Brookhaven names members to Social Justice, Race and Equity Commission

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Brookhaven, GA, Oct. 28, 2020 – At its regular business meeting on Oct. 27, the City of Brookhaven appointed the initial members to its new Social Justice, Race and Equity Commission. The City Council approved a resolution establishing the Commission in September.

The members are:

David Alexander, Rene Alvarez, Shahrukh Arif, Charlene Bowden, Davis Burnett, Vena Cain, Karen Cariello, Loven Collins, Chris Corces-Zimmerman, Amy Corn, Jose Hardy, Josh Hearshen, Jeremiah Hinson, Monique Hudson, Danita Knight, Tywana Minor, James Moses, Catherine Murithi-Wohl, William Naglich, Kirk Nelson, Janis Niesse, Melissa Owen, Matthew Paetzhold, Marco Palma, Tiffany Russell, William Thomas, Conni Todd, Anibal Torres, Kathy Wells, Beth Wendl, and Thomas Woodward.

“In light of recent unrest and demonstrations, we felt it necessary to not only start a conversation, but also enact a framework that will result in real action,” said District 3 Councilwoman Madeleine Simmons, who spearheaded the effort to establish the Commission. “We need a forum to have open conversations on race, diversity, social justice and equity.  I look forward to the Commission’s discussions, proposed initiatives and recommendations.”

The Council appointed John J. Funny as the Chair of the Commission prior to naming the volunteer members, who were required to complete an application process. Funny serves on the City’s Planning Commission and the board of the Brookhaven Police Foundation.

“Issues of social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion are best addressed when the entire community is engaged,” said Funny, who came up with the idea for the Commission. “I’m very excited to serve as Chair of the Brookhaven Social Justice, Race and Equity Commission at the pleasure of the Mayor and Council. I look forward to working with the appointed members, Mayor and Council, and the community at-large to continue the work of building and nurturing a sense of a diverse community.”