The Dayton Commission convened this morning, beginning with a moment of silence in memory of Valletta Jackson's father, who recently passed away after a long illness. Following the invocation led by Commissioner Joseph, the commission moved to approve the minutes from the previous meeting.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the proclamation of \"Welcoming Week,\" scheduled for September 13-22, 2024. Mayor Jeffrey J. Mims Jr. presented the proclamation to Jeanette Horwitz, the Welcome Dayton Coordinator, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and community unity. The proclamation recognizes the contributions of new residents and the necessity of welcoming those fleeing conflict and oppression globally.

Commissioners expressed their support for the initiative, with Commissioner Fauciow underscoring the importance of immigration in the American narrative and the need to counteract divisive rhetoric. Commissioner Joseph echoed these sentiments, praising the community's ability to discern fact from fiction and highlighting Dayton's success in welcoming diverse populations over the past decade.

The meeting also acknowledged the efforts of city staff in organizing outreach programs, including a recent tour of the International School with Dayton Public Schools, which facilitated communication between families and school officials. The commissioners reiterated their commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for all residents, reinforcing the message that inclusivity is beneficial for the entire community.