The Novato Multi-Cultural Commission will host a free to public community event entitled, Forum on Equity: Success and Challenges in Creating a Diverse Community and the Way Forward. The  event will be held on Saturday, January 21, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Novato City Hall, 901 Sherman Avenue.

10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Coffee, conversation & music by DJC 
10:30 – 1:00 p.m. 3-Component Event: Key Address, Roundtable & Panel Discussion plus next step approach from the Fireside Chat Project.

Moderator: Josh Fryday, Novato Mayor Pro Tem
Part 1: Roundtable Discussion 

• Chief of Police Adam McGill to deliver key address describing best practice approaches in maintaining a safe and productive community, during this time of political change.  This roundtable will offer opportunities for the community to be heard, air challenges and come up with creative solutions.

Part 2: Panel Discussion

• Speakers from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds will discuss their approach to maintaining heritage, and self-identity while weaving themselves into the fabric of the broad community.
• Panel will discuss progresses made towards a diverse and equitable community in Novato, and Marin County while identifying current roadblocks and strategies to overcome obstacles.
• Our panel brings will engage with personal perspectives and provide insights to life in Novato and Marin County.
• Speakers
  1. Otis Bruce: Senior District Attorney, County of Marin
  2. Mubarack Muthalif: Founding Member, Islamic Center of North Marin
  3. Nancy Flaxman: LGBTQ Cultural Competence Instructor, Consultant on Aging
  4. Deanna Euritt: Exec. Director, Novato Human Needs Center

Part 3: Fireside Chat Project

• Simple next steps approach to envision change at home.
• A fireside chat is a chance for 6 to 10 people with diverse life experiences to talk and get to know each other in a warm and friendly environment. There are no expectations for any specific outcome.

Student Raffle: 
Android Tablet donated by Latino Marin to help overcome the digital divide

The Novato Multicultural Advisory Commission will act as a catalyst to encourage respect, understanding, and inclusion of all of Novato's diversity. The Commission seeks to enrich the lives of the community through courageous interpersonal dialogue, and strives to build a safe and strong community through group and individual interaction as well as outreach, activities and education.

More info: Contact Marie Banas at 415.897.4361, ext. 7008