Date: February 14, 2019
To: Members of the Human Rights Commission
From:
Title
Indigenous People Day Resolution Discussion.
Body
Action Requested:
Discussion only.
Summary Report:
Mayor Pownell has had discussions with St. Olaf President Anderson and Carleton President Poskanzer to consider a collaborative approach across Northfield including our college campuses to express support for diversity and encouraging words and conduct consistent with being an open safe and welcoming community. Moving forward with a formal ceremony or something similar recognizing indigenous peoples was suggested as a possible way to continue with this goal.
Bruce King, St. Olaf Assistant to the President for Institutional Diversity has followed up with Mayor Pownell and Councilor Grabau (Council liaison to the Human Rights Commission) to further explore discussions of planning for some celebration in 2019 for Indigenous Peoples Day. Concilor Grabau has assisted in coordinating Mr. King to attend the Human Rights Commission for this item to have this initial discussion.
Background
In 2018, the City of Northfield approved a Resolution Recognizing the Second Monday of October as Indigenous Peoples Day (see attachment). There was little time to prepare in 2018 but the Human Rights Commission did host a small gathering to celebrate the first Indigenous Peoples Day in 2018. The event was Monday, October 8th at 6:30 p.m. at the Cannon Valley Friends Meeting house at 512 Washington Street.
Additionally, the Human Rights Commission has hosted an annual "International Day of Peace" event in September. In 2018, the Northfield Celebration of the International Day of Peace was on Friday, September 21 and included a presentation at Carleton College from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The focus of this event for 2018 was to highlight cultural elements of Indigenous Peoples in our region with speeches and musical performances. The following are some highlights of the event:
* Opening remark...
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