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Meeting Minutes Human Relations Commission Regular Meeting April 9, 2025 | 6:00 p.m. Chandler City Council Chambers 88 E. Chicago St., Chandler, AZ Online: bit.ly/HRCApril9 Passcode: CM2Ug3hw Call to Order The meeting was called to order by Chair Maxwell at 6:03 p.m. Roll Call Commission Attendance Staff Attendance Chair Erica Maxwell Adrianna Erickson, DEI Coordinator Vice Chair Kriti Agarwal Commander Daniel Shellum, Chandler Police Commissioner John Anguiano CC Cantabrana, Management Assistant Commissioner Tony Pham Commissioner Shannon Begay Commissioner Betty Ramirez Commissioners Absent Commissioner Kent Lane Commissioner Tyler Conaway Commissioner Pamela Morris Commissioner Jevan Bremby Guests: Garry Ong Scheduled and Unscheduled Public Appearances None Consent Agenda Motion and Vote Commissioner Ramirez moved to approve the February 12, 2025, Human Relations Commission meeting minutes; Seconded by Vice Chair Agarwal. Motions carried unanimously (6-0). Page 2 of 4 Action Agenda Recommendation and Approval of Moving June’s Meeting to May Adrianna Erickson shared that the Human Relations Commission (HRC) will welcome three new members in May. Considering this, the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Division recommends hosting a dedicated welcome meeting in May to provide an opportunity for all members to get to know one another and begin building connections. The commission will also bid farewell to outgoing members Shannon Begay, John Anguiano, and Tyler Conaway, thanking them for their service and contributions. To accommodate this transition, Vice Chair Agarwal made a motion to move the scheduled June 11 meeting to May 14. Commissioner Ramirez seconded the motion, and it was unanimously approved by all present. The rescheduled meeting will take place from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Approved (6-0) Recommendation and Approval of Hosting an HRC Retreat in June or July The DEI Division suggested hosting a retreat in June or July to discuss the plans of the Human Relations Commission, including strategic planning and the election of a new Chair and Vice Chair for the upcoming year. Vice Chair Agarwal made a motion to host the retreat on June 11 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. to address these items. Commissioner Ramirez seconded the motion, and it was unanimously approved by all present. A calendar invite will be sent to members in the coming days. Approved (6-0) Discussion “Getting to Know Me” Presentation During the Getting to Know Me presentation, Commissioner Tony Pham shared about himself and his interests, highlighting his focus on sustainability and conservation efforts in various cities. He noted that he has not engaged in much work or outreach in Chandler, expressing that he doesn’t perceive the same level of diversity in Chandler as he does in cities like Phoenix. Pham also mentioned that he and his friends don’t tend to spend time in Chandler the way they do in other areas. In response, fellow members shared that Chandler is, in fact, a diverse community and encouraged Pham to explore different parts of the city and become more involved in local community efforts. On her last day serving on the committee, Commissioner Shannon Begay shared reflections about her time on the Human Relations Commission, noting that she has served for nine years and has enjoyed the experience. She emphasized the importance of history in her life, proudly sharing that her grandfather is one of the last remaining Navajo Code Talkers. Begay expressed that she sees diversity as one of the greatest aspects of living in Chandler and appreciates the ongoing efforts to highlight and celebrate it. Although she will no longer serve on the commission, she looks forward to continuing her involvement in community efforts. She shared how being part of the HRC has had a positive impact not only on her but also on her family, who have actively participated in events and learned new things together throughout the years. She encouraged all members to stay involved and continue uplifting the community through their service. 2024 Look Back Review Chair Maxwell announced that the 2024 Look Back Review will be presented at the next HRC meeting. Page 3 of 4 Goodbye and Plaque Presentation to HRC Members Chair Maxwell took a moment to recognize outgoing Commissioners John Anguiano and Shannon Begay during their final meeting. Maxwell presented each of them with a plaque as a token of appreciation for their dedicated service to the Human Relations Commission over many years. Chair Maxwell thanked them for their valuable contributions and the positive impact they’ve had on both the commission and the Chandler community. Fellow commissioners also expressed their gratitude, offering kind words and well wishes as John and Shannon move forward with their continued community involvement. DEI Division Update During the DEI Division Update, Adrianna Erickson shared the exciting news that the DEI Division and the IT Department recently won a Smart Cities Award for their collaboration on the ILA Program (Instant Language Access Program). This program is designed to help bridge language barriers for residents by providing instant language translation devices in various city departments. Adrianna highlighted that nearly 24 of these devices have now been placed around City departments, making it easier for residents to access services and communicate effectively, regardless of language differences. Adrianna also discussed the Seeds of Legacy program, which hosted Andres Chavez, the grandson of Cesar Chavez, at four Title 1 schools. The program aimed to share the legacy of Cesar Chavez and inspire students by telling the story of his grandfather’s contributions to civil rights and labor movements. In addition, all members were invited to the upcoming Boards and Commissions Appreciation Event, which will honor the dedication of those who serve on Chandler’s boards and commissions. Finally, as the commission bids farewell to three members, Shannon Begay, John Anguiano, and Tyler Conaway, three new members are joining the HRC. These new members—Shaunna Risinger, Omar Rodriguez, and Joacim Mattisson—bring diverse experiences and a strong commitment to the Chandler community. Each of them has been actively involved in Chandler in various ways, and their contributions are expected to add great value to the commission moving forward. Chandler Police Department Update During the Chandler Police Department Update, Commissioner Anguiano commented on seeing an increase in car accidents in South Chandler, particularly in recent weeks. Commander Shellum acknowledged this trend, noting an uptick in speeding, motorcycle-related incidents, and left-turn accidents over the past few years. Chair Maxwell then shared a personal experience where she was walking and someone in a truck yelled derogatory and culturally demeaning words at her. She asked if she should report the incident, to which Commander Shellum advised that she should report this and any future incidents. Shellum also reminded members about the importance of reporting such incidents, referencing a previous discussion about how hate speech could be added to disorderly conduct charges. Commissioner Begay shared a concerning incident at Sunset Park, where a man appeared to be engaging in indecent exposure. She expressed concern for the safety of families and children who frequently visit the park. Commander Shellum encouraged all members to report such incidents and any future occurrences to ensure community safety. Page 4 of 4 Member Comments/Announcements None Calendar Chair Maxwell encouraged all members to review the calendar of events and attend as many events as they can. Upcoming events include the Asian American Community Connection and Juneteenth celebrations, both of which provide valuable opportunities to engage with the community. Adrianna Erickson also encouraged members to keep an eye out for the DEI community newsletter, which will feature updates and information about future events and initiatives. The next regular meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 6 p.m., in the Chandler City Council Chambers, 88 E. Chicago St., Chandler, AZ Adjourn The meeting was adjourned at 7:12 p.m. ______________________________ ______________________________ CC Cantabrana, Recording Secretary Erica Maxwell, Chair