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A JOINT RESOLUTION AND PROCLAMATION AFFIRMING HUMAN DIGNITY AND BELONGING FOR ALL WHO CALL GAHANNA HOME
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WHEREAS, Gahanna's long-term vision, as articulated in its Strategic Plan and Economic Development Strategy ("Our Gahanna"), RES 0046-2025, calls for a welcoming, supportive, and safe community that builds lasting connections and fosters mutual respect, understanding, and belonging, a value fundamental to civic life; and
WHEREAS, racist, xenophobic, or dehumanizing rhetoric in any form undermines the dignity, cohesion, and well-being of Gahanna residents, particularly those historically marginalized or targeted by such speech; and
WHEREAS, harmful rhetoric recently directed toward immigrant and refugee communities in central Ohio has caused fear and concern among neighbors, heightening vulnerability and weakening the sense of belonging every resident deserves; and
WHEREAS, Gahanna is home to a rich and growing diversity of cultures, ethnicities, religions, languages, and national backgrounds, all of which contribute immeasurably to the social, economic, and civic strength of our city; and
WHEREAS, December is recognized globally as Universal Human Rights Month, honoring the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which affirms that all people are entitled to fundamental rights and freedoms regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, or immigration status, principles which apply equally to every resident of Gahanna; and
WHEREAS, honoring Universal Human Rights Month requires more than reflection as it calls us to act: to safeguard human dignity, strengthen belonging, and uphold a shared civic identity grounded in inclusion, respect, and safety for all who call this city home.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT JOINTLY RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL AND PROCLAIMED BY THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF GAHANNA, COUNTY OF FRANKLIN, STATE OF OHIO:
Section 1. The City of Gahanna formally affirms the dignity, safety, and belonging of all residents, expresses solida...
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