FR 2021-02029

The document under review is a notice from the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights regarding an upcoming teleconference meeting of the Oregon Advisory Committee. The scheduled meeting is set to occur on February 12, 2021, and will be conducted via teleconference. The primary purpose is to review a report outline and to discuss drafting a statement concerning the attempted government coup. Public participation is encouraged, allowing individuals to comment during the meeting, and all documentation related to the meeting will be accessible online.

General Summary

This notice primarily serves to inform the public about the teleconference meeting organized by the Oregon Advisory Committee under the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. The meeting is identified as an opportunity for the committee to deliberate on a significant topic—the attempted government coup. Public engagement is a notable feature, as it allows individuals to listen in and contribute their viewpoints both during and after the meeting through written comments.

Significant Issues or Concerns

Several issues and potential concerns are evident in the document:

• Lack of Detailed Context: The document mentions an "attempted government coup" without providing further context or explanation. This could lead to confusion or misunderstanding given the lack of detailed information or background on what specific event this refers to.

• Public Feedback Utilization: The document states that public comments can be made during the open period at the end of the meeting, and written comments can be submitted within 30 days. However, it does not specify how this feedback will be utilized or if it will influence the committee's decisions.

• Access and Costs: While participation is encouraged, there is mention that callers initiating calls over wireless lines may incur charges. This could pose a barrier to access for some individuals, especially those without landline access. The document does not provide comparative information on the potential costs involved, which might be relevant for participants.

• Transparency in Spending: The document does not provide information on any financial aspects or spending related to organizing or conducting the meeting. This lack of detail may raise concerns about transparency and accountability, particularly in terms of resource allocation.

Impact on the Public Broadly

The document's impact on the general public is centered around the opportunity for civic engagement. Given the gravity of the issue at hand—referenced as an attempted government coup—public involvement and transparency in governance discussions are vital. However, the issues mentioned above could diminish the overall effectiveness and accessibility of public participation.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For specific stakeholders, such as residents of Oregon who are directly represented by the Oregon Advisory Committee, this meeting represents a significant channel for influencing discussions on civil rights matters. It provides a structured forum for voicing concerns and suggestions. On the other hand, the lack of contextual clarity and potential barriers to accessing the meeting could limit effective stakeholder engagement.

Overall, while the meeting outlined in the document is an important step in ensuring transparency and public involvement, addressing the identified issues could enhance the process, ensuring more inclusive and meaningful participation.