Introduced by: Councilmember Henry
A Resolution Entitled
A Council Resolution concerning
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Condemning Violence and Hate Speech
For the purpose of condemning violence and hate speech; expressing solidarity with Muslims and all those targeted for their ethnicity, race, or religion; and categorically rejecting political tactics that use fear to manipulate voters or to gain power or influence.
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Recitals
Whereas, the United States was founded by immigrants, many fleeing religious persecution, who enshrined freedom of religion as one of our nation’s fundamental legal and ethical principles.
Whereas, the history of Islam in the United States began even before its founding when African Muslims were enslaved and brought to the Americas, where they later helped in numerous ways to build this country, including sacrificing their lives on the line in every major war from the Revolutionary War on.
Whereas, there are more than 3 million Muslims living in the United States today, and, according to a 2010 survey, approximately 15,000 living in the Baltimore metropolitan area, making invaluable contributions to our economy, our social and political life, and our culture.
Whereas, there has been an unprecedented backlash since 9/11 in the form of hate crimes and employment discrimination toward Arab and Muslim Americans and those perceived as Muslims.
Whereas, Arab and Muslim Americans, and those perceived as Muslims, are frequently the targets of abusive and discriminatory police practices sanctioned by the state including surveillance in their neighborhoods and places of worship.
Whereas, we are saddened and outraged at the recent escalation of hateful rhetoric against Muslims, those perceived to be Muslims, immigrants, and all people of color, and we are ...
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