Resolution 2009 - 22 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City of University COY Resolution 2009 - 22 Resolution of the City of University City For Affirmative Action Whereas, since its early beginnings, the State of Missouri has had significant ethnic, general, racial and cultural diversity and like the nation has struggled to overcome discrimination and disenfranchisement while attempting to shape a civic personality truly centered and based in democracy; and Whereas, the State of Missouri has long recognized that citizen diversity is a most valuable asset and consistently strives to increase diversity among its workforce and contractors to accurately reflect the composition of the surrounding community; and Whereas, this effort toward diversity, parity and inclusion has resulted in significant local and national; and court decisions aimed at reflecting the growing national and local consciousness that inclusion and equity are essential components of democracy and is ultimately beneficial to all, encourages better community interaction, cooperation, tolerance and understanding; and Whereas, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in Grutter v. Bollinger, 539 U.S. 306 (2003), that Affirmative Action is necessary to achieve true democracy in our increasingly diverse and multicultural nation; and Whereas, California businessman Ward Connerly had continued what many believe to be a misleading and deceptive campaign entitled "Missouri's Civil Rights Initiative: the would amend Missouri's Constitution crippling Affirmative Action; eliminate the City's ability to consider racial and gender disparities in the areas of law enforcement, made in our local communities and across Missouri toward gender and race equality; and irreparably harm the ability of all Missouri residents to enjoy an equal opportunity in healthcare, education and employment; and Whereas, numerous civic organizations, labor unions, business associations, educational institutions, religious groups, ethnic groups and women's organization oppose the adoption of this amendment; and Whereas, University City recognizes the need for Affirmative Action toward making Missouri a better place to work and live for its diverse citizenry. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that University City reaffirms its support for diversity and affirmative action programs and opposes the deceptive and divisive "Missouri Civil Right's Initiative" and the constitutional amendment it proposes, as it fails to advance the civil rights of citizens and runs contrary to the promotion and continuance of diversity, parity and progress in the State of Missouri and directs that copies of this resolution be presented to those deemed appropriate by it's sponsor.