Indigenous Commission schedules Jan. 8 meeting, welcomes new appointees and recaps Heritage Month events

The Flagstaff Indigenous Commission on Dec. 11 agreed to reschedule its January meeting (originally set for New Year’s Day) to Jan. 8 at noon and confirmed the meeting will be available virtually. Commissioners discussed availability and set the date by consensus during the meeting.

The commission introduced recently appointed members. One new appointee identified herself in the meeting as "Miss Curtis," saying she is appointed to a role related to indigenous understanding and cultures at NAU’s special collections and archives. The meeting also noted the recent appointment of Shirley Francis and referenced reappointments for other commissioners.

Commissioners reviewed community activities from Native American Heritage Month, including a youth art activity at Flagstaff High School on Nov. 20 and a film screening and discussion on Nov. 21 that drew a large crowd. The screening prompted a community discussion about the local justice system; commissioners reported participation from the police chief, city council members, a county supervisor, the county attorney and victim advocates.

Commissioners also shared updates on community programs and partnerships. One commissioner described work with TAROs, a local mobile crisis/behavioral health response program, and said they continue to support individuals in crisis by coordinating with law enforcement and health services.

The commission closed the meeting with thanks to staff and volunteers and with a request for community help in identifying volunteers who could deliver wood to elders as part of a local outreach effort. The meeting adjourned after routine business and the announced next meeting date.