Human Rights Coalition Holds Annual Meeting, Examines Social Inclusion

The Stutsman County Human Rights Coalition held its annual membership meeting Thursday evening, November 20, at the Jamestown Arts Center in Jamestown. Members and the public gathered from 7 p.m. to 10 54 p.m. to hear a year end review, vote on leadership positions including vice president, secretary and member at large, and listen to a featured presentation titled Insiders and Outsiders in the Bible.

Following the organizational business, Dr. Steven Reed presented on themes of inclusion and exclusion in religious texts, a topic intended to prompt local discussion about who is recognized and who is left out of community life. Snacks and drinks were available to attendees, and the meeting offered a space for social connection after a year of coalition activities and outreach.

The coalition frames its work around a broad commitment to end discrimination. The organization states, "The Stutsman County Human Rights Coalition purpose is to inspire and engage individuals and the community to understand and strive to end discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, class, creed, religion, political affirmation, sexual orientation, gender identity, and physical, intellectual, or mental disability." That mission ties directly to public health by addressing the social and structural conditions that shape physical and mental wellbeing.

Local implications are practical and immediate. Discrimination and exclusion worsen stress, limit access to preventive care, and create barriers to housing employment and education. A stronger, more inclusive community can reduce those harms and improve outcomes across populations that already face disparities. Meetings like Thursday night serve as forums for community members to raise concerns, learn about rights and resources, and push for policy changes at the local level that can expand equitable access to services.

The coalition meets regularly on the third Thursday of each month at 7 00 p.m. at the Jamestown Arts Center, 115 2nd Street SW, and its meetings are open to members and the public. For residents concerned about discrimination or interested in civic participation, the group offers a continuing place to engage with neighbors and local leaders on issues that affect health and social equity.