Town Officials Creating Human Rights Committee Framework

TEWKSBURY, MA — Tewksbury officials are working on a framework for a human rights committee, after a discussion by the Board of Selectmen at their Aug. 11 meeting.

Selectman Jayne Wellman proposed the creation of a commission at the board's July 15 meeting, noting nationwide Black Lives Matter protests as well as the town's recent appointment of a new police chief, Ryan Columbus.

The committee would "ensure all residents enjoy equal opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, marital, family or military status, socioeconomic status or disability" and "advocate against unlawful discrimination in housing, employment, education, public accommodations, town services, banking, credit, health care and so forth," Wellman said.

The committee could also host events, like Martin Luther King Jr. Day, she added.

Town Manager Richard Montuori presented a draft mission statement at the board's Aug. 11 meeting. Board members suggested that the body be an advisory committee, not a commission, that the membership be expanded beyond the initial nine member proposal and that the town hold a public forum ahead of forming the committee.

Wellman said she would work more on the framework with Montuori and send it to other town stakeholders like representatives from the schools and the police department.

The full meeting is available here from TewksburyTV and the draft committee framework is included in the meeting packet.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.