CRC Newsletter | December 2024
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Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. believed in celebrating and promoting the worth of every human being. In his pursuit of equal rights by nonviolent means, Dr. King encouraged diverse cultures to live together in a spirit of love, understanding and service to one another.
In that same spirit, the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, through their Community Relations Committee, worked together to expand our community’s observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day through the Charlotte-Mecklenburg MLK National Holiday Celebration. Through these events, we celebrate those who are committed to carrying Dr. King’s legacy forward from generation to generation.
The 2025 celebration will begin on Wednesday, Jan. 15 with the Atrium Health Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Service at Marshall Park from noon to 1 p.m. and conclude on Sunday, Jan. 19 with the Atrium Health National Observance and CMS Arts & Writing Contest Awards from 4–6 p.m. at the Parr Center Theater on the campus of Central Piedmont Community College.
Community Receives Update on the State of the CRC
By Cheryl Tuning, CRC Member
In October, the community had the opportunity to attend the State of the Community Relations Committee (CRC) address. This event was led by CRC Chair Sam Smith Jr. and featured updates from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Community Relations department Deputy Director Terry Bradley and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) Deputy Chief Jacquelyn Bryley.
The CRC strives to maintain transparency in its work and wants to ensure that the community is informed about the committee’s strategy and partnerships that help move the mission forward. Smith shared the committee’s priorities, the great work being done throughout the community and the ambitious vision for the future. Bradley provided information on the impactful programs and resources offered through the Community Relations department and Bryley spoke on CMPD’s ongoing initiatives and how the community can be involved and support these programs.
Some of the highlights related to the work of Community Relations include:
- Ongoing Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) training sessions and Lunch & Learns to elevate conversations about disabilities across the community.
- Expanding youth programs focused on conflict resolution, leadership and civic engagement.
- Weekly mediation services in Private Warrant Court, the work being done with the State of NC to mediate Medicaid Appeals, and the mediation of landlord tenant, neighbor, consumer/merchant and HOA disputes.
- Expanding discrimination training to realtors, lenders and appraisers, and increasing community awareness of fair housing regulations.
CRC members work closely with Community Relations staff and identify ways to support the programs offered.
Bryley shared some of CMPD’s initiatives and the ways they are connecting with the community:
- The Police Activities League (PAL) program is a summer youth camp that allows police officers to play, coach and connect with young people on a personal level. The program runs through most of the summer and has had so much success in recent years that capacity is continuously growing!
- Various programs that provide conflict resolution, violence identification and techniques for de-escalating heated situations.
- CMPD officers actively engage with the community by attending events out of uniform to break down barriers.
- New partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Carolinas.
- Leveraging technology for early intervention and continuous improvement for understanding and responding to various calls for service.
- In 2025, one of CMPD’s primary focuses will be on reducing teen violence by engaging young people to help problem solve.
Learn more about CMPD’s community programs.
In the closing of the State of the CRC address, Smith thanked CRC members and the entire community for their engagement in the work being done to continue making Charlotte a great place to live. He also invited and encouraged the community to volunteer, connect with the committee and attend upcoming CRC events.
CRC Event Encourages Community to Think Local, Act Global
By Kimberly Nelson, CRC Member
In September, the CRC’s public relations subcommittee hosted an impactful Think Local, Act Global panel discussion. The event, held during Welcoming Week, highlighted the contributions and challenges of Charlotte’s immigrant communities and the essential role they play in the city’s growth. CRC members kicked off the discussion by reinforcing the committee’s dedication to fostering diversity, equity and access by creating spaces for open dialogue and community engagement.
More than 40 community members gathered at Cordelia Park’s Indoor Pavilion for an engaging panel discussion facilitated by CRC members Lana Sheikha and Kimberly Nelson. The conversation brought together a distinguished group of speakers, including:
- Aleksandra Degernes, Eastern European Business Network
- Saira Estrada, City of Charlotte
- Lauren Rogers, International House
- Paul Nelson and Dede Sama, The African Think Tank
- Willie Fleming, International Minority Coalition
Insights and Highlights from the Panel
One of the key themes discussed was the importance of community unity and leadership in fostering inclusivity. Aleksandra Degernes highlighted the value of “cultural pockets” as essential spaces that offer support and resources for immigrants. She also urged leaders to encourage connections beyond these communities to cultivate trust and create a more inclusive Charlotte. She emphasized that “growth begins when we open our minds beyond cultural boundaries.”
Saira Estrada reflected on the Cambodian community’s resilience in preserving cultural heritage while integrating into the broader society. She stressed that accountability in leadership can be achieved through community unity, tough questions and open dialogue. She emphasized the need for the community to “come together as one voice to address common issues,” noting examples of unity in places like Durham, NC that can serve as a model for Charlotte. Estrada also highlighted the need for inclusive spaces where individuals can maintain their cultural identity without fear, fostering a sense of belonging and respect. She also called for inclusive spaces that respect cultural identities, urging city support through active listening and leadership, to better meet immigrant needs.
Building on the idea of community empowerment, Lauren Rogers shared International House’s mission to empower immigrants and foster community ties, stating that “when immigrants thrive, Charlotte thrives.” This sentiment resonated with attendees, including Binti Muzuri Tady, an immigrant who expressed gratitude for International House’s support in helping her adapt and thrive in her new home.
Shifting the focus to leadership, Paul Nelson and Dede Sama highlighted the critical role of community leaders in promoting understanding and collaboration across ethnic lines. Nelson noted the need for “authentic leaders” who can unite diverse groups, while Sama added that “every culture has unique contributions” in addressing global challenges like climate change. Their discussion underscored the power of cross-cultural collaboration in building stronger, more inclusive communities.
Willie Fleming then spoke about the International Minority Coalition’s efforts to unite cultures through annual events that celebrate diverse traditions, cuisine and attire. He stressed the importance of collective action and social accountability to address challenges, particularly through holding elected officials responsible for their actions. Fleming’s comments tied back to the panel’s broader themes of unity and the collective responsibility to ensure that all communities are heard and represented.
Charlotte’s Evolving Demographics and Immigrant Impact
The discussion included data underscoring Charlotte’s significant immigrant population. According to WFAE, over 17% of Charlotte’s population is foreign-born, a number that has nearly tripled since 2000. Furthermore, the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance reports that Mecklenburg County’s international migration saw a 30% increase, reflecting the city’s appeal as a hub for diverse communities and international businesses, which now exceed 1,000 in Charlotte alone.
Connecting to the CRC’s Vision
As the evening concluded, CRC members highlighted their ongoing commitment to advancing dialogue and understanding across communities. The CRC’s vision is to be recognized as a global model in building community harmony by advocating for diversity, equity and access for all. CRC aims to engage the community and create pathways for positive outcomes.
“The insights shared tonight highlight the power of leadership and unity and the need to move beyond cultural silos to tackle common challenges,” said Kimberly Nelson.
As Charlotte continues to grow, the CRC remains dedicated to making programs and services accessible to all residents, fostering an inclusive and vibrant community that thrives on the contributions of its immigrant population.
By bringing together diverse voices, the CRC’s panel highlighted the importance of collaboration and understanding.
“Charlotte is stronger when everyone feels they belong,” said Lana Sheikha.
In connection with the discussions held during the panel, the following links highlight important global cultural observances:
CRC Hosts Landlord/Tenant Forum
By Sonya Black, CRC Member
The CRC’s representative liaison subcommittee recently hosted a Landlord/Tenant forum to inform and educate the community about landlord and tenant rights and responsibilities. The forum featured a panel discussion led by representatives from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Community Relations, Legal Aid of North Carolina and City of Charlotte Code Enforcement. This event provided a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions, have concerns addressed and share past and current housing needs.
The Community Relations department and Legal Aid of North Carolina have developed a When You Rent handbook to provide a comprehensive guide to rental laws and practices for renters and landlords. Public and private service agencies may also use the handbook to keep their clients informed. Access to essential information about state and local maintenance codes, dispute resolutions, the code enforcement process, and understanding of the connections between health and housing are all key to maintaining healthy rental housing.
The When You Rent handbook is available in English and Spanish.
Nominate a Community Hero
As the holiday season approaches, let’s take a moment to recognize the outstanding work of our local law enforcement.
If you know an officer who has significantly and positively impacted your neighborhood, please consider nominating them for the 45th Annual Police-Community Relations Awards. This awards program, hosted by the CRC, recognizes officers who go above and beyond to build positive relationships within our community. Nominations by community members are essential to the success of the awards program and help strengthen the bond between our community and law enforcement. Let’s celebrate the heroes who protect and serve our community.
“This year, I’m particularly impressed by Officer Chidester from the Steele Creek Division”, said CRC member Joi Mayo. “His proactive approach to addressing community concerns, such as the recent incident involving stray bullets shot into a home, demonstrates a genuine commitment to public safety. Officer Chidester’s willingness to listen, respond and provide additional support to the Nations Ford/Arrowood area is commendable.”
CRC Member Named a 2024 Best in the Nest Award Winner
Queen City Nerve recently named Joi Mayo, CRC member and chair of the CRC public relations subcommittee, Best Community Organizer for 2024!
This recognition highlights Mayo’s unwavering commitment to empowering the Nations Ford/Arrowood Corridor. As the founder and board chair of Transforming Nations Ford she has provided visionary leadership in fostering equity, inclusion, and opportunity for all.
Under Mayo’s guidance, Transforming Nations Ford, a community development nonprofit, has achieved incredible milestones, including community-driven advocacy campaigns, transformative programs, and partnerships that make a tangible difference in the lives of area residents.
Join us in celebrating Mayo’s well-deserved honor and tireless dedication to creating a thriving, connected community!
Hidden Valley Community Association Hosts Successful Fall Festival
On October 12, 2024, the Hidden Valley Community Association (HVCA) held its annual Fall Festival at the Parkwood Institutional CME Church. The organization’s mission is to advocate, educate, enhance and promote a safe and well-maintained neighborhood for Hidden Valley residents. More than 200 people from the community attended the Fall Festival that included a flea market with over 50 vendor tables where small businesses sold hand-crafted merchandise, clothing and specialty items. Atrium Health’s Mobile Truck provided free health screens and blood pressure checks. Food vendors were also onsite to feed attendees while raising funds for HVCA’s initiatives and future events. A special shout out to our very own CRC for being in attendance and having community resources and information available, and engaging with HVCA. It was a phenomenal event where people came together to make new friends and community connections. We hope to see you there next year!
Stay in the loop about the CRC’s key initiatives, programs, community events and more.
Governor Roy Cooper Signs African Diaspora Heritage Month Proclamation
For the first time in North Carolina’s history, September was proclaimed African Diaspora Heritage Month!
Governor Roy Cooper demonstrated his commitment to inclusivity by signing the African Diaspora Heritage Month Proclamation and meeting with The African Think Tank leadership and members of the City of Charlotte intergovernmental relations team. The African Think Tank serves as a transformative force for the African Diaspora, fostering belonging, entrepreneurial success, higher education exchanges and global commerce through impactful programming.
This milestone was made possible thanks to the collaboration of Johnson C. Smith University, The African Think Tank and representatives from the Governor’s Office.
Are You Familiar with the City and County’s Source of Income Protections Policy?
On August 22, 2022, the Charlotte City Council approved a Source of Income Protections policy for any city supported funding developments. The Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners mirrored the policy on September 20, 2022. The Source of Income Protections policy makes it such that any housing provider or supported development that receives funding from the city or county will be in violation of the policy if it refuses to accept lawful sources of income from a prospective residential tenant that otherwise would have qualified for the property.
Lawful sources of income include verifiable wages, unexpired government or private assistance, grants, loans, or rental assistance programs, including vouchers directly or indirectly funded by the federal government or other rental subsidy programs. Funds from an inheritance, pension, annuity, alimony, or child support can also be considered a lawful source of income, if verifiable.
If a provider is found in violation of the Source of Income Protection Policy, they will receive a written warning and mandatory compliance training as a warning. A second violation will result in compliance training and a daily fee of $500 until the violation is cured. If the provider has three or more violations, they will receive a written notification of default and be required to refund any funds provided by the city or county for the applicable project. Additionally, the developer may be precluded from future contracts with the city and/or county.
ABOUT THE CRC
Mission: To empower, collaborate, engage and promote opportunities to create positive outcomes.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Community Relations Committee (CRC) is committed to addressing discrimination in the community, focusing on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, and disability. The CRC actively seeks community input and openly shares information that promotes transparency, equitable access to resources and opportunities for all. Members of the CRC assemble regularly to discuss and suggest solutions for various situations that transpire within the community, especially those involving perceived discrimination. Recommendations are made to relevant parties to address these concerns in a proactive way.
