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Pueblo Human Relations Commission seeks 'boots-on-the-ground' advocacy after county dissolves intergovernmental agreement
Summary
The commission presented a reintroduction to city council and described a shift from an endowment fund to direct community engagement after Pueblo County dissolved a joint intergovernmental agreement.
Claire Shadd, chair of the Pueblo Human Relations Commission, presented the commission’s goals and recent activities to Pueblo City Council on June 9, saying the commission intends to move from an endowment model to “boots-on-the-ground” advocacy and direct community engagement.
Shadd described the commission’s purpose as promoting mutual understanding and equal rights for marginalized groups across Pueblo County and outlined work over the past year, including a community fundraiser breakfast, a human relations proclamation day, partnerships with District 60 to address a discrimination report, and monthly meetings held with the Pueblo County Library District.
Shadd and Commissioner Don Tripp Sinha said the commission is reviewing its bylaws with city attorney assistance, adding a new office coordinator position and increasing outreach through social media, grant-seeking and quarterly community events. The commission also highlighted youth involvement and workforce-readiness ideas led by its youth appointee.
Council members asked how the recent dissolution of the intergovernmental agreement (IGA) between Pueblo City and Pueblo County would affect the commission’s work. Shadd said the county’s resolution to dissolve the IGA appeared intended to give the commission more independence but that it would reduce the collaborative relationship and could limit funding opportunities and reach into rural Pueblo County. Shadd said the commission would continue to seek collaboration with the county despite the IGA dissolution.
Commissioners also addressed concerns about immigration-related fear expressed in the community; Shadd and Tripp urged the commission’s role as a conduit for affected residents and recommended providing clear information about rights and resources. Council members thanked the commission and Mayor Graham for city support. No formal council action was recorded; an ordinance later on the agenda was expected to address reallocation of the commission.
