I. Call to Order/Roll Call/Minutes (May 2018) Chairman Islam. II. Citizen Comment Chairman Islam III. Election of VBHRC Officers Rod Ingram

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1 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION (757) VIRGINIA BEACH HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION M EM BERS: RAJEEB ISLAM CHAIRMAN RON TAYLOR VICE-CHAIRMAN BEATRIZ AMBERMAN PANKTI BAROT MICHAEL F. BERLUCCHI VIVIAN E. BLAIZE THOMASINE CUBINE DR. VIRGINIA JENKOT MARY MATHENA SYLVIA NERY-STRICKLAND E. FORTUNATO JOJO ORENCIA JR. FATHER JAMES E. PARKE WM CLIFF RICE LUIS A. RIVERA, MA Ed. TERESA STANLEY FRANCES KNIGHT THOMPSON RABBI ISRAEL ZOBERMAN STUDENT COMMISSION MEMBERS: JOSEPH HYATT NICHOLAS DiNONNO CITY COUNCIL LIAISONS: BOB DYER SHANNON DS KANE EXECUTIVE DIRECTO R: REGINA S. HILLIARD, HR DIRECTOR LEGAL COUNSEL: ROD INGRAM, DEPUTY CITY ATTORNEY HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION LIAISON: KATHY HINSON MUNICIPAL CENTER BUILDING COURTHOUSE DRIVE VIRGINIA BEACH, VA VIRGINIA BEACH HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Thursday, June 14, :00 p.m. Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library Members Present: Rajeeb Islam (Chair), Cliff Rice, Vivian Blaize, Sylvia Nery-Strickland, Teresa Stanley, Beatriz Amberman, JoJo Orencia Jr., Rabbi Israel Zoberman, Father James Parke, Thomasine Cubine, Luis Rivera, Dr. Virginia Jenkot, and, Michael Berlucchi Members Absent: Ron Taylor (Vice-Chair), Frances Knight Thompson, Mary Mathena, Nicholas Dinonno, Pankti Barot, and Joseph Hyatt Guests: George Amberman, Michael Cloud Butler Staff Present: Ken Chandler (Deputy City Manager) Rod Ingram (Deputy City Attorney), Melissa Bowers (Human Resources Manager), Sgt. Shelly Meister (VBPD Liaison), Kathy Hinson (VBHRC Liaison), Jerlisa Winborne (Human Resources Office)and Howard Waldie IV (City Manager s Office) AGENDA I. Call to Order/Roll Call/Minutes (May 2018) Chairman Islam II. Citizen Comment Chairman Islam III. Election of VBHRC Officers Rod Ingram IV. 4 th of July Observations V. VAHR Conference Review All VI. Resolution for An Age Friendly Community VII. Continuing Work of VBHRC VBHRC Work Plan and Retreat Legislative Agenda Items RAC/VBHRC Oceanfront Taskforce Mental Health Task Force * provided in writing Pastors /Leaders Table *provided in writing o Community Recruitment Expo VIII. Commissioner & Staff Remarks *provided in writing IX. Adjournment VBHRC Inquiries: # s 4 Type 1.Other / Mental Health 2. Other / Age / Mental Health 3. Other / Mental Health 4. Employment All Commissioner Amberman Howard Waldie All Commissioner Nery- Strickland Commissioner Cubine Commissioner Stanley All Chairman Islam Referral: 1. Disability Law Center 2. Riverside Center for Excellence in Aging and Lifelong health, VB Senior Resource Center, Alzheimer s Association of Hampton Roads 3. NAMI, Disability Law Center 4. Disability Law Center, Virginia Employment Commission

2 June 14, I. Call to Order/Roll Call/Minutes (May 10, 2018) The meeting was called to order by Chairman Islam at 4:06 p.m. Roll was taken of the Commissioners, staff and guests in attendance. The minutes from the May meeting were reviewed; Commissioner Amberman made a motion to approve the meeting minutes and Commissioner Jenkot seconded the motion. The meeting minutes from May 10, 2018 were approved unanimously. II. Citizen Comment No Citizen Comments III. Election of VBHRC Officers Deputy City Attorney Rod Ingram reminded the Commission of the proposed slate of nominated officers that was presented last meeting as follows: Chairman: o Rajeeb Islam Vice Chairman: o Frances Knight Thompson o Sylvia Nery-Strickland The nominating committee chair, Commissioner Rice asked if there were any nomination or comments from the floor in regards to election of Chairman. No nominations or comments were made from the floor, so nominations were closed for Chairman by Commissioner Rice. Commissioner Rice made a motion to elect the slate as recommended by the nominating committee. Motion was approved unanimously. Rajeeb Islam was elected to the role of Chairperson for the 2019 Fiscal Year. Commissioner Rice read a letter from Commissioner Thompson, as she could not be in attendance due to travel. Commissioner Thompson s letter shared that she was honored to accept the nomination for Vice-Chairman and further shared why she would be an ideal candidate. Commissioner Nery-Strickland also shared her past human right experience and thoughts on why she would be an ideal candidate. Deputy City Attorney Rod Ingram explained the voting and election procedures per the Commission s bylaws; Election shall be by a majority of the members of the Human Rights Commission. The current commission currently has nineteen members; therefore, one candidate must receive 10 votes in order to elect an officer Chairman Berlucchi requested that the Chairman yield, to allow him to explain his reasoning for his vote. Several other commissioners shared their thoughts and reasoning for their personal votes. Commissioner Jenkot suggested that in future elections, a printed document should be provided to show the characteristics of each candidate. Commissioner Rivera requested clarification on the process for nominating a candidate when that person is also serving on the nominating committee. Commissioner Stanley explained that because the nominating committee decided not to vote on the slate of nominees for Vice Chair, but to instead bring forward all three names, then there was no need for any member of the committee, who was also on the slate, to excuse themselves from the committee to vote- as there was no vote. Deputy City Attorney Rod Ingram asked if there were any nomination or comments from the floor for Vice Chairman. No nominations were made from the floor, so nominations were closed for Vice Chairman. Commissioner Rice then began the voting procedures. The first vote yielded 9 in favor of Commissioner Nery-Strickland, 1 in favor of Commissioner Knight -Thompson with 3 abstentions by Commissioners Zoberman, Islam and Jenkot; the motion failed.

3 June 14, The second vote yielded 11 in favor of Commissioner Nery-Strickland, 1 in favor of Commissioner Knight Thompson, with one 1 abstention by Chairman Islam. The Commission elected Sylvia Nery Strickland to the role of Vice - Chair for the 2019 Fiscal Year. Chairman Islam and Vice Chairwoman Nery-Strickland were sworn into office by Deputy City Attorney Rod Ingram for a one year term beginning July 1, IV. 4 th of July Observations Kathryn Hinson reminded the commission that the 4 th of July holiday is approaching and while there is not any official sign up, Commissioners should try to go out and observe and share their comments at the next meeting. Chairman Islam requested to utilize the online survey, similar to the one used for College Beach Weekend. Kathy will send out a link for the survey to the Commission prior to the July 4 th Holiday. Commissioner Parke mentioned each year a dinner is held by the 2 nd precinct CAC for officers on duty during the holiday and that they would welcome any food contributions. He shared that Commissioners could simply drop off a few food items before heading to the Oceanfront for the 4 th of July festivities. Commissioner Parke encouraged his fellow commissioners to contact Diane Alberto for more information or clarification. Commissioner Nery Strickland briefly shared her observations from Memorial Day Weekend stating that it was very crowded and she was not able to access the Oceanfront area due to the road closures. She further shared that the Patriotic Festival was essentially rained out. V. VAHR Conference Review Chairman Islam shared it was an amazing conference and wonderful opportunity for a broad conversation with other Commissions around the state. He personally thanked Commissioner Blaize for her communications prior to the conference. Commissioner Blaize thanked all of her fellow commissioners that attended for their support. Marie Culver from Virginia Beach Public Schools was awarded the Champion for Human Rights Award the conference. VAHR also held elections; Curtis Porter was elected to serve as president, Ann Smith was elected as Vice President and Ron Taylor was elected to serve as treasurer. Commissioner Blaize mentioned that due to the by-laws she could no longer serve as treasurer, as she had already served a three year term. She thanked Commissioner Stanley for her wonderful Medicaid expansion presentation at the conference. Commissioner Stanley expressed she would like more information on the individual Commissions around the state and how the VBHRC and VAHR can most effectively interface. Commissioner Amberman made a suggestion that Commissioner Blaize consider acting as a designated liaison from the VBHRC to VAHR. VI. Resolution for an Age Friendly Community Commissioner Amberman shared that she and Commissioner Parke are members of a special task force of the Mayor Commission on Aging to discuss the AARP s project called Livable Communities. The AARP Livable Communities supports the efforts of neighborhoods, towns, cities and rural areas to be great places for people of all ages. They help communities work to provide safe, walkable streets; age-friendly housing and transportation options; access to needed services; and opportunities for residents of all ages to participate in community life. Commissioner Amberman said that a resolution is in the works, sponsored by Council Member Barbara Henley, and asked the VBHRC to consider adding their name to the resolution. Commissioner Stanley asked if this project was a part of the new Blue Zones initiative. Deputy City Manager Ken Chandler elaborated on Blue Zones, stating that the Blue Zone initiative is a national initiative that is helping to transform communities across the U.S. into areas where the healthy choice is easy and people live longer with a higher quality of life.

4 June 14, A community interest meeting was held at the Virginia Beach Convention Center on June 6 and there were over 200 people in attendance. Commissioner Stanley asked if the AARP project was working collaboratively with the Blue Zones project as they appear to have a similar goal. Commissioner Amberman said that Blue Zones was mentioned in their last meeting and that to her knowledge there was an effort underway for the two initiatives to work collectively. Deputy City Attorney Rod Ingram reassured the Commission that they could chose to endorse the concept of working to make Virginia Beach age friendly and a healthy, livable community without adding their name to the resolution. Once the final version of the resolution is completed Commissioner Amberman can share that with the Commission for further review; the VBHRC s mention was removed from the resolution for now. VII. Continuing Work of VBHRC Update VBHRC Work Plan and Retreat Howard Waldie IV provided a presentation of the Human Rights Commission Work Plan for FY19. He shared that this plan includes overview, objectives, initiatives, and goals that the VBHRC decided on in their small group meetings to focus on during FY 19. The six objectives that the commission agreed upon for their FY19 Work Plan are as follows: I. We will develop administrative functions and utilize quality processes to support the mission and goals of the VBHRC. II. We will continue to see avenues of education and outreach for Virginia Beach residents. III. We will increase communication and information sharing with public. IV. We will be more engaged in citywide issues to serve as a conduit for many services, when in line with the VBHRC s mission. V. We will partner with community organizations, city agencies, and individuals committed to human rights causes. VI. We will initiate advocacy to provide a welcoming environment for all. In support of the objectives defined by the commission, twelve initiatives were selected to create productivity and output for the commission and increase impact on the community. In support of Objectives I III the Commission established the following initiatives, which would be accomplished by the Administrative Taskforce: 1. Provide an Annual Report to City Council, maintain the VBHRC s webpage on the City s website, provide material for the City Manager s update, and further establish our presence on social media while maintaining our current utilization. 2. Host the annual VBHRC Awards program and participate in Human Rights Week to raise awareness and support for our mission and recognize the efforts of our community s champions. 3. Provide a holistic legislative agenda recommendation to City Council, furthering the mission of the VBHRC to our state community. 4. Establish a new member onboarding process and create a list of participation opportunities. 5. Establish a calendar of activities that highlight Human Rights and encourage commissioner engagement. In support of Objectives IV -VI the Commission established the following initiatives, which would be accomplished by the and I.D.E.A (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, & Accessibility) Taskforce: 6. Engage and support our underserved communities. 7. Engage in EnVision 2040 to ensure Human Rights are incorporated in the plans for the future. 8. Be an active partner in sustainability, resiliency, and environmental missions, to ensure a Human Rights perspective is represented in those matters. 9. Maintain an active membership with VAHR, including participation as determined by the VBHRC. 10. Continue engagement with the Community & Police Relations Table to further positive progress in regards to Human Rights.

5 June 14, Lead and/or participate in observations, such as the Oceanfront Observation Program, to ensure our awareness of issues impacting Human Rights. 12. Establish a liaison partnership with VBCPS to provide support and guidance to the Scholl Board in order to promote and ensure the protection of human rights for the K-12 school community in Virginia Beach. These taskforces include commissioners, whose input is used to determine how the commission will carry out the initiatives. These taskforces will collaborate with liaisons, community stakeholders, and other resources to provide additional input and aid in accomplishing the outlined objectives. The responsibility of the Administrative Taskforce is to address work group, awards, ceremonies, nominating, fundraising, budget and etc. The responsibility of the I.D.E.A Task force is to address mental health, law enforcement, community relations, commission representation for the Joint-Oceanfront Committee, Historic Preservation Roundtable, VB Mental Health Initiative, School and Virginia Beach Vision and etc. All Commissioners poured out their sincere thanks and appreciation for time and effort Howard put into the presentation. Commissioner Amberman made a motion to send a letter of thanks to Deputy City Manager Ken Chandler s office to be added to Howards personnel file. Commissioner Stanley seconded this motion. The motion was approved unanimously. Commission Amberman made a motion to approve the FY 2019 work plan as presented and was seconded by Commissioner Nery Strickland, the FY 2019 work plan was approved unanimously. Howard concluded by reading his facilitator note, which shared his appreciation to the Commission for the opportunity to assist in determining their FY19 Work Plan and his admiration for the commission and their devotion to the community. Howard also specifically thanked Kathy Hinson was for her support and appreciation through the process, which was echoed by the Commission. The Commission will continue the retreat with Howard Waldie as the facilitator. He would like to hold a preliminary retreat session to determine the logistics, some potential dates for the retreat and discuss the material that will be addressed during the retreat. Kathy agreed to send a doodle out to the Commission with available dates for the pre-retreat planning meeting. Legislative Agenda Items Kathryn Hinson reminded the Commission about the deadline for submission to City Council of legislative recommendations for 2019, which is July 27 th. The commission will vote at next month s meeting. Commissioner Stanley and Cubine mentioned several potential items for consideration. Kathy asked for Commissioners to submit items and supporting information to her on or before July 2, so that she had ample time to draft the proposed legislative recommendations before the July 12 VBHRC meeting. The VBHRC will be voting on the legislative package recommendations at that time. RAC/VBHRC Oceanfront Task Force Commissioner Nery-Strickland mentioned the RAC / VBHRC Joint Oceanfront Committee met on May 18 th and will meet again June 22 nd at 3pm at the CVB Board Room, 2101 Parks Ave, Suite 500. She also mentioned that the businesses on Atlantic Ave have created an Atlantic Avenue Association. They have submitted a six (6) point paper to the City Manager for enhancements of the Oceanfront to make it safe, more festive and inviting for all. They hold closed meetings; however Commissioner Nery- Strickland has been given an invite to a meeting and will keep the VBHRC informed on their progress. Mental Health Task Force No other comments, other than those provided in writing

6 Pastors/ Leaders Table No other comments, other than those provided in writing o Human Rights Commission Meeting Minutes June 14, Community Recruitment Expo The First Community Recruitment Expo for VBPD will be held at The Family Life Center in the Western Bayside area on Sept 15 th 10am- 1pm. It will take engagement from the community and the police for this event to be successful. VIII. Commissioner & Staff Remarks Commissioner Berlucchi apologized that he has to excuse himself from the meeting early but wanted to elaborate on an initiative that has been ongoing and ask for the VBHRC to officially support the continuing efforts as they progress for the LGBT Public Safety Consortium. Hampton Roads Pride has been working in collaboration with VBHRC to establish LGBT Liaisons in law enforcement departments such as VBPD and the Sheriff s Office. This is a group of public safety professionals across the region that meets quarterly to discuss issues that relate to the LGBT community. They address safety, workforce development and numerous topics that relate to building bridges of trust, understanding and respect in the community. This is a regional effort and has been engaging all public safety branches including Police, Fire, EMS, 911 Operators and the FBI to help achieve these efforts. Commissioner Berlucchi expressed the importance of education and cultural literacy about the LGBT community; stressing that it aids in recognizing the appropriate approach when addressing different experiences. Commissioner Berlucchi made a motion that the VBHRC officially agree to partner with Hampton Roads Pride in support of the LGBT Public Safety Consortium. Commissioner Nery-Strickland seconded the motion. The motion was approved unanimously. Kathryn Hinson reminded the Commission of the College Beach Weekend After Action Meeting with our City Council Liaisons on June 28 th at 6:30pm at the Convention Center Meeting Room 4 an invite and was sent to all community members who participated in the CBW Observations this year. Commissioner Parke asked if tickets will be available to members of the VBHRC for HRDIC, Kathy Hinson will research and provide more information during the next meeting. Commissioner Jenkot wished everyone a Happy Pride Month! She shared that there are many activities planned throughout Hampton Roads, and invited her fellow Commissioners to visit for more information. The kickoff event will be from 6pm -9pm on June 21 at the Chrysler Museum of Art and Block Party will begin at 7pm on June 29 at the Norfolk Scope, and PrideFest will be held on Saturday June 30 at Downtown Norfolk s Town Point Park from 12pm 7pm. Commissioner Jenkot gave a few announcements on behalf of Commissioner Stanley. The Welcome Your Neighbor signs have been ordered - the signs are in six different languages and state No matter where you are from, we re glad you re our neighbor. On June 28 from 8:30am -10am the Environmental Justice Prayer breakfast will be held at Lynnhaven Colony Congregational Church. Please contact Commissioner Stanley for additional information. The Hampton Roads LGBTQAI Interfaith Celebration will be held at 7pm on June 26 at the New Life Metropolitan Community Church, located at 1000 Sunset Drive in Norfolk. Commissioner Blaize acknowledged that Commissioner Rice also provided valuable input into VAHR and he was previously the parliamentarian for VAHR. She also shared that she has been conducting research through her company as a part of the City s Disparity Study. Commissioner Amberman provided an addendum to the press release from the Virginia Coalition of Latino Organization. The phone number to the Department of Justice is (202) She expressed her concerns over the decisions being made by Homeland Security, as they are negatively impacting legal refugees in our Country; including children and those seeking asylum.

7 June 14, On Tuesday, July 3 the Naro Expanded Theater will host the movie: Pope Francis: A Man of His Word and a conversation concerning to climate change, nuclear weapons, and immigration. Commissioner Amberman will be one of the speakers on immigration. She request any support from fellow commissioners if possible. Commissioner Orencia shared he went to the Strawberry festival on May 26 th and had a great experience and pictures are available on his Facebook page. Fil-Am Friendship day will be on July 7 at Redwing Park from 9:30am 6pm the event is free and open to the public. Chairman Islam thanked his fellow Commissioners for giving him the opportunity to serve as Chairman for another year. He also shared that the Eid Prayer in Virginia Beach will be at Virginia Beach Field House on Friday, June 15 starting at 9:00am to be followed by a Picnic and Field day from 11:00am 5:00pm at the New Masjid Land, located at 2438 Salem Rd. Kathryn Hinson expressed her thanks to Commissioner Thompson, Commissioner Rice, Sharon Felton, and Amelia Ross-Hammond. They have agreed to serve on a panel called The History and the future of Civil Rights at the Little Theatre of Virginia Beach (LTVB). Two separate sessions will be held directly following LTVB s production of Hairspray on July 22 and July 29. Kathy will send more information via . IX. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 6:11pm