20240228-004 Recommendation 'Resolution on combating Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments in the City of Austin and...' — original pdf

Recommendation

JOINT INCLUSION COMMITTEE (JIC) RECOMMENDATION 20240228-004 RESOLUTION ON COMBATING ANTISEMITISM, ISLAMOPHOBIA, AND ANTI-ARAB SENTIMENTS IN THE CITY OF AUSTIN AND CALLS FOR A CEASEFIRE Date: February 28th, 2024 Subject: Joint Endorsement of the Human Rights Commission’s Recommendation 20231106_001 Resolution on Combating Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Anti-Arab Sentiments in the City of Austin and Calls for a Ceasefire. Motioned by: Commissioner Melissa Ortega Seconded by: Commissioner Morgan Davis WHEREAS, the City of Austin is dedicated to fostering a community that embraces diversity and upholds the principles of equality and human rights; WHEREAS, incidents of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments are on the rise within our city, posing a significant threat to the well-being and safety of our diverse communities; WHEREAS, the City of Austin created the Joint Inclusion Committee in City Ordinance No. 20200827-013 so that it shall (1) advise the council on issues pertaining to equity, diversity, and inclusion; and (2) promote close cooperation between the council, City management, City boards, commissions, committees, and agencies to increase and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion of the city; WHEREAS, it is our duty as the Joint Inclusion Committee of the City of Austin to address and combat discrimination, prejudice, and hate in all its forms; WHEREAS, we recognize the importance of creating a community where every resident can live free from fear and discrimination; WHEREAS, we express profound sorrow and condemnation for the tragic loss of Israeli civilians in the attack on October 7th by Hamas, and we vehemently denounce the indiscriminate retaliation by the State of Israel, which has resulted in collective punishment upon the civilian population of Gaza; WHEREAS, we find it deeply troubling that a dehumanization narrative is being used to rationalize criminal acts of war within this ongoing conflict; WHEREAS, it is the solemn responsibility of the Austin City Council to uphold human rights principles and universal values; 1  NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee of the City of Austin firmly condemns all acts of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments within our city; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee recommends that the City of Austin through all applicable agencies to: Vigorously combat acts of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments by implementing programs and initiatives aimed at prevention, education, and awareness. Provide support to victims of hate crimes related to antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab sentiments by ensuring that resources and assistance are readily available. Collaborate with community organizations to promote understanding, tolerance, and intercultural dialogue among different religious and ethnic communities. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee recommends that the City of Austin shall facilitate public awareness campaigns to educate our residents about the harmful effects of antisemitism, Islamophobia, anti-Arab, and Anti-Palestine Sentiments and encourage reporting of such incidents. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Joint Inclusion Committee recommends that the City of Austin shall work closely with the City Council and relevant local organizations to create and implement initiatives that promote the values of tolerance, diversity, and mutual respect within the City of Austin. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Austin City Council is called upon to: Express its support for de-escalation in the Israel-Palestine conflict, demanding the release of the civilian hostages abducted by Hamas on October 7th and the resumption of essential supplies such as food, water, and fuel, which are indispensable for the survival of the civilian population of Gaza. Express its support for an explicit ceasefire and the urgent initiation of a political process that prioritizes truth, reconciliation, restitution, and the recognition of the Israeli and Palestinian people to a future where they are equally safe and free of oppression. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution shall be transmitted to the Austin City Council for consideration and implementation. This resolution reflects the unwavering commitment of the City of Austin and its Joint Inclusion Committee to create a community where the principles of equality, respect, and human rights are upheld for all its residents while also promoting a peaceful resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. ---- Vote: 7 - 2 For: Commissioners Serita Fontanesi, Sony Sin, Richard Bondi, Melissa Ortega, Eliza Gordon, Amanda Afifi, and Morgan Davis. 2  Against: Commissioners Julie Glasser and Jeniffer Powell. Abstain: None. Absent: Commissioner Melissa Taylor (off the dais). Attest: ___________________________ Alejandra Mireles Staff Liaison to the Joint Inclusion Committee, The Equity Office 3