The Jefferson City Human Relations Commission has all of its members once again as original commissioner Jame Wade decided to remain on the commission.
The Jefferson City Council approved Wade's application to the Human Relations Commission in December. However, she told the News Tribune last month she could not serve on the commission due to business obligations.
At the commission's second meeting earlier this month, Wade told the News Tribune she could now serve on the commission since the meetings would be in the morning.
The Jefferson City Council on Administration approved an applicant to fill Wade's commission spot earlier this month. However, the council did not give its final approval Monday night since Wade said she would remain on the commission.
Editor's Note: Answers have been edited for clarity and length. Profiles of the other members of the commission were published Jan. 28.
Jami Wade
Job: Owner of Capitol City CORK and Provisions; founder of Capitol City Cinema
Years in Jefferson City: Raised in Jefferson City, moved and returned in 2008
What is your background and how does it relate to the Human Relations Commission?
A. My first professional job was as a classroom teacher at Hickman High School where I taught in the Social Studies Department from 1995-2010. I was also very involved in activities as a sponsor of Student Government, Trireme (a senior girls service organization), and I was the founding sponsor of The Global Issues Club. My work with students both in and out of the classroom gives me a unique perspective on how to engage the younger members of our community. Engaging and offering educational opportunities for our community is one of the biggest goals of this commission.
What motivated you to join the Human Relations Commission?
A. The Human Relations Commission provides an excellent opportunity to give back to my community. With my background in education and the focus of the commission to provide education to our community, this felt like a very organic fit for me.
What are your goals for the Human Relations Commission and how do you hope to accomplish those?
A. My goal is to provide community events and conversations where we can engage with one another and find that we have far more in common than not. I also want to promote those in our community that might feel like they haven't been represented or that they haven't had a voice. Recognizing that our differences can often be our greatest assets. Providing an outlet for all members to participate and be heard is a worthy goal. Promoting tolerance and respect for every member of our community is critical in achieving that goal.
Q. What features do you think Jefferson City offers that will benefit the Human Relations Commission's goals?
A. I am so overwhelmed at the generosity of our community. I think it is one of our greatest strengths. It is my belief that if this community is called upon to act and to be self-reflective on what we can do to improve on our weaknesses, we will do just that.
What challenges do you think the Human Relations Commission will face?
A. We are all so busy with the day-to-day that I think our biggest challenge will be engaging people, primarily those we need to engage the most. One of our greatest tasks will be to make sure people are aware of our outreach.