Troy — Members of the Human Relations Commission praised the recent unveiling of a Civil War memorial and discussed creating a historical marker for Josephine Slider, a local woman buried at Riverside Cemetery.

Commissioners said the memorial event—featuring historians, funders and a flag-folding ceremony—reflected the commission’s goal to honor local history and foster inclusion; one commissioner proposed adding a marker for Slider after attendees suggested her story.

Commissioner Sonia, who led the discussion, said the unveiling “was amazing” and credited the commission, the city, funders and historians. She recounted a local anecdote about Josephine Slider’s wartime life and reported that citizens had asked whether the commission would consider a marker for her. “I’m open to that,” Sonia said, and encouraged residents to nominate others who have not been recognized by contacting the city. Sonia also called out Clyde Hughes for conducting the flag-folding ceremony and praised Pastor Sheree, a former HRC commissioner, for her keynote address.

Commissioners discussed why Riverside Cemetery was chosen for the memorial—Sonia said it was by citizen nomination—and said the commission is open to researching and marking other overlooked local histories. Staff and members suggested fundraising ideas and noted the veterans museum’s role in preserving artifacts and photographs tied to local military service.

Discussion points: event logistics and recognition of local individuals; possible historical-marker process for Josephine Slider; community nominations via the city website or by phone. Direction: commission to solicit nominations and consider marker research; staff to provide guidance on marker criteria. No formal vote was taken on a marker.

Ending — Commissioners said they would accept public suggestions and follow up through city channels and that staff would help clarify procedures for new markers and community nominations.