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Human Rights Commission applicants highlight inclusion, youth and disability justice
Summary
Multiple applicants for Eugene's Human Rights Commission emphasized equity-focused outreach, youth supports, disability justice and culturally responsive engagement during a series of statements at the April 14 work session.
A diverse group of applicants told City Council on April 14 that they would bring lived experience and policy or program expertise to Eugene's Human Rights Commission.
Britney Vanna, who said she has lived in Eugene for 20 years and was born in Amman, Jordan, described experience in domestic-violence advocacy, mediation and work with UNESCO and the United Nations. "I'm especially passionate about youth and disability justice and culturally responsive public engagement," Vanna said.
Jamie Bowman, who described a decade of nonprofit and training work on LGBTQ+ issues in Central Oregon and personal experience as a queer parent who has been houseless, framed her candidacy around ensuring historically erased communities feel safe and seen. "I've spent the last dozen years trying to make Central Oregon a place where queer people and other historically erased communities, especially youth, feel safe," Bowman said.
Juniper Kristofferson, a U of O student and former youth advisory council member, said outreach and improved communication with residents would be priorities. Vanita Murthy described a background in city and regional planning, transportation planning and equity initiatives; Murthy said she would focus on education, outreach and interagency partnerships.
Elena Uman, a University of Oregon student and former youth advisory co-chair in Gresham, told council she supports the Eugene Human Rights Code and would bring a youth perspective to the commission.
Applicants generally emphasized engagement with underrepresented communities, culturally responsive outreach, and building relations across agencies. Councilors did not make appointments at the April 14 work session; appointment decisions are scheduled for June 9, 2025.
