan.
Project will have a ntinuin im enefit m nit 15
Project budget is c e fe le. 15
Project outcomes are specs ic. 15
Applicant has demonstrated an ability to follow through on this project or has a 10
history of implementing similar activities
Project can be repeated, copied, shared,or modeled by others 10
Total score 100
LATE HANDOUTS - THE
FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS
WERE DISTRIBUTED AT
THE MEETING
Stefanie Bowers
From: Kelsey Callaghan <kelsey.callaghan@builtbycommunity.org>
Sent: Monday, November 25, 2024 3:21 PM
To: mariamgirlsclub@gmail.com; Eliabeth Shannon; Stefanie Bow ,
Subject: FY25 Racial Equity and Social Justice grant criteria feedback
r
RIS1{
**This email originated outside of the City of Iowa City email system. Please take extra care opening any links or
attachments. **
Hello, Dr. Liz, Viana, and Stefanie!
Dr. Liz &Viana--thank you again for taking the time to tour the Food Bank a couple of weeks ago, and for your
suggestions on ways to engage volunteers to support the language needs of our clients!
I wanted to reach out and share CommUnity's perspective on some of the proposed changes to the FY25 Racial Equity
and Social Justice grant program noted in the agenda and meeting packet for tomorrow's meeting.
As a grant writer, I appreciate that many aspects of this funding have been clarified, particularly the Project
Requirements and Eligibility sections. It is helpful when we decide whether to invest staff time to plan out a grant
project and write the grant to know definitively not just that our project is eligible, but that it aligns well with the
funder's priorities and has a decent chance of being funded. I can very much appreciate the shift to a maximum award
amount of$10,000, and that the Racial Equity and Social Justice Grant is an excellent opportunity for small, emerging,
and grassroots nonprofits to tap into funding that can support their work. However, I'd like to ask the Human Rights
Commission to reconsider the eligibility requirement that grant applicants have an organizational budget of$211VI or
less.
While CommUnity's budget of more than $111M is large compared to many organizations and it may appear that we
have tremendous resources at our disposal, the reality is that more than half of those funds are restricted to particular
services such as the 988 Crisis Helpline based on contracts specifically for that work and simply cannot be reallocated to
our more local services. In contrast, our hyper-local Food Bank, Financial Support, and Healing Prairie Farm services all
have significantly smaller budgets (each less than $21VI) and depend almost entirely on local community support.
The reality is that we must scrutinize the use of every dollar that comes in the door for these local programs-- do we use
it to meet the basic needs in the most cost-effective way in order to serve the most people, or do we invest it in new
projects or experimenting with innovative new ways of doing things that that may require more resources to get off the
ground?
Over the past two years, the Racial Equity and Social Justice grant has given CommUnity the courage to try a new way
of doing things--dedicating a portion of our food purchasing budget to culturally-familiar foods for our African and
Hispanic clients from local ethnic grocery stores-- leading to tremendous success and a growth in greater utilization of
the Food Bank by those populations.The higher cost of those food items from local businesses compared to our existing
distributors was a hurdle in trialling the project that this grant helped us overcome and lead to a tremendous growth in
understanding of the dietary needs of our clients that will influence our food bank offerings for years to come.
Beyond the food bank, we believe there are so many ways CommUnity could address additional disparities various
communities face when they're in the midst of food, financial, or emotional crisis, and we would appreciate the
opportunity to present another project in the next Racial Equity and Social Justice grant cycle. Alternatives to the
i
f '
• ■ CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
410 E. WASHINGTON ST
IOWA CITY, IA 52240-1826
PH: 319-356-5275
FAX., 319-356-5449
Good evening HRC,
My name is Eric Nieland, and I recently took over as the Sergeant, overseeing Community Outreach for
the Iowa City Police Department(ICPD). I am replacing Sergeant Kevin Bailey,who after 20+years with
ICPD, is retiring next month. Kevin will be missed,
I am an Iowa City native, attending Lemme Elementary (Go Leopards!),South East Junior High, and City
High School (Go Little Hawks!).
I've been in law enforcement for 15 years and have held numerous different positions such as: Patrol
Officer,Street Crimes Detective, Domestic Violence Detective, and General Crimes Detective. Before
coming to Community Outreach, I spent 2 years supervising the Late-Night Watch.
My wife and I have three young girls who keep us plenty busy, and take-up all our spare time.
I am looking forward to my new role with ICPD and I hope to continue the amazing work already being
done.
Sincerely,
n
` ESCUCHA MI VOZ IOWA Escucha Mi Voz Iowa
Fighting for Worker justice 113 S Johnson St
and Immigration Reform Iowa City, IA 52240
November 26, 2024
Chair Doug Kollasch
Equity Director Stefanie Bowers
Iowa City Human Rights Commission
RE: Proposed Changes to Racial Equity and Social Justice Grant
Iowa City Human Rights Commission Chair Doug Kollasch and City of Iowa City Equity
Director Stefanie Bowers:
This letter provides comment on your proposed changes to the Racial Equity and Social
Justice grant.
You propose reducing the grant award from $25,000 to $10,000, and only $2,500 for
prior recipients of the grant. Escucha Mi Voz Iowa members recommend you do not
reduce the amount of the maximum grant award below $25,000. Ten thousand dollars
may be adequate for very small organizations whose primary activity is educating the
public. However, such a small award would negatively impact medium-sized
organizations who actually provide professional and impactful services to marginalized
working-class residents of color.
You propose issuing grant funds on a reimbursement basis. Reimbursement grants
place an undue burden on community organizations to pay for costs upfront. Instead, we
recommend disbursing the grant award in two equal amounts every six months, and
require a completed interim report before disbursing the second amount. This
recommendation would allow your commission and the city to evaluate the effectiveness
of the funded program while offering more flexibility to the awarded organization.
You propose placing additional restrictions on eligible expenses and activities. The
proposed restrictions could limit the flexibility and effectiveness of funded organizations.