Committee Work

Camrose Pride

Posted by Nikki Featherstone on in Meeting Minutes 0 Comment

Date: Monday, January 10, 2021

Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm

Place: Online

Attendees: Nikki, Jessica, Candy, Teri, Raymond, Gus, Charissa

Regrets: Justin, Alex, Stephen,

  1. Call to order/Introductions/Check in
    1. Called to order by Nikki at 1836
  2. Financial Report
    1. bank fee only
    2. $2,285.53 – report attached
  1. Old Business

3.1 Conversion Therapy Ban

3.1.1 Federal Criminal Code Passed

3.1.2 Discussion

  • May make things harder for municipalities to support own ban as it is now federal criminal code – they won’t see the value or need
  • Law needs to be analyzed as to what it really means
  • Will need more backing to gather real support
  • Attitude is that if there’s a problem take it to court
  • Regrouping needed around our approach
  • Still need formal municipal support
  • We should not stop moving it forward – would be ideal to find a council member champion
  • Public knowledge around federal vs provincial vs municipal laws to support the federal movement
  • We should review the law to see what is missing, what is strong and what could be clarified.
  • Making people aware that this does happen here and what it is
  • Support individual knowledge and awareness – beyond municipal
  • Urgency of getting it done has eased – we have more time, decreased pressure
  • Because we’ve initiated this we need to have a public presence to provide a person centered approach

            3.1.2 – Data

  • Gathering data is still critical
  • Community members need to know that it does happen here and where it’s happening and how
  • Understanding Conversion Therapy practices
  • Opportunity to gather real good data
  • Education of ourselves as to why it needs to be on a provincial and municipal level so we can educate others/families/community
  • Personal story collection is critical to show the critical impact
  • Connect back with Dr. Wells, No Conversion Canada
  • Charissa has access to U of A data
  • Qualitative research could start with conversations
  • Data has to be stored in a safe place

Action:

  • Nikki will contact Dr. Wells about research – methodology, ethics, best practices and movement forward.

3.2 Revised ACTION plan (refer to agenda for detailed action items)

  • Crowdsource funding plan from AB government and the gov’t will match an amount of the donations
  • Can we do it under No Conversion Canada umbrella
  • CIP grant available – matching dollars
  • We have to be careful with government funding due to loopholes
  • City of Camrose may have funding available – community grant and arts and culture grant
  • CDSS – possible source, limited amounts
  • May want to include youth development piece as well
  • Need a youth rep on the board

Action:

  • Candy to explore local grants- to support research and events for Pride month
  • Jess to explore other sources of funding
  • Charissa explore how many QSA’s are in the school division
  • Touch base before next meeting
  • Anyone who can chat with council , go ahead 🙂 
  • Step 3 of action plan
    • Gather data on occurrence and impact of Conversion ‘Therapy’ Practices in Camrose and area; contact other communities who have passed their by-law and inquire around where/how they gathered data on this
    • Self education in our group about the federal ban
  • Question
    • What is our mission statement around this? How do we get people to be accountable for their actions? Christian church lack of responsibility and accountability.
    • Some discomfort in the group regarding certain organizations
    • Abusers will ignore it
    • Goal – advocating for our right to exist
    • Goal – knowing what is a Conversion practice and sharing that knowledge
  1. New Business

4.1 AGM – due first quarter, March 14 meeting.

  • Follow AGM with strategic planning session – update and refocus existing strategic plan

4.2 Spring/Summer Events – Monthly review to see what we are doing in June 2022

4.3 School Update

 – Students don’t see it as a big deal, and want to continue with clubs and extracurricular activities.

– The current group needs more support and safety then the past groups (previous was more involved in advocacy)

– Division is supporting their capacity through QSA at some schools in the division.

– New division Inclusion and Diversity Coordinator is heading up QSA groups and supporting trans students

  • Hays Lakes has an active QSA
  • Conference reinforced the legalities around QSA – schools have to support development
  • Most parents DO support safe space for students in the school
  • Alt View is able to support rural development of QSA
  1. Standing Items

5.1 Monthly Meetings – next meeting Feb 14 – reschedule? – moved to Feb 7, 2022

5.2 ExpressOUTSIDE – TBD, COVID dependent

5.3 Friends and Family Support Group – Running online, first Wednesday of every month – contact Andrea Dyck for info: adyck@brsd.ab.ca

  1. Adjournment and check out

Adjourned by Nikki – 1944

Camrose Pride

Posted by Nikki Featherstone on in Meeting Minutes 0 Comment

Date: Monday, October 18, 2021  
Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm    Place: ONLINE ZOOM
Attendees: Nikki F, Ray M, Charissa S, Jessica D, Christina R, Stephen CM, Candy M, Gus B
Guest: Carol B

Agenda ItemMinutes
Call to OrderMeeting called to order at 1834 by Chair: Nikki F
Financials Provided by Treasurer Candy M:   $3.75 for bank fees Last month account increased by $50 through community donation One expense in for $50 for Nikki   $2200 and change
Carol B – Presenting on Sahakarini opportunity for CPCWhat is Sahakarini ? non government organization in Camrose An east Indian word that means cooperation or working across
founded in 1979 – original members were missionaries
Mission – to help the poorest of the poor in developing countries to do their best in life History: Once a year does fund raisers – historical – one way they auction off a pair of sandals from the founders, year for a year and add to the history of the shoes – i.e. you take the sandals with you as you travel
Water filtration in Kenya
Projects in central America
Supports about 3-4 projects per year
One main event – a dinner with the sandal auction   Proposal: This year – opened up to groups to use for once a week to increase awareness and passion for their cause. Keep sandals in Camrose and per week a groups can have the sandals and show the travels through Camrose. (52 weeks).
Link between CPC – and Sahakarini are to cross boundaries and supporting people
Carol would like to connect the groups and support each other in the community, have some mutual dialogue. Maybe in the future the two groups can connect and support alignment and cooperation.
Proposal for CPC to have sandals in June to support Pride month
Carol has already made the donation on behalf of CPC  

CONVERSATION: Idea – Fireside stories in our sandals with the sandals.  
Website: sahakarini.org  
Conversion Therapy Ban By-law – Pledge & Election Update  Revisit ACTION PLAN
COMPLETED: Step One – first draft of Letter to the City of Camrose – an invitation to join us/champion the process to pass the bylaw against Conversion “Therapy”/Torture. COMPLETED: Step Two – Create Pledge and sent to those running for Municipal Election in City of Camrose:
5 candidates returned signed pledges.
4-5 candidates contacted CPC wishing to meet and discuss the pledge but as request was very clear, meetings were deferred until after election. Some misunderstood that a federal ban was already through – corrected and educated on process or legislation. _______________________________________________________ Step Three: Begin canvasing other supports within Camrose:
Create a new Pledge for agencies and businesses, psychologists and therapists, parents, family members, affirming churches/pastors, school boards, Augustana, organizations, Camrose Library, shelters, individuals citizens etc., to sign in support of the bylaw. This will provide more support, awareness and active support for change.
Ask for permission to have names of signees visible so we can create more support and encouragement of others
Give a snapshot of info to give to people about the Conversion Therapy Ban by-law        

Ministries: Affirming ministry – first approach and have them take to ministerial meeting and have leaders of the faith take to their people. Some legwork with religious groups already done on national level. Some delay since COVID in 2019 – United Church still gives the impression of support but how are they navigating congregational services?
Each faith group will have to approach individually since they are all so diverse and different – same faiths do not necessarily practice the same between congregations (i.e. Lutheran).
CPC is not alone – use our resources, affirming churches, No Conversion Canada, Pam Rocker etc….  

Survivors: Be aware of the constant attitude and subtle ways that people have been controlled, abused and oppressed as we move forwards.
Create a call out to any survivors in our area who may want to come forward – providing supports is critical
Please ensure CPC members are taking care of themselves  

ACTION: All members start identifying humans and groups to approach and have some conversations Nikki and Candy will develop the next community pledge for Conversion Therapy Ban  

Step Four: Contact Council members:
Who got elected – then see who we have that was supportive
Have to have in community support not just outside but can use the great work done by No Conversion Canada to assist in this process Develop a multi-level support to make this a fabric of Camrose society and a deeper understanding of what this means

New council is encouraging – new minds and new ideas, timing could be advantageous.  

Step Five: Take by-law proposal to Council
Looking Forward – Fall & Winter EventsPaused, COVID 4th wave  
Regular MeetingsRegular monthly Board Meeting
Monday, Nov. 8th, 2021 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm
Location: online zoom

Solstice Fire at Gus’ to be discussed  

EspressOUTSIDE TBD – Paused – Covid 4th wave  

Friends and Family Support Group
Running online, first Wednesday of every month – contact Andrea Dyck for info: adyck@brsd.ab.ca  
AdjournmentNikki Featherstone adjourned meeting at 1936

Municipal Elections – BAN Conversion ‘Therapy’ Practices Pledge

Posted by Nikki Featherstone on in Committee Work 0 Comment

Camrose Pride has contacted every candidate running for the City of Camrose council, and invited them to sign our Pledge to End Conversion ‘Therapy’ Practices!

We will be keeping a public record of all candidates who sign our Pledge, so you all will know who is standing with us on Oct. 18th!

See below for the email we sent them and read Pledge!


Dear Candidates,
We are writing today to ask you to become public, intentional, and explicit in your support for the 2SLGBTQ+ citizens of Camrose. We were inspired by the campaign by the Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters, “Lift Her Up”, and with permission from them, adapted it to our own pledge we are requesting each of you sign.

It is a declaration that you recognize the violence and abuse that 2SLGBTQ+ citizens experience in Camrose, often from systemic sources; and that as a candidate to represent these citizens, you are ready to declare your support and commit to working to eradicate all societal violence against 2SLGBTQ+ citizens, including a by-law prohibiting all forms of conversion practices in the City of Camrose.

Please take a moment to read through the attached Pledge, and when you’re ready, sign and return it to us via this email. We will be keeping a public record on our social medias of all the pledges we receive back, so that our community, (and all our families and allies), can know who is willing and ready to stand with us on Oct. 18th.

Sincerely,
Nikki F
Chair
On Behalf of the Camrose Pride Society
Sept. 28, 2021

#NoConversionCanada #BanConversionTherapy #CityOfCamrose #Municipalelections2021 #pie #publicintentionalexplicit #camrosepride #2SLGBTQ #alberta

END CONVERSION ‘Therapy’

Ban Conversion ‘Therapy’ Practices
2021 Camrose Municipal Election Commitment


As a candidate in the upcoming municipal election in Camrose, Alberta:

• I express my respect and support of 2SLGBTQ+ citizens
• I will treat all citizens as equal members of our community, regardless of sexual identity or gender expression, as my part in creating an overall culture of inclusion
• I commit to do my part to prevent all instances of homophobic, transphobic, and biphobic behaviours, and to hold all candidates to the same standard of conduct, recognizing that homophobic, transphobic, biphobic or violent language and representation do a disservice to all candidates and to the public at large.

Should I be elected, I will adhere to this same level of conduct and will:

• Pursue policies which eradicate all forms of societal violence, including a by-law prohibiting all forms of conversion practices in the City of Camrose.
• Advocate for 2SLGBTQ+ people who experience violence and abuse.
• Honour the diversity of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and work towards addressing the barriers they may face.
• Recognize that as a community leader, I have a role to play to encourage dialogue and education on the importance of ending violence against 2SLGBTQ+ people.

This commitment demonstrates my understanding that by promoting equality, I as a candidate, help to reduce long-term costs, build stronger communities, and fairly represent the citizens of Camrose who elected me.

By signing the below, I do hereby commit to the above:

Name:
Candidate for (check one): _ Council or _ Mayor
Signature:
Date:

May 10, 2021

Posted by Nikki Featherstone on in Meeting Minutes 0 Comment

Camrose Pride Community
Date: Monday, May 10, 2021  
Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm    Place: ONLINE ZOOM

Attendance:
Executive Leadership:
Nikki F (she/her) – Chair
Candy (she/her) – Treasurer
Stephen (he/him) – Member-at-Large
Regrets:
Robyn Gray (she/her) – Secretary
Sam – Youth Council Rep
Jana (she/her) – Member-at-Large
Members:
Andrew
Ray
Teri
Marsha
Guests:
Wyatt

  1. Call to Order – Confirm quorum – Introductions
  2. We have quorum
  3. Financials – Candy
  4. No change since last month. 1,765.53 in bank account (net change -$3.75 from last month, bank fee) plus $550 petty cash. Financial sheets are attached
  5. Invitation for CPC member to speak on a Panel w/ MLA Janis Irwin
    1. Camrose NDP is going to be running a panel for Pride month focused on rural LGBTQ+ issues and pride, and they would really love to have a representative from Camrose Pride Community on the panel to help bring those issues to light.
    1. will be on Saturday, June 12, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
    1. panel is going to be pretty broad, so the panellist would be welcome to talk about whichever aspects of rural LGBTQ+ issues they would like to spotlight (i.e., healthcare, education, housing, employment, etc.
    1. Contact person – Wyatt T. (wyatt.tanton@gmail.com)
      – practice panel Sunday before. If anyone is interested, please contact Wyatt this week so that it can be put on their events page. Looking at a $10.00 ticket for the event (two hours). Looking for one individual to represent CPC. Online, open to any individual to come. Will have questions focusing on PoC, trans issues, etc.
    1. Would like a focus on supports for youth and GSA’s within topics of the conversation.
    1. We will send an email to our membership to find who is interested in the event.

Motion (Candy): Camrose Pride Community to support this event and agree to canvas for an appropriate participant. Seconded by Nikki. Motion Passes Unanimously

  1. Andrew V. – 3 part talk for Camrose Healthcare providers on 2SLGBTQ+ issues – looking for feedback from CPC on any experiences we wish to ensure are covered.
  2. Can use Camrose Pride Community as a community resource.
  3. Please reach out if you have nay topics that would like to be covered
    1. Wyatt: Body dysmorphia and COVID, inability to be active like before and COVID recovery
    1. QSA: will give some thought too and respond
  1. Conversion ‘Therapy’ Ban By-law
    1. – ACTION PLAN – create our Action Plan to carry this out
      1. first draft of letter to be written as step one, to be presented to City of Camrose Council during Pride Month. (mid June)
  2. We have a few weeks to come together to make a draft letter for a councillor to present (or a community member to present).
  3. What should the action plan look like?
    1. Step 1: Communications plans:
      1. Internally, Why we want to do this? What do we need to do?
      1. Who brought forth bylaws to the other previous communities?
      1. Reach out to Pam Rocker.
      1. Reach out to the counsellor members individually to see who may be returning or leaving come October.
      1. Wyatt: Agnus Hellen, Max Lindstrand and ? will be running again. Election candidates: Lucas Bannock, Wyatt Tranton, Stacey Wall. There’s an info session June 13th for candidates. Thinks most candidates would support this – you can also be involved and run!
    1. Step 2 How: the letter itself on what we think the bylaws could and should look like
    1. Step 3: Discussion on putting out an announcement in June: Wyatt thinks Camrose NDP would support and could be a topic of conversation in Panel. Needs to be submitted a month before – would hopefully be discussed in July.

Motion (Candy): Camrose Pride Community to send a Public Service Announcement in June 1 about intention to submit a draft bylaw banning conversion therapy to City Council. Seconded by Stephen. Motion Passes Unanimously

Action: Candy to put together a background document to supplement the application. Nikki to reach out to Pam and other counsellors and candidates.

  1. June – Pride Month – Check in on ACTION plan
    1. Queer Scavenger Hunt idea-
      1. Nikki will create lists of items to find – in progress
      1. Are we able to source prizes for this, or do we think with COVID, that may not be wise? How else can we create a prize for this?
      1. Don’t feel good asking businesses for prizes.
      1. many small prizes vs one big prize

Motion (Nikki): Camrose Pride Community to use $150.00 for prizes from small, locally-owned businesses to be selected by participant draw.  Seconded by Candy. Motion Passes Unanimously

  • Colouring Pages – Candy
    • Candy will gather colouring pages for the community to colour and enter into a draw for prizes.
    • Online Queer Trivia – Stephen
      • Questions posted online; answers given out later
      • Stephen to create list of trivia questions, with help from other members and Board – Update?
        • Working on this currently.
    • Moments of Pride – reshare last year’s videos, invite new ones from community to create archive of local queer & allied voices. – will be completed in June
    • Letter to City of Camrose to request the flag be raised June 1st – Will this be included in the letter sent out to rural communities?
    • Candy – drafting letters to all villages and towns within the counties of Camrose, Beaver, and Flagstaff, requesting they raise a pride flag for June
      • Draft Letter has been shared with the Board – all in favour of sending it out?
      • Stephen found emails for Flagstaff county municipalities; we need volunteers to gather the other 2 counties’ emails, as these need to go out ASAP.

Action (Nikki): to talk to Gus about the process of requesting the Pride Flag to be raised. Nikki to contact Camrose County. Candy to contact Beaver and Flagstaff.

  1. Youth Council – Update on ACTION plan
    1. Candy to connect with Sam and ask to begin talking with our community youth around anything they would like to present during June for youth – Update?
    1. She had mentioned activities to QSA, but currently challenging right now with COVID. We are open to support them in their ideas. Doesn’t have to be a month long thing, can also be in July or later as COVID allows. Are zoomed-out.
    1. Nikki – connected with Andrea Dyck around any resources she may direct us to for supporting the Youth Council – Update: Andrea has stated that her team would love to support the Youth Council of CPC, which would mean the Mental Health Capacity Building Team through BRSD. She said to just let her know when we have particulars and she is happy to schedule a meeting to talk through what would be helpful and what they might be able to do.
  2. Letter to UCP on Curriculum – Update?
  3. Hasn’t been sent yet. Went to some of the parent sessions to gather more information. Started drafting it, feel we need to send something. In progress, waiting other input from experts.
  4. Rotary Meeting – Update?
  5. Have set a date, we get about 10 minutes of the meeting
  6. Upcoming regular meetings
    1. Regular meeting for planning and connection
      1. 1.    Monday, June 14, 2021 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm (Every second Monday)
      1. 2.    Location: online zoom (likely)
      1. EspressOUTSIDE
        1. May 31st – Physically distanced walk around Mirror Lake – meet at Jubilee Park 7pm
        1. TENTATIVE – weather and Covid restrictions dependant. Announcement will be put on the FB page
      1. Friends and family meeting
        1. Final meeting before summer break (until Oct) – June 2nd, 6:30pm
        1. Please contact Andrea Dyck for details (adyck@brsd.ab.ca)
  1. Sharing circle

April 12, 2021

Posted by Nikki Featherstone on in Meeting Minutes 0 Comment

Camrose Pride Community

Monthly Meeting
Date: Monday, April 12, 2021   
Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm    Place: Online Zoom Meeting

Attendance:
Executive Leadership:
Nikki F (she/her) – Chair
Candy (she/her) – Treasurer
Stephen (he/him) – Member-at-Large
Jana (she/her) – Member-at-Large

Regrets:
Robyn Gray (she/her) – Secretary
Sam – Youth Council Rep
Members:
Brae

  1. Call to order – Nikki
    1. Quorum is achieved.
    1. Introductions.
  2. Changes to agenda –
    1. Candy adds response letter from CPC to Alberta’s pilot curriculum
  • Financial report – Candy
    • The balance sheet and RBC statements have been made available to CPC Executives.
    • No change in funds outside of bank charges
    • Please see attached Financial Reports.
  • Rotary meeting request
    • Invitation from Rotatory to attend a May meeting and present on CPC; this will create connections within the community and may give us access to applying for scholarships/sponsorships through the Rotary

MOTION: Stephen McKenzie-Comeau

That Nikki (Chair) and Candy (Treasurer) arrange to present the slideshow on CPC created last year (with any needed updates), and attend said meeting to create a relationship with Rotary.

SECONDED: Jana

CARRIED

  • Plan for 2021
    • June – Pride Month
      • Queer Scavenger Hunt idea-
        • Nikki will create lists of items to find
        • The lists will be sent out to the community over the month of June.
        • Those who participate can enter their score into a draw for prizes – donations from local community will need to be sourced
      • Colouring Pages – Candy
        • Candy will gather colouring pages for the community to colour and enter into a draw for prizes.
      • Online Queer Trivia – Stephen
        • Questions posted online; answers given out later
        • Participants can enter their answers into a draw? Or just for fun and education?
        • Stephen to create list of trivia questions, with help from other members and Board
      • Moments of Pride – reshare last year’s videos, invite new ones from community to create archive of local queer & allied voices.
      • Letter to City of Camrose to request the flag be raised June 1st
      • Candy – drafting letters to all villages and towns within the counties of Camrose, Beaver, and Flagstaff, requesting they raise a pride flag for June.
      • Board members researching where to source pride flags in bulk for best price
  • Other times of the year activities
    • ExpressOUTSIDE –making it an umbrella event for all of our casual outdoor gatherings this year
    • We will offer a monthly ExpressOUTSIDE, with a variety of occurrences, such as:
      • Walk around Mirror Lake
      • Fire at Gus’
      • Hikes at Miquelon
      • Hikes at Chickadee
      • BYOE (bring your own everything) wiener roast at Jubilee and/or Miquelon
      • Others?
  • Youth Council
    • – Candy to connect with Sam and ask to begin talking with our community youth around anything they would like to present during June for youth
    • Nikki to connect with Andrea Dyck around any resources she may direct us to for supporting the Youth Council
  • Conversion Therapy Ban By-law
    • May Meeting – time spent creating Action Plan – first draft of letter to be written as step one, to be presented to City of Camrose Council during Pride Month. (mid June)
  • CPC response letter to Alberta government pilot curriculum
    • This curriculum has no representation of queer humans or history.

MOTION: Nikki

That Candy (Treasurer) draft a letter from CPC in response to the pilot curriculum with the glaring absence of any queer inclusion and the ways this will create more unsafe spaces at school for our youth.

SECONDED: Stephen

CARRIED

  • Upcoming regular meetings
    • Regular meeting for planning and connection
      • 1.    Monday, May 10, 2021 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm
      • 2.    Location: online zoom
      • ExpressOUTSIDE
        • We will begin in May for our first walk around Mirror Lake – last Monday evening of May
      • Friends and family meeting
        • On break for Spring/Summer months
  • Sharing circle
  • ADJOURNMENT
    • The meeting was adjourned at 7:25pm   

March 9, 2020 AGM

Posted by Nikki Featherstone on in AGM, Meeting Minutes 0 Comment

Camrose Pride Community
Annual General Meeting
Date: Monday, March 9, 2020   
Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm    Place: Augustana Library, Room B

Attendance:
Executive Leadership:
Agustus Belcourt – Co-chair 1
Zach Stevens – Co-chair 2
Lucas Hill – Secretary
Candy Morningway – Treasurer
Robyn Gray – Member-at-Large
Regrets:
Amielle Christopherson – Member-at-Large
Members:
Stephen McKenzie-Comeau
Staff:
Nikki Meyer-Featherstone – The altView Foundation Liaison

  1. CALL TO ORDER – Gus Belcourt
  2. The Annual General Meeting was called to order at 6:32pm on Monday, March 9, 2019 by Gus Belcourt.
  3. CHANGES TO/APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Lucas Hill
MOTION: Gus Belcourt    That CPC Executive approves the agenda, as presented. SECONDED: Robyn Gray CARRIED
  • 4. FINANCIAL REPORT – Candy Morningway
    • a) The balance sheet and RBC statements have been made available to CPC Executives, and RBC Wave has been utilized to categorize all expenses and create reports.
    • b) A petty cash amount of $368.00 has been made available.
    • c) The General Ledger has been received with a total of $1,952.53 less $133 outstanding fees to be paid.
    • d) Please see attached Financial Reports.
MOTION: Candy Morningway    That financial report be approved as reported. SECONDED: Zach Stevens
CARRIED
MOTION: Candy Morningway    That the two auditors of the financial statements for the AGM selected be the two members-at-large. SECONDED: Nikki Meyer-Featherstone CARRIED
MOTION: Candy Morningway    That approval be made that those elected into executive positions be added to the RBC account with signing authority. SECONDED: Lucas Hill CARRIED
  • 5. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING ACTIONS
    • a) Board Positions
      • Gus Belcourt will continue in his position as Co-chair 1 and Lucas Hill will continue in his position as Secretary.
MOTION: Nikki Featherstone    That Zach Stevens be elected as Co-chair 2. SECONDED: Gus Belcourt
CARRIED
MOTION: Lucas Hill    That Candy Morningway be elected as Treasurer. SECONDED: Zach Stevens CARRIED
MOTION: Lucas Hill    That Robyn Gray be elected as Member-at-Large. SECONDED: Nikki Meyer-Featherstone CARRIED
  MOTION: Lucas Hill    That Stephen McKenzie-Comeau be elected as Member-at-Large SECONDED: Nikki Meyer-Featherstone
CARRIED
  • 6. Bylaws – Amendments
MOTION: Zach Stevens    That the following amendments to the Camrose Pride Society Bylaws be enacted:   II.b:
Original: Any LGBTQ2S+ person and/or ally residing in Camrose, Alberta and the surrounding area who is at least 18 years of age shall be deemed a member of the Society by permitting their name to be included on the member-ship list, and by paying the membership fee, if any, as may be determined by the Society at a general meeting.
Amended: Any LGBTQ2S+ person and/or ally residing in Camrose, Alberta and the surrounding area shall be deemed a member of the Society by permitting their name to be included on the member-ship list as may be determined by the Society at a general meeting.

V.b:
Original: The board shall be comprised of no more than seven and no fewer than five members. Quorum shall be three members (if a five-member board) or four members (if a seven-member board). Term of office shall be two years. Board members may serve a maximum of two, two-year terms unless the majority of Society members approve an additional term.
Amended: The board shall be comprised of no more than seven and no fewer than five members. Quorum shall be three members (if a five-member board) or four members (if a seven-member board). Term of office shall be two years. Board members may serve a maximum of two, two-year terms unless the majority of Society members approve an additional term. Elections will be held on alternating years with even-numbered years pertaining to Co-chair 2 and Treasurer and odd-numbered years pertaining to Co-chair 1 and Secretary. Members-at-Large will be annually elected, with a stated minimum of two Members-at-Large. V.c: Original: A person appointed or elected a director becomes a director if they were present at the annual meeting when being appointed or elected and did not refuse the appointment or election. They may also become a director if they were not present at the meeting but consented in writing to act as a director before the appointment or election.
Amended: A person appointed or elected a director becomes a director if they were present at the annual meeting when being appointed or elected and did not refuse the appointment or election. They may also become a director if they were not present at the meeting but consented in writing to act as a director before the appointment or election. Directors must be of majority of age to be elected.   IX.a:
Original: The Society annual meeting shall be held on the first Monday of February in each year, of which notice by email to the last known address of each member shall be delivered no less than seven (7) days prior to the date of the meeting. At this meeting there shall be elected two Co-Chairs, a Secretary, a Treasurer and up to three directors. Those so elected shall form the Board of Directors and shall serve until their successors are elected at a subsequent Annual Meeting. Any vacancy occurring during the year shall be filled as soon as possible by the remaining Board members for ratification at the next Society meeting.
Amended: The Society annual meeting shall be held during the first quarter of each calendar year, of which notice by email to the last known address of each member shall be delivered no less than seven (7) days prior to the date of the meeting. At this meeting there shall be elected two Co-Chairs, a Secretary, a Treasurer and up to three directors. Those so elected shall form the Board of Directors and shall serve until their successors are elected at a subsequent Annual Meeting. Any vacancy occurring during the year shall be filled as soon as possible by the remaining Board members for ratification at the next Society meeting.

IX.c:
Original: Quorum: Twelve members in good standing, of which five may be a member of an associate member group or agency, shall constitute a quorum at any meeting of the Society.
Amended: Quorum shall be three members (if a five-member board) or four members (if a seven-member board).

 IX.d:
Original: Any member, or member of an associate member group or agency, shall have the right to vote at any meeting of the Society. Such votes must be made in person.
Amended: Any member, or member of an associate member group or agency, shall have the right to vote at any meeting of the Society. Votes may take place electronically. Votes may cast between meetings, including electronically, to be ratified at the next meeting.

SECONDED: Candy Morningway CARRIED
  • 7. Calendar Year
    • a) Pride in the Park – Saturday, June 20th
      • CPC hopes to connect with the Art Festival held by the Camrose Art Society and About Time Productions.
      • CPC would like to expand the festivities this year to include vendors, music, performers, and more. Nikki will speak to altView about potential vendors, etc.
      • Insurance for the event was supported financially by Camrose and District Support Services. Nikki Meyer-Featherstone will contact Margaret Holliston at CDSS about potentially offering that support again this year. Candy Morningway says that insurance through foster park for Director and Officer Insurance can be up to $900.
    • b) Reading with Royalty
      • Nicole at the Camrose Public Library said she would love to have additional Queens/Kings for the Court, and Lucas Hill expressed interest in being included.
    • c) BVJ Parade Float – Thursday, July 30th
      • CPC will make a stronger point to walk with partner organizations (Camrose Public Library, About Time Productions, etc.) by meeting up at a specific point and entering together. We may also signal intent to walk together on application, if possible. We will invite the United Church to walk with us as well.
      • CPC would like to create another strong float this year!
      • BVJ Insurance deadline will be in June.
      • CPC will speak to United Church about creating a strong supportive atmosphere for queer celebration at the location of last year’s protest.
    • d) Family Masquerade Ball – Saturday, October 17th
      • Bailey
        • was already booked for the Saturday, October 24th
        • comes with DJ, but a playlist can be included on a USB.
      • We could invite a Drag performer as part of the entertainment, with Halloween theme
      • Prizes will be included for costume categories.
      • Bracelets will be included to make the event available to all ages.

    • e) Strategic Planning Goals for year one
      • CPC hopes to begin establishing a Youth Council to collaborate with and include younger members. This Youth Council would nominate an Executive Voting member as Youth Representative.
      • CPC hopes to continue with our strong relationship with the United Church.
      • CPC hopes to create a Safe Space program for business to evaluate and instill business practices that support the queer community in Camrose and area.
  • 8. Reports of Homophobia
    • a) A business in town has allegedly been involved with a recent homophobic letter/email sent to protest what looked like their support for a recent Pride Week event in the Chamber of Commerce Friday Flyer. Staff from this business are known to have sent past letters protesting CPC and AQUA events, including events Reading with Royalty at the Camrose Public Library. To our knowledge, the Chamber of Commerce has not responded to this recent alleged incident. The Camrose Public Library responds to all protest letters, and has expressed support of the Camrose Pride Community and the wider queer community.

MOTION: Zach Stevens    Zach Stevens will draft a letter to be sent to this business to address allegations of homophobic statements in this last email. The draft letter will be approved by Camrose Pride Community Executive Members before being sent. SECONDED: Lucas Hill CARRIED
  • b) These incidents further support the need for a system of approving business for inclusion in a potential Safe Space program. Nikki Meyer-Featherstone will contact altView about potential training and ideas.
  • 9. GOOGLE FORMS FEEDBACK
    • a) Mission, Vision, Value statements
      • We will continue to develop our Strategic Goals throughout the year, with collaboration on Mission, Vision, and Value Statements made online. Nikki Meyer-Featherstone has shared those documents with CPC Executive Members. Lucas Hill will create Google Forms to illicit community input.
  • 10. PRIDE WEEK UPDATE
    • a) Achievements
      • The week was a smashing success enjoyed by all! Best turn out for SYTYCD ever!
    • b) Suggestions
      • Pride Movie should occur earlier than 9:30pm.
      • Locations need to be made more explicit on advertisements
      • More events could take place in the community and outside of Augustana Campus.
      • Flag Raising at Chamber of Commerce should take place later on Monday, or possibly on Sunday to officially begin week.
      • There needs to be more collaboration between Camrose Pride Community, Agustana’s AQUA, and the Pride Committee.
      • Cheques and financial obligations should be written out and dealt with before actual events.
      • Engagement with Battle River School Division’s Queer Straight Alliance was floated as an idea, but did not occur. They should be involved and communicated with more intention in the future.
      • There is a lot of possibility for collaboration with Camrose Public Library.
    • c) CPC’s Role
      • CPC is interested in planning and facilitating So You Think You Can Drag, so to streamline the process and to take some stress away from the Pride Committee/Students. Zach Stevens performing as Robyn Bank$ was considered the contact person by many community members, but was in fact not, and this created miscommunication and confusion, which reflects poorly on CPC and the broader Camrose queer community. The monetary benefits would still be used to support the costs of Pride Week.
  • 11. UPCOMING REGULAR MEETINGS
    • a)Regular Meeting for Planning and Connection
      • i)     Monday, April 13th, 2020 at Augustana Library, 6:30pm
    • b) EspressOUT
      • Monday, March 30th, 2020 at Camrose Coffee, 5:30pm to 7:00pm
        • Alternate Location: BP’s Lounge
    • c) Friends and Family Meeting
      • Monday, April 6th, 2020 at the Camrose Public Library – Irving Room, 6:30pm-8:00pm
  • 12. SHARING CIRCLE
  •  13. ADJOURNMENT
    • The meeting was adjourned at 8:32pm

Feb. 10, 2020

Posted by Nikki Featherstone on in Meeting Minutes 0 Comment

Camrose Pride Community
Date: Monday, Feb.10, 2020    
Time: 6:30pm – 8:00pm   
Place: Augustana Library, Room A
Attendance: Gus B., Zach S., Amielle C., Nikki F., Candy M., Stephen C.
Regrets: Lucas H., Robyn G.

  1. Introductions
  2. Financial Report / Bank Account
    1. Financials were emailed to Lucas and Nikki and Lucas has shared to Google Drive as CPS Balance Sheet.
    2. Candy has created a balance sheet – which is what she will work off every meeting; there will be a ledger for each individual item purchased. 
    3. We have the main account and the petty cash account. 
    4. Candy has now paid Lucas for fall family activities and has paid Nikki for Pride hockey tape. 
    5. CPC will have outstanding/upcoming commitments (such as Pride Week, Pride in the Park, etc.) 
    6. Pride in the Park 2019 made: $281.15 (costs were covered with donations and gift cards from the grocery stores).
    7. We now have a standard form to be presented at each meeting that everyone can understand. 
    8. Candy’s work will contribute to the corporate knowledge and access to information and continuity of CPC, as outlined as a goal of CPC. She and the rest of the CPC will work to create financial policies and procedures for the future so whoever is in the Treasurer’s place knows what’s what and what the procedures are.
    9. Status will change the way we bank (non-profit; two people per cheque).
    10. Nikki will send Candy a copy of incorporation to take the bank to update our bank account.
    11. Candy will write cheque for a down payment for our upcoming event.
  3. Society Status and AGM
    1. Congratulations to all our hard work: we have status!
    2. We need an AGM to change those bylaws that were submitted that now need changing. 
    3. AGM is supposed to be first Monday of February; Nikki suggests that March meeting will be AGM to change bylaws. 
    4. CPC needs to choose when our AGM will be in the future
    5. AGM is actually when we look at our audits, which take about 3-6 months after 
    6. We will be doing unofficial audits, as we mature, and we want to be sure that whoever the treasurer is has time to submit paperwork. 
    7. AGM is to have the most number of community people in attendance; could be attached to an event (maybe Pride in the Park?). 
  4. Strategic Planning 
    1. There was a recap of our Strategic Planning Session
    2. Vision Statement, Mission Statement, Values
      1. Vision Statement: Creating safe and inclusive communities for everyone.
      2. Mission Statement: CPC’s mission is to create space for wellness through providing opportunities for education, collaboration, and engagement.
      3. We would like to create feedback form on these to be sent out to the community.
      4. We will spend the next year solidifying our value statements.
      5. Afterwards, we will work on our five year plan. Nikki presented and will make available for members of the exec to read in-depth; she will put in the google drive for people to access. 
      6. We will continue this conversation in March.
      7. Forecast what goals from the strat plan we want to start with first
    3. Our Calendar Year
      1. AGM date
      2. Forecast Event dates
    4. Yearly Events
      1. Pride in the Park
      2. Fall Ball – tentatively
    1. Events
      1. Pride in the Park
      2. Fall Family Dance – tentatively 
        1. Tentatively October 24, 2020
        2. Halloween Masquerade Ball theme
        3. Zach will book the Bailey Theatre for October 24
      3. Fall Ball – Zach’s Drag Show we support
      4. BVJ Parade float
      5. Reading with Royalty
    2. We hope to get an official calendar to set up events for the coming years.
    3. Events need sub-committees to help with organization and cohesion.
  5. Fundraising Opportunities
    1. Queer Paint Nights at Fox and Fable or Brewhouse with Nikki and Zach
    2. Vendors at Pride in the Park to charge for tables
    3. Collaboration
      1. Cat Shelter: adoption event
    4. Booth for Pride Week
      1. selling clothing, binders, tapes, trans inclusive clothing
  6. United Church Meeting
    1. Lucas was unable to attend
    2. Candy met with Colleen and Brian who have a clear mission: strong connections to queer community because of familial relations.
    3. United Church wants to
      1. ensure they are socially aware
      2. create intentionality of perspectives and respect
      3. create safe spaces and related permanent signage
      4. create all-genders/non-gendered washrooms
      5. ‘normalize’ queerness in faith-spaces
      6. create visual awareness of support, especially outside (through rainbows on the bench outside, perhaps) 
      7. create strategies to deal with issues like the BVJ signs
      8. share resources between community groups
      9. use the rainbow more in advertising
      10. continue communication and develop even stronger rapport with queer community groups
    4. United is one of three affirming churches in Camrose, and they’d like that to be promoted. Affirmation is a lengthy process that shows dedication to queer community. This includes training of leaders and bestwos an ‘Affirming Spiritual Organization’ sticker. 
    5. Nikki suggests the creation and inclusion of United in a community diversity committee, which they are open to.
  7. Upcoming Events and Plans
    1. CPC is invited to the Vikings hockey game on Feb. 29th! 
    2. Pride Week Committee Update (Augustana) – Amielle
      1. Schedule of events is available on social media.
      2. Nikki gave Amielle box of pride tape for hockey games.
      3. Lucas will drop off CPC tri-fold for the hockey game on Saturday February 29th.
      4. Are GSAs/QSAs contacted about these events? 
  8. Upcoming Regular Meetings
    1. Regular Meeting for Planning and Connection
      1. March 9, 2020, Augustana Library, 6:30 pm
    2. EspressOUT
      1. Monday, Feb. 24, 2020 5:30pm to 6:30pm – then moving on to Anthony & James speaking at the Augustana Chapel (begins at 7pm) – tickets are between $5-$15 and are on sale now!
      2. Location: Camrose Coffee
      3. Alternate Location if ever needed: BP’s Lounge
    3. Friends and Family Meeting
      1. Next meeting is March 2nd, 2020
      2. 1st Monday of every month, Irving Room at the Library, 6:30pm-8 (new start time)
  9. Sharing Circle

Jan. 13, 2020

Posted by Nikki Featherstone on in Meeting Minutes 0 Comment

Camrose Pride Community
Date: Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2020    
Time: 6:00pm – 8:00pm    Place: Camrose Library, Irving Room
Attendance: Zach S., Gus B., Candy M., Nikki F., Lucas H, Robyn G, Amielle C.

  1. Introductions
  1. Financial Report/Bank Account
    1. The RBC account is open. 
    2. Received funds and last statement from CDSS. Passing to Treasurer to deposit and input into our new accounting spreadsheets.
    3. Online Banking is available to be used.
    4. Candy, our treasurer, has the transfer from CDSS and will deposit it immediately.
      1. The total is $2165.40 (minus one reimbursement o/s).
      2. Candy will get cheques when we receive society status.
      3. There is no report of changing funds.
  1. Society Status
    1. Our society status application came back with minor errors. We have corrected errors in signatures, everyone has signed, and Nikki will resend this week.
  1. Upcoming Events and Plans
    1. Pride Week Committee Update (Augustana) – Amielle C.
  • Bake Sale – Wednesday, February 26th at 11:00am to 3:00pm in the Augustana Forum
    • Candy and Gus agreed (in December) to make some baking for this.
    • If you know of someone else willing to bake and donate, please let them know. 
    • The baking can be anything, but please include ingredient lists.
  • LGBT Trivia – Tuesday, February 25th in the late morning/early afternoon in the Augustana Forum
    • In the past one of the science clubs have done some trivia, but that is quickly becoming dated.
    • AQUA has requested that CPC create questions for this casual trivia.
    • Lucas H. will make make a Google Doc to share with CPC and queer community members to crowd source questions.
    • Questions Possibilities:
      • Pronouns
      • Laws and Legislation
      • History (When did the Stonewall Riot take place? Who threw the first brick?)
      • Acronyms
      • Culture
      • Fetishes
  • Pride Week Committee (PWC): inquires if CPC would be willing to donate some funds to host throughout the week.
    • PWC is hoping to apply for a lot of funds in the coming weeks.
    • CPC may hold off on committing funds until our Strategic Planning meeting.
    • CPC donated $500 last year to Pride Week.
    • There is time to donate up until the event and afterwards for outstanding fees.
  • Key Speakers: James and Anthony from The Amazing Race Canada: Monday, February 24th at 6:00pm to 8:00pm in the Augustana Chapel
    • Tickets will be between $10-$15. AQUA will look into the option of creating donation options for tickets.
    • Students may be free or discounted fee (including primary, secondary, and post-secondary).
  • Pride Movies: Thursday, February 27th at 8:00pm at the Duggan Cinema
    • PWC requests that CPC members check what DVDs they have, as a DVD may be required for Public Performance Rights.
    • DVDs can also be rented from the library or the movie store. If you have suggestions, please forward them to Amielle.
  • Queer Art Making: Thursday, February 27th in the evening, location Wahkohtowin Lodge
  • So You Think You Can Drag: Friday, February 28th from 7:00pm-10:00pm at Bailey Theatre
    • Performers are needed; if you know interested parties, please connect them to Amielle C.
    • Drag attendance has been going up
    • Confirmed professional performers include Edmonton queens Sami, Armani, and Camrose queen Robyn Bank$.
    • AQUA hopes to have the sign-up sheet out by the end of January. 
    • Zach S. will inquire with drag colleagues in Edmonton about attending.
    • Zach will donate some prizes; if you know of other business that may be willing to donate, please connect them with Amielle C.
    • Nikki F informed us that in April the Unitarian Church of Edmon is having an Amateur Drag Show. This may be a good way to connect/cross-promote.
  • There will be QR Codes at all the events; each event attended is an entry to win prizes.
  • Organizations donating include:
    • Poe Da Lue
    • Travelling Tickle Trunk
    • Rebel Ink
  • Hockey Games will take place Sunday, February 23rd to start the week and Saturday, February 29th to end the week.
    • Amielle C. makes a motion for CPC to purchase a roll of pride tape for the Camrose Pride Week Hockey Games
      • Seconded by Nikki
      • Motion Carried
    • Nikki F. Will get Pride Tape for about $136.00/12 rolls and create an Expense Claim.
  • Advertising will begin next week. Please let your friends, family, and colleagues know.
  1. Strategic Planning Meeting: Friday, January 31st from 6:00pm to 9:00pm and Saturday, February 1st (day) (NOTE: LEADERSHIP TEAM ONLY)
    1. Location TBD
    2. Leadership members please consider the following to prepare for the meeting:
      1. What is your vision for Camrose Pride Community in the next:
        1. 1 year?
        2. 5 years?
        3. 10 years?
        4. 20 years?
      2. What changes should be made to our Mission, Vision, and Value Statements?
      3. What future partnerships with what organizations do you envision?
      4. What events or activities would you like to work towards?
  2. Pride in the Park
    1. Camrose Recreation Guide wants March to August activities and was wondering if we had a date for our Pride in the Park
    2. CPC has decided on Saturday, June 20th 2:00pm to 6:00pm at Jubilee Park
      1. This is the same date as Art in the Park, which could increase visibility and create a future partnership.
  1. Meeting Locations: Room at the Library for 2020
    1. Bunker can be booked for most of the year, but not in the summer months (May, June, July, August).
    2. Irving Room is most likely not going to be able to be booked for our meetings this year, with all the other groups in need of it.
    3. The Irving Room is booked for February 10, 2020.
    4. Amielle C. will look into booking conference rooms at Augustana during the summer months.
    5. Amielle C. will look into booking a conference room for our Strategic Planning Session for Friday, January 31st and Saturday, February 1st .
    6. Amielle C. will look into booking student study rooms for meetings in the future. 
  1. United Church
    1. The United Church has requested a follow-up/debriefing on the experience with Pam Rocker.
    2. They are wanting to meet and go through the Church, asking for input on how they can become more PIE (Public, Intentional, Explicit) in their support of the queer community. 
      1. They would like two members of the Pride Community for this
      2. They also want us to potentially bring ideas to them, such as:
        1. What is their advertising like?
    3. AQUA has a Queer Folks of the Bible during Pride Week with Pastor Craig.
      1. Nikki would like to put together an interfaith queer group.
    4. Candy is already there from 1:00pm to 5:00pm on Sundays, which may be a good time. Lucas is available on Sundays as well. Nikki will contact about potential Sundays available to the United Church.
  2. Camrose Community Group Grant
    1. Can we meet the deadline, which is Jan. 20? Maybe we should look for the following one in June.
    2. Pride in the Park would fall into the time period, but also would fall in the next granting period’s timeline.
    3. Art Therapy Group: Alberta Society for the Promotion of Sexual Health funded Nikki $2,000 for an art therapy group to be run through Canadian Mental Health for pre-teens to adults. This may be a great opportunity to shore up the necessary funds to start this group.
    4. CPC members are also interested in potentially creating a future ArtHive, which would act as a free art space for community members. 
  1. Upcoming Regular Meetings
    1. Regular Meeting for Planning and Connection
      1. Feb. 10, 2020
        1. Amielle C. will look into finding space.
    2. EspressOUT
      1. Monday, January 27, 2020 5:30pm – 7:00pm
        1. Location: Camrose Coffee
        2. Gus will remind Sarah.
        3. Alternate Location if ever needed: BP’s Lounge
    3. Friends and Family Meeting
      1. Next meeting is Feb. 3rd, 2020
        1. 1st Monday of every month, Irving Room at the Library, 6:30pm-8 (new start time)
  1. Sharing Circle

Dec. 9, 2019

Posted by Nikki Featherstone on in Meeting Minutes 0 Comment


Date: Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2019   
Time: 6:00pm – 8:00pm    
Place: Co-Chair Zach’s home
Attendance: Gus B., Lucas H., Candy M., Zach S., Nikki F., Stephen C. (Ugly Sweater Wearer), Ron
Regrets: Amielle C., Robyn G.

  1. Introductions
  • Financial Report / Bank Account
    • Update: We have a bank account!
      • CPC now has an RBC account that is currently a Community Group Account with Candy and Nikki as authorized signatories. We need to maintain this until we get our Non-Profit Status, and then they will switch the account status and we can add the other members of the Leadership Team Executive. Camrose Pride Society is the official name. The Leadership signed a letter as requested by RBC to attain status.
      • Candy, as Treasurer, will have the only access to online banking for our account. Due to this, we will build a policy where the Treasurer will present the bank statement showing all activity in and out of the account each month, along with the Financial Report as usual, at the monthly meeting. There will be a list of working budgets for future events. There will be budget vs. actual provided at all times.
      • We can set up EFT (electronic fund transfer) for donations or payments.
      • Margaret H. will be closing down our CDSS account and sending us a cheque at the end of the year.
      • Pam Rocker cost us $200.
      • Family Dance cost close to our $500 budget.
      • We made $368 from the Family Dance.
      • Candy will create strong succession documents, and will create a financial policies and procedures that will connect to our by-laws.
      • Candy has created an expense claim form. Please take pictures of your receipts, submit them digitally, and bring your receipts to physical meetings. There will be no payouts without the expense claim filled out.
      • Our accounting will be audited in the future as we gain society status, so we should have procedures in place to prepare for that.
      • We are registered as a community group because we are not a registered non-profit. When we gain society status, we can move forward with signing more people up to the bank account.
      • RBC has grants as well.
  • Upcoming Events and Plans
    • Pride Week Committee Update (Augustana) – Amielle
      • They are looking for baking for the bake sale, and help with set-up and take down.
      • They would also like people (particularly knowledgeable about our community) to be available for a Q&A.
        • This Q&A would be very individualized and personal.
      • We may look at this more in January when it is closer.
      • Candy and Gus have agreed to create a bit of baking.
      • Gus spoke to Megan, the Indigenous Support Liaison at Augustana about the Indigenous Welcoming Lodge, hoping to have a weekly Metis sharing circle.
      • The Amazing Race winner, Anthony Johnson, will be our speaker for the Camrose Pride Week. Gus is hoping to involve him in an Indigenous Sharing Circle.
      • Candy has let us know that Edmonton has a very strong Two Spirit group, so there may be some connections there for the future.
  • Room at the Library for 2020 – What do we need? What do we want?
    • Bunker can be booked for most of the year, but not in the summer months
    • Irving room can only be booked 3 months in advance, and there’s lots of other community groups looking for space now with the shutdown of the drill hall
    • Candy has offered Quantum Comics, because it is closed on Mondays, and would be a good space. Private and we can be as late as we want.
    • Nikki has already confirmed the Irving Room at CPL for the first two months of 2020. We will revisit the Quantum Comics space at our January meeting, as we’d like to move the time to 6:30-8:30, but the Library closes at 8pm.
  • CSL Placements Update
    • Research Projects: – Research received
    •  Things to work on in 2020:
      • Best Practices for Safe Spaces Allyship Agreements:
        •  Links to other safe space policies, as well as recommendations that an education around allyship – perhaps a workshop for businesses? – be completed first, as much of the problem is ignorance rather than malice.
        • Example of an Agreement template submitted as a jumping off document.
        • Education seems to be missing. Majority of places are not non-inclusive because they are malicious, but instead because they are unaware. Without education, it is just a token.
        • Downtown Retailers Co-op and the Chamber are possibilities to have presentations. We can do education, create agreements, and then receive a Safe Space Sticker. The Camrose Police could definitely be involved. Candy would love to be included in the presentation. Nikki suggests involving AltView in those conversations with their training and toolkits.
      • List of Support Groups – local area for Queer folks within faith groups with traditionally queerphobic literature:
        • Some links and book resources, but not a lot in our area. Needs further study and/or advocacy.
        • We may be able to provide a lot of support online, but most groups do not meet in Camrose. Pam also included a lot of resources.
        • Nikki will ask Pam about an inter-faith support group. She may have contacts.
        • Nikki was interested about creating an inter-faith group and inviting leaders of those communities that share our values to support.
        • Stephen suggests talking to queer groups in Edmonton that are faith based along with Pride Edmonton.
        • Nikki would definitely work with CSL students in the future.
  • Volunteering Opportunities in the Future
    • Pan Fest
    • Casino List
    • We should also explore foundational grants.
  • Upcoming Regular Meetings
    • Regular Meeting for Planning and Connection
      • January 13, 2020, Library, Irving Room
      • Candy motions to move meeting time to 6:30pm to 8:30pm in the future, excepting January, where we will meet at 6:00pm.
        • Nikki passes motion
    • EspressOUT
      • Monday, December 30, 2019 5:30pm – 7:00pm
        • Location: Camrose Coffee
        • Alternate Location: (if there is ever a problem)
          • Boston Pizza
    • Friends and Family Meeting
      • Next meeting: January 6, 2020
        • 1st Monday of every month, Irving Room at the Library,6:30pm-8:00pm
  • Sharing Circle

November 12, 2019

Posted by Nikki Featherstone on in Meeting Minutes 0 Comment
Camrose Pride Community
Date: Tuesday, Nov 12, 2019
Time: 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Place: Camrose Public Library Irving Meeting Room

Attendance: Gus B., Nikki F., Lucas H., Stephen, Zack S., Robyn G., Amielle C., Ron

  1. Introductions
  2. Pride Committee Update (Augustana) – Amielle
    1. 2 meetings about Pride Week – February
    2. Mayoral Hall at Augustana booked for the Monday night.
    3. CPC is invited to all events. If you have suggestions for more events, or would like to take part, please contact Amielle C. 
    4. Events:
      1. Bake Sale
      2. So You Think You Can Drag
      3. Pride Photo – Thursday
      4. Tickle Trunk
      5. Art Therapy – Queer Paint Night
      6. Zine Making Workshop
      7. Monday, February 24th at 9:00am at Bill Fowler – Flag Raising (guaranteed every year)
      8. Augustana will also have a flag raising, probably at about 10:00am
      9. Movie at Duggan. If you have suggestions, please give them to Amielle C. 
      10. Pride Hockey Game on first Sunday and last Sunday 
    5. There is another meeting on November 19th. If you’d like to join, please contact Amielle C. 
  3. Augustana Climate Strike
    1. Friday, November 29th, 1:30pm at Camrose City Hall from Augustana Campus.
    2. October’s strike had about 200 people involved.
    3. The strikers will provide actionable points to City Hall. 
    4. Camrose is a Blue Dot city and has goals. 
    5. There will also be a letter writing campaign. If interested, please contact Amielle C. Amielle C. Will give information to Nikki F. To send out to everyone.
  4. Financial Report / Bank Account
    1. Update: Open a Camrose Pride Bank Account & Assign Signing Authority
      1. Appointment made, Nov. 14th at TD Bank, 10am – Nikki & Candy to open account
      2. Minutes from last meeting were signed by signatories. Gus, Zach, Lucas & Candy
        1. They will be provided to the financial institution – Once the bank account is opened, each Signatory will have to go to the bank and sign the bank’s documents. Once this is complete, we can transfer all funds from CDSS, and our Treasurer (Candy) will handle the finances. 
    2. Pastor Deborah has been invoiced from Pam Rocker. 
    3. CPC will pay around $400 for travel expenses to Pam Rocker. 
  5. Upcoming Events and Plans
    1. Fall Family Dance Party – THIS SATURDAY! Nov. 16th, 7-10pm
      1. Tickets – Everyone buy your tickets! And SHARE the event on social media please!
      2. Door Prizes update
        1. Haven – Nikki F.
        2. Rebel Ink – Zach S.
        3. Fox and Fable – Amielle C.
        4. Fika – Amielle C.
        5. Retro – Carmen
        6. Evolve – Zach S.
        7. Duggan Cinema – Zach S.
        8. Trish’s Fashion and Finery – Zach S.
      3. Nikki will be on the country radio station with Ethan on Thursday. 
      4. Quantum has only sold one ticket. 
      5. Volunteers please arrive at 6:00pm
      6. Lucas will pick up streamers and Go-go lights from Dollarama.   
      7. Nikki F. Will bring a cash box and float.  
  6. Pam Rocker Update – THIS SUNDAY!!! Nov. 17th!  EVERYONE SHARE THE EVENTS!
    1. Sunday 10am – Sermon at the United Church, potluck lunch to follow
      1. Burnt Toast for the Journey with Pam Rocker

        What does Burnt Toast have to do with a celebration of difference? How do we move beyond what we ever thought we could? Is it worth it to risk being a little uncomfortable? Did Jesus eat gluten? Join Pam Rocker for storytelling and exploring the sacred and unique ways we can see each other.
    2. Sunday 1:30-3pm – Workshop at the Bethel Lutheran (near Duggan Park) 4102 73rd Street
      1. Coming Out In Faith: A Look at Religion, Inclusion, and PIE

        Buzzwords like ‘inclusivity’ and ‘diversity’ abound, yet the tangible actions behind them often go unexplored. Religion at large has imposed artificial binaries that have fractured our sense of kinship and belonging, especially for LGBTQ2S+ people and other communities who have been considered antithetical to genuine faith.
        And what about PIE?! The acronym of PIE (Public, Intentional, Explicit) embodies a guiding map and litmus test for people who want to be more tangibly affirming, whether as an individual or organization.
  7. CSL Placements Update
    1. They both will be volunteering at the dance on Saturday – a turn at the door selling tickets and will stay to help clean up at 10pm. Daniella and Kyla
    2. Research projects: – They are in progress
      1. Best Practices for Safe Spaces Allyship Agreements
      2. List of Support Groups – local area for Queer folks within faith groups with traditional homophobia literature 
  8. Upcoming Regular Meetings
    • Regular Meeting for Planning and Connection
    • XMAS POTLUCK/ugly sweater – Monday, December 9th, 2019 6:00pm – 8:00pm at Zack’s house. Everyone is invited. 
    • EspressOUT
      • Monday, November 25th, 2019 5:30pm – 7:00pm
      • Location: Camrose Coffee 
      • Theme: Holiday 
      • No EspessOUT in December
    • Friends and Family Meeting
      • Next meeting is December 2nd. 
      • 1st Monday of every month, Irving Room at the Library, 6pm
    • Beers for Queers
      • December 13th at Fox and Fable
      • Tickets $7 on Eventbrite at the Aqua Facebook Page
  9. Sharing Circle