The Needham Human Rights Committee reviewed plans for a two-session regional training series organized with the Needham Resilience Network (NRN) and Essential Partners and confirmed logistical details on Dec. 18.

The sessions are scheduled for March 1 and March 8, each from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m., with an optional networking period until 5:00 p.m. The committee confirmed it will contribute the $300 approved earlier and agreed to compile an invite list that prioritizes representation from the select board, school committee, planning board, housing authority, commission on disabilities, clergy, and student participants. Members said they will invite more than the target 25 participants because of expected declines.

Members discussed accessibility and outreach: Newton's "plain language coordinator" was cited as a model for preparing materials that are easier to translate and understand, and the committee asked that outreach copy be checked for accessibility and translation quality. Members also raised open-meeting concerns about inviting entire boards; staff advised that the training is not a decision-making forum but recommended checking with Town counsel if multiple members of a single elected board will attend.

Committee members agreed to return with a finalized invite list and contact the chairs of relevant boards and committees to request one or two delegates where appropriate. NRN/Essential Partners and Needham staff will follow up with registration details.