Board Hopeful Human Rights Feedback May Boost Funding

The Moscow Human Rights Commission is preparing a report to the City Council, using insights from students who attended September's Better Together Dinner. This report, aimed at securing increased funding, will be presented early next year to the new mayor and City Council. Chair Erin Agidius highlighted the commission's need for adequate funding and clear communication, particularly after this fiscal year's budget cut, which reduced funding from $6,000 to $3,250. The commission organizes numerous events, and the reduced budget has raised concerns over its capacity to continue these initiatives. Nominations for the 2026 Rosa Parks Human Rights Achievement Awards are currently being accepted until January 13, with winners announced at the Martin Luther King Jr.

Human Rights Community Breakfast on January 24. In a recent meeting, the commission decided to postpone a $300 expenditure for event buttons, opting to conserve its remaining $2,000 budget until closer to the events. Furthermore, the commission expressed its intent to organize a social justice event addressing antisemitism, responding to resident concerns raised in previous meetings. The planned initiatives reflect the commission's commitment to enhancing community engagement and advocacy for human rights.