No Place for Hate Official Proclamation ADL, MMA & Town of Harwich

Official Proclamation

Whereas:

All acts of subtle and overt racism, anti-Semitism, homophobia, and ethnic bigotry substantially undermind our communities, schools, and the promise of equal justice;

Whereas:

Our nation was founded on the fundamental conviction that all persons are entitled to equal protection, equal opportunity and to the enjoyment of civil rights;

Whereas:

The strength of our nation is derived from the growing diversity of our communities and;

Whereas:

The Anti-Dafamation (ADL), Massachusetts Municipal Association and other coalition members are sponsoring a program designed to help communities develop and take specific actions to combat bias and to promote respect for all people;

Whereas:

On Monday, January 16, 2006 (Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday), the Town of Harwich will committ to fulfill the criteria to be declared No Place for Hate and;
Whereas:

We can begin to solve the problem of hate and to build bridges to different communities only by taking strategic and specific actions to promote a sense of welcome and inclusion.

Now, therefore, I, ______________________ , do hereby proclaim that the Town of Harwich will maintain a policy of zero tolerance for hate crimes and will do our best to interrupt prejudice and stop those who, because of hate, would hurt, harass, or violate the civil rights of anyone. We also pledge ourselves to undertake a serious year-round program to mobilize key leadership segments in our community to creatively address any issue that will help promote a recognition and encouragement of diversity.

We encourage all residents of Harwich to take cognizance of this proclamation and
participate fittingly in its observance.


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Municipality

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Board of Selectmen Chair

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Witness

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Witness