The Town of Needham Human Rights Committee approved the minutes from the prior meeting with edits, discussed one current vacancy on the committee and reviewed website updates and meeting dates.

Committee business: A motion to approve the minutes was moved and seconded and adopted by voice vote; the committee asked staff to incorporate edits and post the revised minutes to the town website. Committee members noted one applicant—Marie Shapiro—under review for a vacancy and described the process for a short interview with the select board followed by a potential appointment at a February meeting. Staff said they are updating the committee’s webpage and will post agendas and the meeting link at least 48 hours before meetings.

Upcoming programs and community announcements highlighted by members included:
- A disabilities-focused film series running January–April with showings at Newman and panels for discussion; February 11 is the next screening focused on autism.
- StoryStars’ family program (ages 3–8) using picture books to help families discuss race; sessions run Jan. 26–March 23 at First Parish Church; registration and scholarship information were discussed.
- A Needham Community Theater production, If the Walls Could Talk, on Feb. 2 at Powers Hall; committee members said the production is free and locally produced.
- A library event on Sunday, Feb. 9 (2–3:30 p.m.) featuring Dr. Ted Landsmark presenting on racism in Boston; registration required through the library.

Ending: Staff will post updated minutes and agenda materials online and follow up at the next meeting on the vacancy, police follow-up on immigration policy and outreach for the committee’s calendar of events.