Leesburg Diversity Commission Meeting: August 13, 2026

The Leesburg Diversity Commission met on Wednesday, August 13, 2026, at 7:04 PM (the meeting began at 7:04 and adjourned at 8:35 PM). The agenda included approvals, a presentation on website translation services, a proposal for a Diwali celebration, a debrief of National Night Out, discussion of Construction Inclusion Week, and logistics for upcoming proclamations. A commissioner departed early after expressing frustration about perceived exclusion in proclamation invitation decisions.

Consent Calendar

• Electronic participation: Approved for Melissa, Sri (both ill), and Ashante (work logistics). All in favor, no nays.
• Agenda approval: Motion by Ed, seconded; approved unanimously.
• Minutes approval: Minutes from the July 8, 2026 meeting approved (motion by Vanessa, second by Ed).

Public Comments & Testimony

• No public comments were heard; the “Petitioners” item was skipped.

Discussion Items

• Website Translation Services: Digital content manager Andre Medina presented three options: Bablik (current, $749/year, but not working and no customer support), Google Translate (free for government, AI-driven, used by Loudoun County, Falls Church, Alexandria), and Weglot ($87–$329/month, more control but costly). Statistics from the town’s interpretation services: 751 telephone calls (125 hours, 20 languages; top: Spanish, Arabic, Farsi, Chinese, Romanian) and 7 in-person/virtual interpretations (28.5 hours; languages: sign language, Spanish, Farsi). The commission favored Google Translate, with the caveat that it must be tested for accessibility (screen reader compatibility). A motion to recommend transitioning from Bablik to Google Translate was made, seconded, and passed unanimously.
• Diwali Event Proposal: Raj Goody (Lead America) presented a vision for a Diwali celebration (November 5, 2026, or a nearby Saturday). He emphasized inclusivity, youth leadership, and interfaith participation. The commission noted the event is religious/cultural and would require co-sponsorship with the town. Concerns were raised about timing (too late for 2026), budget (commission has $0), potential fee waivers needing council approval, and the need for due diligence on the organization. Staff (Kara) will forward feedback; the commission will review materials and consider co-sponsoring in 2027. A commissioner argued the event must be held in Leesburg; another countered that the commission’s mission may extend beyond town borders. No decision made for 2026.
• National Night Out Debrief: Commissioners shared experiences: fans and lollipops were popular, bubbles had leftovers, and tattoos were in demand. The tent needs a new sign. Suggestions included standardizing the setup (e.g., table placement) and providing parent-oriented materials about the town. Attendance was noted as higher than previous years.
• Construction Inclusion Week Ideas: Heather (historic preservation staff) provided a presentation (unable to attend). Key statistics: women represent 11% of the general construction workforce and 4% of the trades workforce; 39% of women in construction hold leadership roles, but many are in sales/office positions. The commission suggested highlighting local women in construction (e.g., an apprenticeship coordinator) and connecting with economic development. Staff will forward the presentation and encourage direct ideas.
• Commission Logo Update: Artist Joe is close to a first draft; contract runs through December 31, 2026. No draft yet.
• Proclamation and Awareness: Sam from LAWS submitted a proclamation request for Domestic Violence Awareness Month (ceremony October 16 at town green, with purple lighting). Disability Employment Awareness Month also noted in October. The commissioner responsible will submit the application. A brief conflict arose: a commissioner felt the invitation to “A Place to Be” for the disability pride proclamation was made unilaterally, without bringing the choice to the full body. The commissioner stated, “your group can’t even include people,” and left the meeting early.

Key Outcomes

• Website translation: Unanimous recommendation to transition from Bablik to Google Translate, pending accessibility testing and staff follow-up.
• Diwali event: No action for 2026; materials to be reviewed; possible co-sponsorship in 2027 after due diligence and event application.
• Construction Inclusion Week: Ideas to be sent to Heather; economic development will be included.
• Commission logo: No update beyond contract status; follow-up before next meeting.
• Domestic violence proclamation: Application to be submitted; ceremony October 16.
• Adjournment: Meeting ended at 8:35 PM after the conflict; quorum was maintained (four members present in room).