Committee approves Cynthia Wayne’s appointment to Human Rights Commission

Cynthia Wayne told the Program Services Committee she wants to serve on the Human Rights Commission to help the city build skills for listening and mutual understanding.

Wayne, who identified herself as president of the Newton Food Pantry and a longtime local nonprofit leader, said her experience running youth and community programs has taught her how to foster respectful dialogue. "The mission of the human rights committee really resonates with me," she said, adding that she hopes to support programs that "teach people of all ages to embrace difference and learn how to listen."

Committee members praised Wayne’s civic record and asked about her top goals. Wayne said she has not yet attended a commission meeting and plans to listen and learn before proposing specific programs, but she cited dialogue workshops and professional facilitation as models. Chair Josh Franklin noted his family’s volunteer connection to the pantry and called Wayne “well suited” for the role.

Councilor Robert Bixby moved approval; the committee voted unanimously to forward the appointment to the full City Council for final confirmation. The committee clerk said the item will go to the council’s next meeting on August 10.