Folsom, California passed a resolution calling for the targeting of civilians to STOP on December 12, 2023

DECLARATION OF THE FOLSOM CITY COUNCIL REAFFIRMING IT'S COMMITMENT TO PROMOTING AN INCLUSIVE, SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL

WHEREAS, the City of Folsom unequivocally condemns violence against innocent civilians in both Israel and Palestine, and calls on the world's leaders to pursue means to urgently cease violence against civilians and ensure safe, humanitarian conditions not just temporarily, but permanently;

WHEREAS, all human life is precious, and the targeting of innocent civilians, no matter their faith or race, is horrifying and unacceptable and must stop;

WHEREAS, according to a November 29, 2023 report from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, over 1,200 human beings in Israel (source: Israeli Prime Minister's Office) and over 14,000 human beings in Palestine (source: Gaza Health Ministry) have lost their lives since October 7, 2023;

WHEREAS, the City of Folsom grieves and mourns alongside innocent, civilian victims and their loved ones caught in the crossfire of violence in regions in conflict worldwide;

WHEREAS, our region is home to people from many different backgrounds, including those with familial, cultural, and/or religious ties to countries and regions in conflict; and

WHEREAS, the City of Folsom recognizes that people in our own Folsom community may be deeply affected by current events, even if they are taking place thousands of miles away; and

WHEREAS, the City of Folsom recognizes that people in our own Folsom community may feel and endure extreme anxiety and concern about their own personal safety and that of their friends and family members, particularly during thesetimes of violence, instability, and uncertainty; and

WHEREAS, the City of Folsom recognizes with high concern that there is a dramatic rise in anti-Semitism and Islamophobia nationwide, and some have expressed fear that a similar rise could happen in Folsom;

WHEREAS, the City of Folsom denounces hate crimes of any type, and seeks to ensure that every resident feelsacknowledged, seen, heard, protected, included, supported, and safe in our community; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT DECLARED by the City Council of the City of Folsom that:

The City of Folsom reaffirms its commitment to promoting an inclusive, safe environment where all people can live in harmony, respect, and understanding. DECLARED this 12th day of December 2023.