Michael Welsh advocates for open dialogue at Kaiser City Council meeting

The Community Diversity Engagement Committee (CDEC) of Keizer, Oregon, convened on August 7, 2025, to address key issues surrounding community engagement and the guidelines for public proclamations. The meeting began with a public comment from resident Michael Welsh, who emphasized the importance of allowing open dialogue and uncomfortable conversations within the community.

Welsh referenced a previous meeting where Julie Ray Joy received a proclamation and shared her experiences, which sparked discomfort among some attendees. He argued against the need for guidelines that would limit the expression of personal truths, asserting that such restrictions could stifle community engagement. Welsh highlighted the necessity of discussing difficult topics, such as racism, to foster understanding and awareness within the community.

He urged the committee to reconsider any proposed guidelines that might inhibit open expression, advocating for a space where residents can share their lived experiences without fear of retribution or restriction. Welsh concluded his remarks by encouraging the committee to embrace uncomfortable conversations as a means of promoting inclusivity and understanding.

Following the public comment, the committee moved on to review its short and long-term goals. This segment aimed to ensure clarity on the established objectives and to discuss any progress made towards achieving them. The meeting underscored the committee's commitment to fostering a diverse and engaged community, with an emphasis on the importance of open dialogue and accountability in addressing community issues.