City Council Issues Proclamation on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

June 10, 2020 - In light of the recent protests over the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis two weeks ago, the City Council joins with the community in committing to meaningful progress in combating racism, and proclaiming a renewed commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in Mercer Island.  The incident provides yet another example of the important work yet to be accomplished here and across the country.

While the City Council recognizes that this tragedy highlights law enforcement practices, it also recognizes that such issues go far beyond the criminal justice system.  At its June 9 meeting, the City Council approved a Proclamation (view below) recognizing that a more diverse and just society makes Mercer Island a stronger and healthier community.

Conduct that inflicts emotional, mental, or physical harm against individuals because of their race, ethnicity, place of origin, physical ability, socio-economic status, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, or religion, has no place in our community and country.

With this Proclamation, the City of Mercer Island joins many other neighboring cities in rejecting racially-based bias, harassment, and hate crimes, avows that the City will not tolerate discrimination of any kind, and also denounces all COVID-19 related misnaming, blaming, and harassment based on race.

The City Council, City staff and Police Department personnel are committed to law enforcement practices and regular training that respect the life and rights of every individual. We will continue to explore additional ways to make Mercer Island a more diverse and inclusive environment in which everyone feels welcome and respected.