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Brookline Select Board interviews candidate Zaria Jones for DEI commission seat
Summary
The Select Board interviewed Zariana "Zaria" Katakashian Jones for an appointment to the Commission on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Relations; Jones emphasized participatory grantmaking, community convenings, and outcomes-focused toolkits for inclusive events and education.
At the Jan. 27 meeting the Select Board interviewed Zariana Mahamadi Katakashian (who says she goes by Zaria Jones) for a seat on the Town of Brookline's Commission on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Community Relations. Jones described a background in local philanthropy and civic organizing, including work on a participatory grant program, a guaranteed-income pilot in partnership with the Brookline Housing Authority, and leadership on Juneteenth and planned Pride events.
During questioning, Jones said she wants the commission to prioritize two outcomes: coordinated, well-funded commemorations and celebrations that avoid "competing for visibility," and practical toolkits (inclusive-language guidance, event-planning checklists, and harm-response protocols) that departments and community groups can use. She emphasized training and education components for Pride and school programming and said intent and impact must both be weighed in responses to community harm.
Board members thanked Jones for her thorough presentation; no appointment was made that night and the board said it will notify candidates when appointments are scheduled.
