The Town of Needham Human Rights Committee discussed plans to staff an information table at an upcoming community event with materials about immigration processes, know-your-rights guidance and volunteer opportunities.

Committee members said they want a small set of printed handouts plus a QR code linking to a live Google document that can be updated on the day of the event. The committee discussed translating key materials (Spanish, Portuguese and Creole) and using a poster or display so visitors can quickly see what is being offered.

Members identified organizations to coordinate with, including the Immigration Justice Task Force and the MetroWest Workers’ Center, which has previously run clinics and accompaniment programs for people navigating asylum and other immigration processes. The committee discussed including brief one-page explanations of topics such as asylum and temporary protected status, and a separate path for allies who want to volunteer or be trained to help (for example, research assistance on country conditions, accompaniment to court or medical appointments, or staffing clinics).

Committee members emphasized the limits of what a town committee can offer and the need to connect people with legal services. They proposed a two-track resource: (1) an information link and QR code labeled for those seeking help, with contacts for legal or clinical referrals; and (2) a separate volunteers/ally sign-up link with next steps (training links and clinic schedules). They discussed putting together a short, digestible collection of resources rather than a large packet of papers.

The committee also flagged practical logistics: name tags for volunteers, backup volunteers for hospitality tasks, and a cart to move refreshments. Members agreed to consult the immigration justice group and other local partners to avoid duplicating materials and to ensure referrals to legal services where available.

The Human Rights Committee said it will follow up with the Town Police Chief and other town offices on policies and clarify any town-level limits before publicizing specific referrals or legal advice.

Ending: Committee staff and volunteers will collect sample handouts and a working QR link and report back at the next meeting with a proposed resource page and volunteer sign-up flow.