HRC is working on a multitude of projects in 2021. The most recent discussions have centered on implementing a universal land acknowledgment statement to be used at the opening of city meetings. A land acknowledgment is a formal statement that recognizes and respects indigenous peoples as traditional stewards of this land and the enduring relationship that exists between indigenous peoples and their traditional territories. The board is developing this statement to be first incorporated in HRC meetings hoping that other boards and commissions will adopt this practice. This will acknowledge the indigenous peoples who came before us and are historically tied to Colorado.
The commission is continuing work on the Tell Me More webinar series implemented in 2020. Tell Me More is a public forum series on equity, diversity, and inclusion in Greeley. The first forum occurred after the George Floyd incident, and the discussion centered on those issues pertaining to the black community. The second forum was from the Latinx perspective. HRC is planning a third forum to be presented in 2021, centering on the refugee community. Information on this forum will be available on the HRC webpage as they develop. These forums aim to provide open, safe, and supportive environments to foster community dialogue and increased awareness around these topics and more.
HRC Chairperson Roger Muller said, "joining the HRC provides a Greeley resident the ability to both educate themselves and others as to the diversity in existence within our community as well as provides the ability to learn about our past and present. It provides a person the ability to voice their ideas and learn about others to focus on the future of this community as a place of equity, diversity, and inclusion for all people of our community."
Apply online to be an active member of HRC or other interested boards and commissions. Greeley's Boards and Commissions program offers 23 different interest groups for residents to engage in and make recommendations for the city. Joining a board or commission is a great way to influence public policy and programming decisions that can affect the entire city. Check the Boards and Commissions webpage often to see current vacancies, apply online, and view agendas for upcoming meetings open to the public.