Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission shall be an advisory body to the Village Board and its Boards and Commissions, and its mission shall be to foster and promote an inclusive community where all racial, ethnic, gender, religious, sexual orientation and cultural backgrounds feel safe and welcomed. The Human Relations Commission shall also promote increased participation in all aspects of community life and a sense of shared community among all residents.

 

Reinvigoration of the HRC Initial Task:
Conduct community engagement initiatives and community discussions on racism, social equity and community building to identify the needs of Wilmette and create a proposed two-year work plan. The work plan may then be presented to the Village Board Administration Committee for review and discussion.

Purpose of the HRC

To make recommendations to the Village Board regarding the following:

  • To promote the well-being of all members of the community;
  • To support all segments of the population including, but not limited to, youth, seniors, persons with disabilities, black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC), lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning (LGBTQ), all persons regardless of their religious beliefs, and low income groups;
  • To support, address and make recommendations concerning emerging community needs;
  • To serve as an advocate, educator, communicator, and a point of contact for all segments of the population in the community;
  • To promote justice and equity;
  • To encourage and facilitate solutions to social issues;
  • To plan or support community events and programs that bring together and support diverse members of the community;
  • To provide recommendations to the Village Board on matters pertaining to community welfare; and
  • To develop ways of anticipating, preparing for and relieving community tensions arising from intergroup conflict.

Members

There are currently two student vacancies on the Human Relations Commission. Per the Village Code, individuals whose terms have expired continue to serve until such time that their replacement has been approved by the Village Board.

  • Gerald Smith, Chair
    • Reappointed 9/1/15. Term end date is TBD.
  • Swathi Mothkur
    • Appointed 2/9/21. Term ends 2/9/24.
  • Malaika Myers
    • Appointed 2/9/21. Term ends 2/9/24.
  • Mark Teasdale
    • Appointed 2/9/21. Term ends 2/9/24.
  • Ann Dronen
    • Appointed 2/9/21. Term ends 2/9/23.
  • Van Gilmer
    • Appointed 2/9/21. Term ends 2/9/23.
  • Eric Hellige
    • Appointed 2/9/21. Term ends 2/9/23.

Staff Liaison 

Alex Arteaga, Management Analyst

If you are interested in serving on this or any other board or commission, complete and submit the Talent Bank Questionnaire found here.

 

Preferred Qualifications for Commission Membership

The Village President may give preference to candidates that will foster a Commission consisting of a diverse mix of residents encompassing different races, ethnicities, religions, genders, sexual orientation, ages, and socio-economic differences. Preference may be given to residents who are experienced or trained in promoting diversity and cultural understanding, experienced or trained in youth-oriented services, and experienced or trained in promoting Veterans affairs.

Agenda & Minutes

 

This page was updated on 02/10/21.

Wilmette