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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026/03/17 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - Human Rights Commission - RegularHuman rights commission meeting March 17, 2026 6:00 pm The St. Louis Park Human Rights Commission is meeting in person at St. Louis Park City Hall, 5005 Minnetonka Blvd in the Westwood Room on 3rd Floor. Members of the public can attend in person. Visit www.stlouispark.org/government/boards-commissions to view the agenda and reports. Agenda 1. Call to order 2. Approval of agenda 3. Approval of minutes a. Human Rights Commission Meeting minutes of January 27, 2026 4. Old business a. Workplan Approval and Council Advisory Communication form 5. New business a. Title VI/Language Access Policy Review b. Human Rights Award Application Review c. Neighborhood Grant Program – Federal Administration Action Trainings 6. Kudos 7. Work group/subcommittee updates a. New Community Resources 8. Chair and staff updates a. Robbinsdale HRC – Immigrants in Minnesota – How we Become Us b. Spring Appointment Process 2026 c. 2026 Check-In with city council d. Vision 4.0 9. Adjournment Future meeting/event dates:  April 21st  May 19th  June 16th  July 21st If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call Pat Coleman pcoleman@stlouispark.org or 952.292.4516) or the administration department at 952-924-2525. Human rights commission meeting January 27, 2026 6:00pm These minutes were created with the assistance of a generative AI transcript service, then edited and finalized by a staff person. If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call (Pat Coleman 952-924-2518) or the administration department at 952.924.2525. Meeting minutes Human rights commission Members present: Andrea Alvarez, Lee Conlife, Otoha Masaki, Isabel Anderson, Catherine Lawler Turnbull, Cynthia Tlaiye, Akilah Anderson, Members absent: Jackie Kay Guest: None Staff present: Pat Coleman, community engagement coordinator 1. Call to order – roll call – 6:02pm 2. Approval of agenda A motion was made by Commissioner Lawler Turnbull, seconded by Commissioner Alvarez, to approve the agenda of January 27, 2026 meeting. Motion carried 3. Approval of minutes A motion was made by Commissioner Lawler Turnbull, seconded by Commissioner Alvarez, to approve the meeting minutes of the December 16, 2025 meeting. Motion carried 4. Old business a. Workplan approval and Council Advisory Communication form Mr. Coleman presented the work plan, noting it was similar to what was discussed at the previous meeting with minor wordsmithing on the fourth work plan item. He explained that the fifth item was left open for city council to add anything if needed. The next step would be preparing an advisory communications form to council for approval of the work plan. Mr. Coleman indicated the work plan would likely be presented at a February 17th study session and then moved to regular consent at the following meeting for council vote. All commissioners voted in favor of approving the work plan and moving forward with the advisory communications form to council. b. Human Rights Award Mr. Coleman reported that only two submissions have been received for the Human Rights Award with about a month remaining until the deadline. The goal is to exceed last year's submissions of three or four. Human rights commission meeting Commissioners discussed strategies for increasing submissions, including posting on social media and distributing flyers. Commissioner Alvarez mentioned already posting flyers at the library on the Day of Racial Healing. Mr. Coleman indicated he would send email blasts to city contacts and provide printed materials for commissioners to distribute. The city will also post on social media by the end of the week. The review of submissions will occur at the March meeting with presentation planned for April. 5. New business a. Federal Agents in SLP i. Mr. Coleman provided an extensive briefing on the city's response to recent federal immigration enforcement activities. He shared the city's federal actions updates webpage, which includes the official city statement, information about joining other suburban communities in response efforts, frequently asked questions, and community resources including legal assistance. Commissioners shared their personal experiences and community observations during the recent immigration enforcement activities. Commissioner Lawler Turnbull described feeling anxious even as a white person when delivery trucks arrived at her home. Commissioner Tlaiye recounted having a panic attack at Michael's when a balloon popped during the tense period. Commissioners noted the widespread trauma being experienced in the community and praised Minnesota's leadership in showing how to handle such situations. The discussion covered various community responses including business closures in solidarity, economic impacts on local establishments like Mexico City Cafe, and the organizing efforts through Signal chat networks for rapid response. Commissioners discussed the challenge of staying informed about protests and mutual aid efforts while maintaining security from federal surveillance. Mr. Coleman asked commissioners to share any additional resources they encounter, as the city continues updating its community resources page. Commissioners suggested adding information about mental health support, guidance for talking to children about the situation, and donation opportunities for those unable to participate in direct action. The group discussed the police department's role, clarifying that while ICE can request crowd control assistance, the police department's first priority is protecting city residents and they operate within existing policy guidelines. Commissioners raised questions about whether the city could restrict hiring former ICE agents, which Mr. Coleman indicated would need to be reviewed by HR for legal implications. Commissioners emphasized the strong community solidarity they've witnessed, with neighbors, schools, and organizations reaching out to Human rights commission meeting support affected families. They noted both the Minnesota response being recognized nationally and the targeting of cities that voted against the current administration. 6. Kudos Commissioners expressed appreciation for community members stepping up during difficult times, including those providing rides and support when people felt unsafe driving or leaving their homes. 7. Work group/subcommittee updates a. New Community Resources Mr. Coleman reported that Commissioner Anderson has connected with the Jewish Family Center, which is accepting donations and coordinating grocery deliveries to address food insecurity in the community. A meeting is being arranged to gather more information for sharing with the broader community. 8. Chair and staff updates a. Vision 4.0 Updates Mr. Coleman provided an update on the Vision 4.0 process, reporting that after completing community engagement and reporting to city council in December, the work has entered the second phase focusing on strategic priorities and implementation planning. A new consultant group held a kickoff meeting with city council on Monday, and the process includes individual council member meetings and a council retreat in February. The goal is to adopt strategic priorities by March 2026, after which staff will develop the implementation plan. b. National Day of Racial Healing Recap The National Day of Racial Healing event was held the previous Monday with strong attendance. Despite a last-minute location change from Westwood to a new venue, approximately 90 out of 100 registered participants attended. Commissioner Alvarez praised the healing exercises and community conversations, particularly noting the valuable interactions with SOAR students and diverse community members including Greg from the nature center. A participant from London noted the cultural difference of seeing white folks participating in racial healing work, which he found surprising compared to similar events in London that typically only attracted people of color. Commissioners suggested adding programming for children and families, as many parents wanted to bring their kids but the content was more appropriate for older children and adults. Mr. Coleman indicated he would take this feedback to the planning committee for future consideration. The event featured healing activities led by Zara Healing Group from Minneapolis, with the community conversations being the most well- Human rights commission meeting received portion as designed to empower participants to continue such discussions beyond the event. 9. Adjournment – 7:14 p.m. Board and Commission Annual work plan Presented to council: March 2, 2026 Approved by council: March 2, 2026 1 2026 Human Rights Commission Workplan 1 Initiative name: Human Rights Award Initiative type: ☒ Staff support (review project, policy or program and provide feedback) ☐ Independent research project ☒ Gather community feedback ☐ Lead community event Initiative origin: ☐ Applicant-initiated ☐ Staff-initiated ☐ Commission-initiated ☒ Council-initiated Legally required (e.g. response to Legislative changes or Judicial decisions)? ☐ Yes ☒ No Commissioner lead(s) name(s): All members will participate. If joint commission initiative, list other board or commission: Is this an established work group? ☐ Yes ☒ No Initiative description: Together with city staff, the HRC will lead the Human Rights Award by setting guidelines, sharing information, reviewing entries, and presenting the award. Strategic Priority: ☐ 1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3 ☐ 4 ☒ 5 ☐ N/A Deliverable: ☐ Research report ☒ Summary of community input ☐ Other ☒ N/A Target completion date: Ongoing, yearly initiative This section to be completed by staff: Council request (if applicable): ☐ Review and comment or reply ☐ Review and decide ☒ Informational only – no response needed Budget required: Funding for award purchase Staff support required: Staff liaison, communications department Liaison comments: Nominations for the 2025 Human Rights Awards opened January 5, 2026 and close February 28, 2026. The commission will review applications in March of 2026, and present the award to it’s winner in April of 2026. Board and Commission Annual work plan 2 2 Initiative name: Support REI related projects and initiatives Initiative type: ☒ Staff support (review project, policy or program and provide feedback) ☐ Independent research project ☐ Gather community feedback ☐ Lead community event Initiative origin: ☐ Applicant-initiated ☒ Staff-initiated ☐ Commission-initiated ☐ Council-initiated Legally required (e.g. response to Legislative changes or Judicial decisions)? ☐ Yes ☒ No Commissioner lead(s) name(s): All members will participate. If joint commission initiative, list other board or commission: Is this an established work group? ☐ Yes ☐ No Initiative description: The HRC will support city staff as needed by reviewing projects and policies and offering feedback to ensure successful outcomes. Strategic Priority: ☐ 1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3 ☐ 4 ☒ 5 ☐ N/A Deliverable: ☐ Research report ☒ Summary of community input ☐ Other ☒ N/A Target completion date: Ongoing This section to be completed by staff: Council request (if applicable): ☐ Review and comment or reply ☐ Review and decide ☒ Informational only – no response needed Budget required: None Staff support required: Communication from staff liaison about opportunities for involvement in various projects and initiatives Liaison comments: Commissioners have been made aware that there are multiple projects on the horizon where their involvement will be necessary. Board and Commission Annual work plan 3 3 Initiative name: Golden Valley Pride Festival Partnership Initiative type: ☒ Staff support (review project, policy or program and provide feedback) ☐ Independent research project ☐ Gather community feedback ☐ Lead community event Initiative origin: ☐ Applicant-initiated ☐ Staff-initiated ☒ Commission-initiated ☐ Council-initiated Legally required (e.g. response to Legislative changes or Judicial decisions)? ☐ Yes ☒ No Commissioner lead(s) name(s): All members will participate. If joint commission initiative, list other board or commission: Is this an established work group? ☐ Yes ☒ No Initiative description: In partnership with Golden Valley and the REI division, the HRC will continue to support their ongoing efforts to a successful Pride Event. Strategic Priority: ☐ 1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3 ☐ 4 ☒ 5 ☐ N/A Deliverable: ☐ Research report ☒ Summary of community input ☐ Other ☒ N/A Target completion date: This section to be completed by staff: Council request (if applicable): ☐ Review and comment or reply ☐ Review and decide ☒ Informational only – no response needed Budget required: None Staff support required: Communication from staff liaison on what is needed to help execute the event. Liaison comments: With the REI division as the lead of the partnership, there has been conversation as the planning of the Golden Valley Pride Festival is on the horizon that will be communicated with HRC members as it moves forward. Board and Commission Annual work plan 4 4 Initiative name: HRC Awareness Initiative type: ☐ Staff support (review project, policy or program and provide feedback) ☐ Independent research project ☒ Gather community feedback ☐ Lead community event Initiative origin: ☐ Applicant-initiated ☐ Staff-initiated ☒ Commission-initiated ☐ Council-initiated Legally required (e.g. response to Legislative changes or Judicial decisions)? ☐ Yes ☐ No Commissioner lead(s) name(s): All members will participate If joint commission initiative, list other board or commission: Is this an established work group? ☐ Yes ☒ No Initiative description: This initiative focuses on strengthening the commission’s visibility and building deeper connections within the community. Strategic Priority: ☐ 1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3 ☐ 4 ☒ 5 ☐ N/A Deliverable: ☐ Research report ☒ Summary of community input ☐ Other ☒ N/A Target completion date: This section to be completed by staff: Council request (if applicable): ☐ Review and comment or reply ☐ Review and decide ☒ Informational only – no response needed Budget required: None Staff support required: Communication from staff liaison to share opportunities to spread awareness of the commission. Liaison comments: Commissioners have been exploring opportunities to spread more awareness about commissions, specifically their own. There has been discussion around old opportunities to spread awareness and how to transition those into 2026. Board and Commission Annual work plan 5 5 Initiative name: Initiative type: ☐ Staff support (review project, policy or program and provide feedback) ☐ Independent research project ☐ Gather community feedback ☐ Lead community event Initiative origin: ☐ Applicant-initiated ☐ Staff-initiated ☐ Commission-initiated ☐ Council-initiated Legally required (e.g. response to Legislative changes or Judicial decisions)? ☐ Yes ☐ No Commissioner lead(s) name(s): If joint commission initiative, list other board or commission: Is this an established work group? ☐ Yes ☐ No Initiative description: Strategic Priority: ☐ 1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3 ☐ 4 ☒ 5 ☐ N/A Deliverable: ☐ Research report ☐ Summary of community input ☐ Other ☒ N/A Target completion date: This section to be completed by staff: Council request (if applicable): ☐ Review and comment or reply ☐ Review and decide ☒ Informational only – no response needed Budget required: Staff support required: Liaison comments: Board and Commission Annual work plan 6 Initiative Origin Definitions  Applicant-initiated – Project initiated by 3rd party (statutory boards)  Staff-initiated – Project initiated by staff liaison or other city staff  Commission-initiated – Project initiated by the board or commission  Council-initiated – Project tasked to a board or commission by the city council Strategic Priorities 1. St. Louis Park is committed to being a leader in racial equity and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for all. 2. St. Louis Park is committed to continue to lead in environmental stewardship. 3. St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood oriented development. 4. St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably. 5. St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build social capital through community engagement Modifications  Work plans may be modified, to add or delete items, in one of three ways:  Work plans can be modified by mutual agreement during a joint work session.  If immediate approval is important, the board or commission can work with their staff liaison to present a modified work plan for city council approval at a council meeting.  The city council can direct a change to the work plan at their discretion. Board and Commission Annual work plan 7 Future ideas Initiatives that are being considered by the board or commission but not proposed in the annual work plan. Council approval is needed if the board or commission decides they would like to amend a work plan. Initiative Comments Title VI and Language Access Plan Mid-Progress Report Presented by: Calyptus Consulting Group, Inc. George Harris February 17, 2026 Purpose of the Title VI Plan •To align with the strategic priority to be a committed leader in racial equity and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for all. •To update the city’s current Title VI Plan (2022) to fulfill assurances for federal grants/funding; will be updated in three years (2029) •Provide a tool that puts the City’s commitment into practice – moving from saying what the City values to doing the work of eliminating discrimination •Address requirements for language access and assistance •Ensure that programs and activities are provided consistently across the City •Proactive governance – identify discrimination before harm is caused, leading to better outcomes Who we are: Calyptus Consulting Group, Inc. •Small business incorporated in Massachusetts in 1995 •Subject matter experts in Title VI, federal grants, and civil rights •Provide services to federal, state and local municipalities •Have worked in Minneapolis (Met Council, Housing Authority) •Have provided Title VI assistance to over 300 public agencies Elements of a Title VI Plan Title VI elements that affect all recipients receiving federal funding: •Assurances •Organization and Staffing •Title VI Notice and Postings •Complaint Procedures; Complaint Form •Four Factor Analysis; Language Assistance Plan •Staff Training •Public Participation •Data Collection and Reporting •Subrecipient and Contractor Monitoring •Inclusion of MBE/WBE program •Compliance/Enforcement •Program Review Procedures Work Completed •Project Term: November 2025 – March 2026 •Reviewed all federal grant obligations for the City •Interviewed and collected information from all departments •Benchmarked Title VI Plans of other cities in MN •Built upon the current City-wide Title VI Plan •Create a sustainable approach to Title VI management Purpose of Interviews/Data Collection •Addressed any questions about Title VI •Collected information on current practices related to publishing information, public participation, translating materials, and processing complaints •Learned experiences in relation to Title VI •Received recommendations on Title VI plan implementation •Gained information on how to make the program more effective Conducted Benchmarking to Find Examples of Effective Practices •Benchmarking on 18 cities included: •Title VI plans •Language Assistance Plans •Title VI implementation mechanisms to ensure compliance Recommended changes to existing Title VI Plan Area Recommendations Extensive list of federal statutes, executive orders, and state authorities. Streamlined list emphasizing core Title VI statutory and regulatory authorities with flexibility to adapt to federal changes. Title VI Notice and Postings Have one notice for all programs, and identified postings in all buildings/offices offering services Complaint Procedures Develop an updated procedure for all complaints; City will resolve complaints Language Access Plan Provided input to draft City Language Access plan; Identified primary language languages for translation; use Language line resources General description of assurance requirements Expanded section citing U.S. DOT Order 1050.2A, inclusion of sample assurance clause, and clarification of executed assurances Performance Measures New section establishing qualitative and quantitative measures to evaluate Title VI effectiveness. Recommended changes to existing Title VI Plan (cont.) Area Recommendations Staff training Training requirements were expanded and formalized to specify onboarding and periodic refresher training, with targeted training based on employee roles and responsibilities (e.g., planning, public engagement, contracting, service delivery). Public Participation Incorporated Engage and Community Engagement Guide Data Collection and Reporting Add data collection and outcome for capital planning, right of way, contracting, planning, public engagement, and citywide services Program Review Include periodic reviews for evaluation of policies, language assistance, complaints, procedures, and public participation Primary program area reviews were expanded and clarified to explicitly include citywide service and operational programs, such as Boards and Commissions, Training, Housing, Solid Waste and Recycling, Youth Programs, Community Policing, Communications and Technology, and Public Works Next Steps •February – March 2026 •Continue to review potential changes to the current Title VI Plan, Language Access Plan, and benchmark components of Title VI •End of March 2026 •Final recommendation report will be provided to staff Questions? Human Rights Award nomination form – 2025 Submitted on 20 January 2026, 11:37am Receipt number 7 Related form version 0 First name Abby Last name Cooper Address Organization affiliation A Book of My Own Daytime phone Evening phone Email Person or organization being nominated First name Amie Last name Bergersen Address Organization affiliation Daytime phone Evening phone Email Nominator information Describe how the nominee’s activities have contributed in uplifting human rights, justice, equity and inclusion in the community? The mission and vision of "A Book of My Own" states that: Every child, regardless of income, race, or region deserves access to books in their home. We know that having age-appropriate books at home is the single greatest predictor of academic success. (Education World) Reason for nomination 1 of 2 However, 61% of low income Minnesotan children are going to bed without a book to read at night because of lack of transportation and funds. (Reading Literacy in the United States) That’s where we come in. A Book of My Own supports Minnesota families by shipping high quality books, tailored to the children’s interests, directly to their residences completely free of charge. Let’s work together to ensure all children in Minnesota thrive with the benefits of book ownership! Abby and her organization are tireless in their pursuit of recognizing the humanity of every child and family, ensuring that kids have access to the materials they deserve, and caring for individuals. Almost daily I hear about the work she is doing, trying to match books with kids interests (often in various languages), raising funds to cover shipping costs, and debating best ways to reach more families. When and where did the contributions take place? Is the activity or program ongoing? Please describe. A Book of My Own supports Minnesota families by shipping high quality books, tailored to the children’s interests, directly to their residences completely free of charge. This is ongoing and fluid based on community needs. Most recently, books have been delivered to schools to distribute to families staying home due to safety concerns in the community. These books were mostly Spanish-language books, but some were English as well. They focused their efforts on supporting the Annunciation community after the shooting in August. And consistently they mail packages to families across the state. Since September 2023, they have sent more than 10,462 books to families in 220 cities throughout Minnesota. Who was the main beneficiary of the nominee’s efforts?Children and families throughout Minnesota Provide any additional information about the nominee that will help the human rights commission make their selection. Abby cares deeply for all people, especially children. She wants to ensure that children are celebrated and recognized for who they currently are. Her team works to ensure that packages are timely, high-quality, and incredibly aligned with student interests so that the books are valuable and exciting. List any other people, along with their phone numbers, who would support this nomination. Caryl Mousseaux - Eliana Lane - If you need additional space to explain your nomination and answers to the above questions, attach your responses here. Demographic information 2 of 2 Human Rights Award nomination form – 2025 Submitted on 29 January 2026, 9:14am Receipt number 8 Related form version 0 First name Angel Food Last name Bakery Address Organization affiliation Daytime phone Evening phone Email Person or organization being nominated First name Vanessa Last name Davis Address Organization affiliation Daytime phone Evening phone Email Nominator information Describe how the nominee’s activities have contributed in uplifting human rights, justice, equity and inclusion in the community? Angel Food has always been a safe space for everyone in our community. They have a very diverse staff who are all super friendly, they have a welcoming space for families and neighbors to connect, and they have spoken out to the atrocities our community has recently been facing. Reason for nomination 1 of 2 When and where did the contributions take place? Is the activity or program ongoing? Please describe. Since they opened, Angel Food has been a great addition to our community. It is a fun space to walk to on the weekends, gather with other neighbors and families, and recently they have stood-up to voice their resistance of what is taking place in Minneapolis and the surrounding communities. Who was the main beneficiary of the nominee’s efforts?The entire St. Louis Park community. I recently saw an event taking place there called Neighbors for Neighbors, where people were gathering to write cards and letters of encouragement to people impacted by the fear and isolation of immigration enforcement. They always seem to be open to being a safe space for members of our community who are organizing and trying to help out. Provide any additional information about the nominee that will help the human rights commission make their selection. I just really respect small businesses who are already struggling in this post- covid world to step-up and speak out at times when it can be scary to do so. I think that Angel Food would be a worthy selection for the Human Rights award and I hope they are around a long time here in SLP. List any other people, along with their phone numbers, who would support this nomination. Kyle Davis Andrea Alvarez Jenny Ritter If you need additional space to explain your nomination and answers to the above questions, attach your responses here.   Demographic information 2 of 2 Human Rights Award nomination form – 2025 Submitted on 1 January 2026, 9:50am Receipt number 4 Related form version 0 First name Anne Last name Seltz Address Organization affiliation Parkshore Neighbors Daytime phone Evening phone Email Person or organization being nominated First name Lynette Last name Dumalag Address Organization affiliation Former St. Louis Park City Council Daytime phone Evening phone Email Nominator information Describe how the nominee’s activities have contributed in uplifting human rights, justice, equity and inclusion in the community? Neighbors at Park Shore have been concerned about Federal Administrations impacts on their neighbors, friends, and caretakers at Park Shore. They have highly visible in St. Louis Park, organizing protests. Reason for nomination 1 of 2 When and where did the contributions take place? Is the activity or program ongoing? Please describe. Protests and organizing have been ongoing. The most recent one was on November 6th, No Kings Rally. Video link by videographer SLP resident, Gary Bingner, is here: https://vimeo.com/1128541479? share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci Who was the main beneficiary of the nominee’s efforts?The entire community and fulfilled a few of the city's current Strategic Priorities: St. Louis Park is committed to being a leader in racial equity and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for all. St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build social capital through community engagement. Provide any additional information about the nominee that will help the human rights commission make their selection. What is amazing to me, is the organization of these residents. They reached out to me about resources that are available - how they can help immigrants that they may or may not know in the community. List any other people, along with their phone numbers, who would support this nomination. Betsy Baker: Gary Bingner: If you need additional space to explain your nomination and answers to the above questions, attach your responses here.   Demographic information 2 of 2 Human Rights Award nomination form – 2025 Submitted on 26 February 2026, 1:13pm Receipt number 13 Related form version 0 First name Diane Last name Jackson Address Organization affiliation PTOs of the St. Louis Park School District Daytime phone Evening phone Email Person or organization being nominated First name Virginia Last name Mancini Address Organization affiliation St. Louis Park School Board, Chair Daytime phone Evening phone Email Nominator information Describe how the nominee’s activities have contributed in uplifting human rights, justice, equity and inclusion in the community? During Operation Metro Surge, the St. Louis Park schools' PTOs stepped up to take care of students and families of our immigrant families who were too afraid to go out in public, including going to school. The organized mutual aid, ride shares, supervision and so much more. They came to be a living definition of community. Reason for nomination 1 of 2 When and where did the contributions take place? Is the activity or program ongoing? Please describe. The mutual aid and rideshares began in late Nov. and early December, but became more organized and more operational into January. Even today, Feb. 28th, families are still fearful of coming to school, so the PTOs' mutual aid operations are still active. Who was the main beneficiary of the nominee’s efforts?The primary beneficiaries are students and families. However, our school district is now stronger, more caring and more connected because of their efforts. Without them, it would have been impossible for the district to meet the needs of our students and their families. Provide any additional information about the nominee that will help the human rights commission make their selection. The organization of their efforts is so literally grassroots. There is no way for me to adequately name every individual who helped the district through this nightmare. Therefore, I am nominating the PTOs of EACH school as representative of ALL the parents who came together to help us. Without the organizing efforts of the PTOs, people would not have known how to help or how to get help. List any other people, along with their phone numbers, who would support this nomination. Brenna Batres -PSI parent who organized most of the mutual aid. Aquila PTO Peter Hobart PTO PSI PTO Susan Lindgren PTO SLP Middle School Site Council SLP HS PEAC (Parent Engagement and Advisory Council) I do not know the name of every PTO president and their phone number. However, if you are seriously considering giving them the award, I will get the name and number of each PTO president. I hope you will give them your serious consideration. This was 100% volunteer organized and lead. The district owes them such a huge debt of gratitude. If you need additional space to explain your nomination and answers to the above questions, attach your responses here. Demographic information 2 of 2 Human Rights Award nomination form – 2025 Submitted on 26 February 2026, 10:09am Receipt number 12 Related form version 0 First name Kayleen Last name Beccard Address Organization affiliation Daytime phone Evening phone Email Person or organization being nominated First name Carrie Last name Noble Address Organization affiliation Daytime phone Evening phone Email Nominator information Describe how the nominee’s activities have contributed in uplifting human rights, justice, equity and inclusion in the community? Kay Beccard was a long term substitute teacher in my childrens 3 year old preschool class. Three years old is when lots of disctinctions arise between children and "others". Kay took the time to support parents navigating children's new realizations of how they looked different or learned differently from their peers. She worked with the administration and para professional staff to change how they worked with students so they could Reason for nomination 1 of 2 better focus on how to understand and celebrate differences in race, ethnicity, ability, etc. She also offered activities and learnings we could work through at home. When and where did the contributions take place? Is the activity or program ongoing? Please describe. This took place in Central Early Learning 3 year old preschool class during the 2024/2025 academic year. Who was the main beneficiary of the nominee’s efforts?Her students, including my two children. This care and education ripples out to families and communities. Provide any additional information about the nominee that will help the human rights commission make their selection. Kay is a champion of public school education and active parent at Aquila Elementary. She leads many activities in the PTO and is always ready to support students and families. List any other people, along with their phone numbers, who would support this nomination. Laura Mitchell Devan Benjamin If you need additional space to explain your nomination and answers to the above questions, attach your responses here. Demographic information 2 of 2 Human Rights Award nomination form – 2025 Submitted on 19 January 2026, 8:14pm Receipt number 6 Related form version 0 First name Philip Last name Shoultz Address Organization affiliation Vocal Essence, SOTA Daytime phone Evening phone Email Person or organization being nominated First name Julie Last name Scroggins Address Organization affiliation None Daytime phone Evening phone Email Nominator information Describe how the nominee’s activities have contributed in uplifting human rights, justice, equity and inclusion in the community? Philip works with Vocal Essence and started a high school choir 9 years ago with the hopes of connecting high school students and giving them a voice which will help them build their confidence and leadership abilities. Their website states their purpose much better than I can, this is information from their website: "The choir is made up of singers who present music ranging from classical to hip-hop, they use creativity and collaboration to build an Reason for nomination 1 of 2 accepting community, equipped with the skills to lead social change in our society." More information can be found here: https://www.vocalessence.org/who-we-are/performing- ensembles/vocalessence-sota/ Philip also organized, promoted and conducted a Martin Luther King, Jr. event at Westwood Lutheran Church this year. The concert included the SOTA choir, Spoken Word artists, Nadia Mohamed-the mayor of St Louis Park, and Dr.Carlondrea Hines-the Superintendent of St Louis Park schools. The well-attended event was hopeful, powerful and enthusiastically received. When and where did the contributions take place? Is the activity or program ongoing? Please describe. The MLK, Jr. concert was presented January 18th. The event also included a service project to create Blessing Bags to share with those in need. The SOTA choir performs many events throughout the Twin Cities community. Who was the main beneficiary of the nominee’s efforts?Senior High School students from a diverse backgrounds in area schools. These students will be building on their skills and voices which will impact their lives and the lives they touch. And our community benefits from their performances and being inspired by their voices. Provide any additional information about the nominee that will help the human rights commission make their selection. Philip is a connector and creates music to promote connections, peace, and hope. He does this in a variety of ways by connecting with artists, students, and peacemakers to spread this message. List any other people, along with their phone numbers, who would support this nomination. I haven't contacted any of these people, but I think they would agree that Philip is a change agent: Pastor Sarah Scherschligt: , J.D. Steele: Philip is also part of Vocal Essence and Philip Brunelle would support Philip's impactful contributions to our community. If you need additional space to explain your nomination and answers to the above questions, attach your responses here. Demographic information 2 of 2 Human Rights Award nomination form – 2025 Submitted on 23 February 2026, 12:09pm Receipt number 10 Related form version 0 First name Saul Last name Eugene Address Organization affiliation Daytime phone Evening phone Email Person or organization being nominated First name Rachel Last name Ottoson Address Organization affiliation Youth Specialist at The Link / Volunteer at STEP Daytime phone Evening phone Email Nominator information Describe how the nominee’s activities have contributed in uplifting human rights, justice, equity and inclusion in the community? My husband, Saul, has been leading the charge to organize the community in the resistance against ICE since the first week of December 2025. He has not only responded to countless reports and incidents of ICE in St Louis Park, putting his body on the line to protect our vulnerable neighbors, but has also played a significant role in organizing rapid response, patrolling, and mutual aid for our community. He, along with myself and others, helped Reason for nomination 1 of 2 create the SLP signal chats, has organized patrollers for bus stops and other high risk/targeted areas in the community, has helped hundreds of residents and teachers in the district get educated as legal observers, and also helped create a project where the school district’s PTO and STEP work together to pack and deliver groceries to families affected by operation metro surge. This is all in addition to serving as Vice Chair of the Police oversight commission striving to ensure our city law enforcement is upholding justice and human rights, as well as the SLP community foundation board working to make sure that the schools and kids in our community are having their needs met. With the plethora of blatant constitutional and human rights violations that ICE has been committing while kidnapping and holding our neighbors without due process, as well as his other work, Saul has contributed significantly in uplifting and preserving human rights, justice, equity, and inclusion in St Louis Park. When and where did the contributions take place? Is the activity or program ongoing? Please describe. Saul has been an active contributor uplifting human rights and justice in SLP for years, but has significantly increased his contributions since December when operation metro surge first began and his efforts are still ongoing. Who was the main beneficiary of the nominee’s efforts?The main beneficiaries of Saul’s most recent efforts have been vulnerable families and kids within the SLP community and school district that have been feeling the impacts of ICE’s presence in the Twin Cities. Provide any additional information about the nominee that will help the human rights commission make their selection. Saul grew up in St Louis Park and, after college, chose to move back here to start our family. As someone who grew up in an unsafe home, things like sports and the summer parks programs made a huge impact on his quality of life as a kid himself. He loves his community and neighbors and strives to return the love and support to the community that supported him and kept him safe when he himself was vulnerable. List any other people, along with their phone numbers, who would support this nomination. Isabelle Anderson - Lynette Dumalag - Larry Kraft - Paul Bauduin - Jeremy and Angela Anderson - Nadia Mohamed - If you need additional space to explain your nomination and answers to the above questions, attach your responses here. Demographic information 2 of 2 Human Rights Award nomination form – 2025 Submitted on 25 February 2026, 8:26am Receipt number 11 Related form version 0 First name Virginia Last name Mancini Address Organization affiliation Daytime phone Evening phone Email Person or organization being nominated First name Daniel Last name Stockton Address Organization affiliation Daytime phone Evening phone Email Nominator information Describe how the nominee’s activities have contributed in uplifting human rights, justice, equity and inclusion in the community? Ginny is the first to champion human rights in the community. Whether it’s standing up for students or LGBTQ rights, she is always being a cause. She rallies local people and is always available to answer questions or rally people for an event. Reason for nomination 1 of 2 When and where did the contributions take place? Is the activity or program ongoing? Please describe. Just recently Ginny was involved in the peaceful protests about immigration. From walking in the protests to helping organize and participate in local rallies Ginny was instrumental in keeping the passion and reasons for keeping the spotlight on injustices. Who was the main beneficiary of the nominee’s efforts?Ginny has championed support for a lot of causes. I know she has long been a supporter of LBGTQ rights and more recently the immigration population that was target by ICE in Minneapolis. Provide any additional information about the nominee that will help the human rights commission make their selection. I think you are all familiar with Ginny and her work. I know she served on the HRC and this is something she is very passionate about. I don’t know anyone quite as passionate about the HRC and standing up for people and injustices than Ginny List any other people, along with their phone numbers, who would support this nomination. Danielle Stockton Nicole Douglass Patricia Serie If you need additional space to explain your nomination and answers to the above questions, attach your responses here. Demographic information 2 of 2 Human Rights Award nomination form – 2025 Submitted on 14 February 2026, 11:05am Receipt number 9 Related form version 0 First name Yolanda Last name Farris Address Organization affiliation City Council Daytime phone Evening phone Email Person or organization being nominated First name Linda Last name Trummer Address Organization affiliation SLP resident, 40 years of community service, former HR Award winner Daytime phone Evening phone Email Nominator information Describe how the nominee’s activities have contributed in uplifting human rights, justice, equity and inclusion in the community? The nominee has uplifted human rights, justice, equity, and inclusion by stepping into public leadership not as a seasoned politician, but as a Black woman determined to represent a community that had long been underserved and overlooked. Despite having no prior political experience, she brought lived experience, cultural insight, and deep moral clarity to her role as a city council member. She has worked to amplify the voices of Reason for nomination 1 of 3 residents who historically felt unheard, ensuring that policy conversations include the perspectives of immigrants, families of color, low‑income households, and those facing systemic barriers. Through active listening, transparent communication, and a commitment to unity, she has built trust across diverse groups and fostered understanding where division once existed. Her leadership has opened doors for equitable access to resources, strengthened community belonging, and modeled what justice‑centered governance looks like when courage and compassion guide decision‑making. When and where did the contributions take place? Is the activity or program ongoing? Please describe. Her contributions began when she was elected to the City Council in SLP, stepping into office in 2023 to represent one of the most diverse and historically undermet neighborhoods in the community. From the moment she took her seat, she committed herself to building trust, strengthening representation, and ensuring that residents who had long felt invisible finally had a voice in local government. Her work has taken place directly within the community—at neighborhood meetings, cultural gatherings, tenant forums, youth programs, and city‑wide policy discussions—where she consistently shows up to listen, learn, and advocate. The impact of her leadership is not confined to a single project or moment. It is an ongoing, evolving effort rooted in daily engagement and long‑term relationship‑building. She continues to champion equitable access to city services, promote inclusive decision‑making, and bridge divides between residents and city leadership. Her presence on the council has become a catalyst for unity, understanding, and justice, and her work remains active and deeply needed as the community grows and changes. Who was the main beneficiary of the nominee’s efforts?The primary beneficiaries of the nominee’s efforts have been the residents of St. Louis Park historically undermet. This includes families of color, immigrant communities, renters, youth, elders, and long‑time residents who had often felt unheard in city decision‑making. By bringing their lived experiences into policy conversations, she ensured that those who had been overlooked finally had a voice at the table. Her work also benefited the broader city by fostering greater understanding, unity, and equitable access to services. As she built bridges across cultural, racial, and economic lines, the entire community gained from a more inclusive, justice‑centered approach to governance. Provide any additional information about the nominee that will help the human rights commission make their selection. Yolanda works for Missions Inc. as a resident advocate in St. Louis Park. Formerly, she worked in a comparable position with the now‑defunct Perspectives, Inc. Anyone who thinks she is unworthy of this recognition doesn’t fully understand the depth of her service, the courage it takes to stand with people in crisis, or the quiet, consistent leadership she brings to some of the most marginalized members of our community. Yolanda shows up where others hesitate, listens when others turn away, and advocates with a strength rooted in lived experience and compassion. Her work is not just a job—it is a lifeline for the women and families she supports, and a testament to what true community care looks like. List any other people, along with their phone numbers, who would support this nomination. Because of my illness, I have not had a recent opportunity to poll others, but based on my experience with this population in our community, and from my volunteer work with Yolanda, I would have to say that she is loved and respected by those members of the St. Louis Park Police and Fire departments who have worked beside her and seen how effective she is in reaching a population who also adores her for how she has created opportunities for them to be empowered and celebrated. BUT - here is what the children think as I gathered their collected thoughts, putting it to poetry: “From Us, About Miss Yolanda” We’re just kids, but we see more than people think. We see who shows up, who listens, who doesn’t walk away when things get hard. RI Miss Yolanda does. She kneels down to our height so we don’t feel small. She learns our names, even the ones grown‑ups forget. She asks how we’re doing and waits for the real answer. She tells us we matter before we’re old enough to doubt it. We’ve watched her help our moms, our aunties, our neighbors, the people everyone else walks past. She makes them feel safe, like the world hasn’t given up on them. And when they feel stronger, we feel stronger too. Miss Yolanda is the kind of grown‑up who makes the whole building breathe easier. She brings calm into rooms that used to feel scary. She brings hope into places that forgot what hope felt like. We think she should be honored because she doesn’t just help people— she changes the way we see ourselves. She reminds us that kindness is powerful, that courage is quiet, and that heroes don’t always wear capes. Sometimes they wear name badges and carry clipboards and smile at kids in the hallway. We’re just children, but we know this much: Miss Yolanda makes our world better. And people who do that deserve to be seen. If you need additional space to explain your nomination and answers to the above questions, attach your responses here.   Demographic information 3 of 3