Human Relations Commission

Human Relations Commission 2025 (1)

The purpose of the Commission shall be to deal with the causes of intergroup disunity which underlie the urban crisis, including, but not limited to, the elimination of conditions of bias discrimination and prejudice against minority groups, and to establish affirmative action programs to ensure equal enforcement of the law, and equal protection of the law, for all groups regardless of race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetics, status as an active member of the armed forces of the United States, or any other protected class recognized under state or federal law (“protected class status”).

Members of the Human Relations Commission

Name
Seat
District
Term Expiration
Robert Anspach  Chair   June 30, 2024
Vacant Member
June 30, 2026
Damon Araujo Member 6 June 30, 2027
Mary Kenney Member 4 June 30, 2026
Gregory Hayes Member 1 June 30, 2028
Rebecca Glenn Member 8 June 30, 2028
Vacant Member   June 30, 2026
Dana Essigmann Member 8 June 30, 2027 
Matt Brown Member 2 June 30, 2028

Human Relations News Updates

Informational Event for Immigrants in Framingham
This event provided important information and resources for immigrants in Framingham and surrounding areas. 

Topics included legal rights, family preparedness, student safety, mental health support, and community services. 

Local leaders and organizations gave presentations, including MetroWest Legal Services, Framingham and Keefe Tech superintendents, BRACE, and the Massachusetts Immigrant Resource Association.


Board/Commission Duties

Commission duties are outlined in Article II: Functions and Authority of Permanent Officers, Boards, and Committees of the Town (City) Section 12: Human Relations Commission.

Membership Responsibilities

Members serve a three-year term are encouraged to attend meetings; remain diligent to the needs of our community and bring those needs to the attention of the Commission; do research when asked regarding specific issues; plan and execute forums and seminars.

On January 3, 2023, the City Council voted to reduce the number of Commissioners from 13 to 9.

Member Skillset

Varies as Members are volunteers and represent various aspects of our community.

Meeting Information

Meeting dates/occurrence: Meetings are on the second Thursday of each month (with the exception of July) starting at 7 p.m. and are held in the Memorial Building, Conference Room 2.