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Diversity council sets planning team for 'Words Matter' panel and community forum
Summary
The council moved its postponed 'Words Matter' event into Q1 2026, named volunteers to lead planning, and discussed a hybrid format combining a panel (writers, teachers, journalists) and interactive exercises with students and parents; members also discussed venues and calendar timing.
The Bristol Diversity Council confirmed that the previously planned "Words Matter" event will be executed in Q1 2026 and that Dave and Sandy volunteered to co‑lead planning. The council discussed format, speakers and venues and asked members to join a subteam to avoid quorum issues for planning work.
Marcus Patton said the event could combine a panel of people who use words professionally—journalists, songwriters, English teachers—with an interactive second half that invites attendees to respond to provocative words in small groups. Council members and equity‑team teachers suggested the library, Bristol Bazaar and other public venues; the library was identified as a likely free option for the March window.
Members noted practical considerations: timing to avoid Lent and major holidays, including Easter and St. Patrick’s Day; options to combine the Words Matter event with other Q1 activities such as a Cash Mob; and logistical needs such as appraisals, insurance or permits for larger public events. Several members volunteered to organize content (panels and interactive prompts) and to recruit student and parent participation via school liaisons.
Next steps: a three‑person planning subteam will draft an execution plan, propose possible dates (candidates included the fourth Tuesday or the last Tuesday of March), and book the library or another venue as appropriate.
