01/08/2019 MASHPEE INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY COMMITTEE Minutes

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Mahoney indicated that it was challenging to identify the best time for programming for a younger population. Ms. Johnson-Graham agreed that they spent more time at the library when her daughter was younger, but that the library was very welcoming and offered excellent programing and resources for kids. Ms.Mahoney noted that, over the last four years, the library has partnered with the schools and Project Bread to provide free lunch and activities during the summer. The community guests are invited to participate and provide programming, such as fire tracks or the police dogs outside or movies and inside activities on rainy days. All children are invited to attend with no necessary qualifications or paperwork, removing any stigma by offering it as a regular part of the library programming. Committee Member Assignments-The Chair noted that, if Committee meetings were to be limited to i I/hours, it would be necessary for others to work outside the Committee to research and gather additional information. The Chair expressed interest in learning more about funding availability and whether there were restriction as a Town Committee. The Chair has contacted the Town Manager for more information regarding the Open Meeting Law. Ms. Johnson-Graham noted her experience on another committee where members gathered information to be presented to the full Committee at the following meeting. Ms. Waterman and Ms. Johnson-Graham recommended asking the Town Manager whether the Committee would be allowed to pursue funding opportunities. Ms. Landry inquired whether the Committee should first identify an activity prior to seeking funding. Ms. Landry recommended again that the Committee identify educational goals. Future Speakers-Ms. Waterman recommended inviting a speaker from the Barnstable County Human Rights Commission, but, due to the Ordinance being re-written Ms. Wilson advised that it may be better wait. The Chair referenced Ms. Doyle's recommendation to invite someone from the Housing Assistance Corporation to speak. The Chair referenced a recent Letter to the Editor regarding homelessness in Mashpee and having someone speak to the Committee regarding the issue. Ms. Waterman recommended reviewing the list of categories in the Committee's Purpose, to address inclusion and diversity, and identify an appropriate speaker for each category, and Ms. Wilson agreed. Ms. Waterman also suggested consideration as to whether the Committee wished to host speakers from within Mashpee or outside of Mashpee. The Chair distributed copies of the MIDC Policy as a point of reference. The Chair recommended reaching out to Sue Wilson, the head of Pride, Boys &Girls Club and a representative from the Villages, as potential future speakers. Ms. Johnson-Graham liked the idea of reaching out to HAC, specifically regarding their efforts in inclusion and diversity and focus on Mashpee, or the Mashpee Housing Authority. Ms. Waterman inquired how homelessness related back to inclusion and diversity. Ms. Johnson-Graham suggested a need to learn more about available services, adding that Mashpee residents would often seek help from HAC. Referring back to the list, the Chair indicated that homelessness would likely cover many of the listed categories. There was consensus provided speakers were referring back to the Committee's list. Develop Action Plan-Referencing the Purpose, the Chair suggested that providing a welcoming environment was served by Mr. Horner's Veterans Project. Offering childcare services would assist to foster civic engagement, to encourage young parents to become involved. Supporting or suggesting programs to promote a culture of respect would be addressed