HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-01-26 Minutes
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MINUTES
MEETING MINUTES
New Hanover County/ City of Wilmington
Community Relations Advisory Committee
Virtual ZOOM Meeting
January 26, 2021 4:00 PM
Special Planning Meeting
Committee members present: Liz Carbone, Jen Johnson, Kathy King, Lori Wainright, Scott Whisnant,
Megan Mullins, Evelyn Bryant, Reverend Charles Davis, Kim Geiger, and Florence Warren
Staff Present: Linda Thompson, NHC; Suzanne Rogers, COW; Erica Jacobs-Graham, COW
Absent: Courtney Horton, and Reddgo Long Jr.
Call to Order
Chair Lori Wainright called the meeting to order at 4:00 pm. Roll Call was taken. A quorum was
established. Lori discussed the purpose of planning meeting, recognizing the Facilitators Sahsa Vann and
Rick Abrams from Vantage Point and their role in assisting with the meeting. Lori pointed out the
purpose, function and duties of CRAC as described in the bylaws by way of a refresher for members.
Icebreaker (Introduction of old members and new members – please take 1 minute to share who you
are, why you joined the committee and what you want to see as the result of our efforts.
Florence Warren – Joined because she wanted to bridge the difference between the former NHC
Human Relations Commission and CRAC. Wants to make a difference in the community.
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Rev. Davis – Serving his 2 term on CRAC, wanted to serve as a result of commitment to be of
service to others and his service with other organizations in the community, for example NAACP.
“I do whatever I can to help someone else.”
Evelyn Bryant – Serving her last term on the CRAC. Years ago, she served on the Human
Relations Commission and felt the need to be on CRAC and to be a voice for those who’s voices
are not heard.
Scott Whisnant – NHRMC, serving his first term, second year. He serves to continue his work in
community engagement, be in the community and lend a voice.
Megan Mullins – Joined because she is very interested in learning more and understanding.
Fostering greater diversity, equity and inclusion in the community.
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Jen Johnson – Serving her 4 year. Interested in addressing racial discrimination and LGBTQ
discrimination and creating positive change.
Liz Carbone – Joined in 2019. Works in homeless services and believes it is important to
represent homeless who are underrepresented and need a voice.
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Kim Geiger – 5 grade teacher at Forest Hills, she sees firsthand the experience of high needs
people and what they go through. Wants to have a voice for them.
Kathy King- Joined to expand awareness of what’s going on. Help lend a voice for my
community.
Lori Wainright – Eight years ago when she came to town noticed how segregated the
community was. At her job with the Court most of the people in court are people of color; while
riding her bike she notices that many streets are not modified for disabled, and other
observations about the community integration and services.
Reports
Linda Thompson shared an overview of the recently completed NHC report on Diversity, Equity,
and Inclusion.
Update on existing projects:
WHAC – Evelyn reported the draft housing study and survey will be presented to the WHAC at
next meeting.
LGBTQ – Jen reported on meeting with other LGBTQ advocates and the on-going effort to get
local policy against LGBTQ discrimination
Neighborhood Schools – Scot reported still in communication about presenting to a joint session
of City Council, County Commission, and School Board or scheduling individual presentations.
Will continue to pursue a commitment.
Youth Forum – Lori reported out on meeting with Big B to discuss a virtual youth forum. She will
follow-up with Reddgo Long to ask him to take the lead on this effort.
Planning Facilitation
Sasha Vann and Rick Abrams of Vantage Point introduced themselves and began a discuss with CRAC
members about the future work and priorities. Notes prepared by Ms. Vann are included as a part of
the minutes.
Adjourn: Meeting adjourned at 6:00 p.m.