Volunteers Sought to Serve on the Cambridge LGBTQ+ Commission (Application Deadline 3-25-24)

What is the Cambridge LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Plus) Commission?

The LGBTQ+ Commission was established under Chapter 2.125 of the Cambridge Municipal Code. The function of the Commission is to advocate for a culture of respect and monitor progress toward equality of all persons with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity and expression, and to promote policies and practices that have a positive effect on the health, welfare, and safety of all persons who live, visit, or work in the City with respect to sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. Commissioners are expected to be knowledgeable about the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and must live or work in Cambridge.

What is the role of the LGBTQ+ Commission?

The LGBTQ+ Commission:

• Cooperates with City departments, divisions and agencies;
• Ensures the equal status and protection of the rights and well-being of all LGBTQ+ individuals residing or working in the City;
• Designs and implement programs that promote and sustain equality for all LGBTQ+ individuals residing or working in the City;
• Assists in public awareness of LGBTQ+ issues and concerns through participation in public and media events including City-sponsored recreational, education and development activities;
• Develops policy recommendations to the City Manager and the City Council to promote and ensure the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals; and
• Initiates, coordinates, and monitors legislation which promotes the equal status and protection of rights and well-being of all LGBTQ+ individuals and makes recommendations to the City Manager and the City Council.

What skills and abilities are needed to serve on CHRC?

The City of Cambridge is committed to advancing a culture of antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion and is seeking Cambridge residents who represent the diversity of Cambridge.

Commissioners should have the ability to:

• Participate in a collaborative process;
• Consider diverse ideas and perspectives; and
• Interact and work effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies. Women, persons of color, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

When does the Commission meet and what is the term of appointment?

The Commission consists of up to 20 members appointed to 3-year terms.

• Meetings are typically held on the fourth Thursday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m., though the meeting schedule may be reassessed to accommodate Commissioners’ needs.
• Under the provisions of the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law, meetings are usually required to be in person at 51 Inman Street; although the LGBTQ+ Commission has shifted to meeting hybrid under the temporary Open Meeting Law provisions.
• The LGBTQ+ Commission will continue to utilize remote capabilities whenever public health needs arise.

What is the time commitment for commissioners?

Commissioners are expected to:

• Attend monthly meetings;
• Participate and volunteer for outreach and other community events;
• Promote the principals of anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion; and
• Work with LGBTQ+ Commission staff.

Do commissioners get compensated for their time?

Board and commission members in Cambridge do not generally receive compensation for their time. However, the City has explored the possibility of offering a stipend for high time commitment boards. Serving on the LGBTQ+ Commission does not require a high time commitment and therefore is not under consideration for a potential stipend at this time.

What is the application deadline? How do I apply?

The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, March 25, 2024. Applications can be submitted using the City of Cambridge’s online application system at Cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume, or an overview of relevant experience, can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications can also be obtained at the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue.

For more information, contact Carolina Almonte at 617-349-4396 or calmonte@cambridgema.gov.