Chaska commission backs online safety partnership with ACT United
The Chaska Human Rights Commission expressed strong support for partnering with ACT United to launch an annual countywide awareness week focused on protecting young people from online exploitation and sextortion. The organization presented alarming data on the rising threat to Minnesota youth during the July 24 meeting.
ACT United, a nonprofit focused on preventing online youth exploitation, asked the commission to help establish an annual awareness week leading up to National Online Safety Day on February 11. The organization detailed what it called a surge in sextortion cases in Minnesota—a crime where perpetrators threaten to share intimate images unless victims send money or more explicit photos.
Sextortion is after sending a private image, threats are used to make a young person comply with demands like sending money or being asked to send more nude images," said ACT United presenter Sarah Sumukuto. "And this danger in Minnesota has been called a surge by the FBI.
ACT United has worked in the region for nine years, including leading online safety sessions at the Chaska Police Kids Safety Camp and integrating programs into school curricula across multiple districts. The organization proposed partnering with the commission to identify other community partners and bring online safety classes, prevention resources, and multilingual materials to youth and families throughout Carver County.
Commission Chair Hubard responded enthusiastically, saying "I think we would love to partner with you" and pledging to leverage commissioners' connections to connect ACT United with relevant county agencies and organizations. While no formal vote was taken, the reception was unanimously positive with no dissenting comments.
In other business, the commission unanimously approved the Treasurer's Report, which showed that approximately $1,400 of the $3,000 budgeted for the June Pride celebration remained unspent and was reallocated to the general fund, bringing the year's remaining balance to $4,300. Commissioners also discussed the successful Pride picnic at Lions Park, noting strong attendance and positive feedback on tie-dye activities and food vendors. They suggested future improvements including a shaved ice truck, dedicated staff to encourage costume participation, and a wider variety of flags and beverages.
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Other Topics from This Document
Chaska Human Rights Commission Pride Celebration Review
River City Days Celebration Participation
Annual DEI and Human Rights Commission Forum
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