CITY OF HOMER City Manager

HOMER, ALASKA

RESOLUTION 02-28(S)

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF HOMER, ALASKA, RECOGNIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF APPRECIATING, RESPECTING AND CELEBRATING OUR DIVERSE POPULATION AND TAKING APPROPRIATE ACTIONS IN HIRING PRACTICES AND POLICIES TO DEMONSTRATE A COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY AND RESPECT FOR ALL PEOPLES.

WHEREAS, Alaska is one of the most ethnically diverse states in the nation where nearly 100 languages are spoken and our residents identify with a wealth of ethnic, cultural and racial heritages;

WHEREAS we, as Alaskans, cherish our freedoms and civil rights, recognizing that the first act of the Territorial Legislature in 1913 gave woman the right to vote seven years before the rest of the nation; and civil rights legislation championed by Elizabeth Peratrovich and Alaska Native Brotherhood and Sisterhood passed in 1945 two decades before the U.S. Civil Rights Act;

WHEREAS the City of Homer recognizes the contribution of its diverse population as an enhancement to our quality of life;

WHEREAS the City of Homer recognizes that while tolerance and respect for all peoples inherently is the responsibility of each individual, those in leadership and institutional roles must lead this effort and teach by example;

WHEREAS the City of Homer can take steps to reflect and celebrate the diversity of our Community our respect for all peoples, and out recognition of the dignity of all Alaskans;

WHEREAS, the Honorable Tony Knowles, Governor of the State of Alaska, has proclaimed January 2002 as Diversity Appreciation Month and, through Administrative Order No. 195, has renewed the state's commitment as an employer and public servant to a workplace that recognizes diversity and works to prevent discrimination and harassment.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Homer recognizes the importance of appreciating, respecting and celebrating our diverse population and will take appropriate actions in our hiring practices and policies to demonstrate a commitment to diversity and respect for all peoples.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that copies of the resolution will be sent to Governor Tony Knowles, Senator Torgerson and Representative Scalzi.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Homer City Council this 13^th day of May, 2002.

CITY OF HOMER

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ATTEST: JACK CUSHING, MAYOR

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MARY L. CALHOUN, CMC, CITY CLERK

Fiscal Note: NA.