Commission outlines NHPI heritage festival plans, a potential film screening and ambassador onboarding

Commissioners sketched plans for a May heritage festival, a possible film screening and onboarding for newly selected community ambassadors.

Members discussed an outreach email from a film producer who offered a free screening this year but indicated a "small fee" would likely apply if the screening is scheduled next year; commissioners expressed concern about unclear fee terms and whether holiday timing would reduce attendance. The group leaned toward seeking a clearer fee estimate and, if necessary, deferring to next year to coordinate with indigenous student groups.

For the NHPI/AANHPI heritage event commissioners considered Saturdays in May and discussed formats ranging from a three-hour indoor program (11 a.m.–2 p.m.) to an all-day festival. Program ideas included Hawaiian and Chinese dance performances, a drumming group, an MC (possible emcee: Kermit), tabling by service organizations, arts and crafts, and food vendors or trucks. Commissioners noted food-truck participation depends on vendor minimums and suggested securing the lineup early to aid marketing. Tim was assigned to contact the Hawaiian dance group.

The commission reported completion of ambassador interviews and recommended 11 community ambassadors with staggered onboarding for 18-month volunteer terms. Commissioners agreed to host an onboarding dinner at the next meeting (6–9 p.m., council chambers) and to survey dietary needs in advance.

Next steps include confirming film-fee details with the producer, securing performers and vendors for the May festival, and sending onboarding invitations to the selected ambassadors.