Office of the Mayor

In Recognition

Lawrence, Kansas

WHEREAS:     On the weekend of August 11, 2017, the community of Charlottesville, Virginia was the site of a hate rally and an act of domestic terrorism; and

WHEREAS:     Heather Hayer was killed and 19 others were injured in a senseless act of violence and numerous others were injured in violence related to the demonstrations; and

WHEREAS:     Lieutenant Pilot H. Jay Cullen and Trooper Pilot Berke M. M. Bates of the Virginia State Police lost their lives in a helicopter accident while supporting public safety operations related to the events in Charlottesville; and

WHEREAS:     The acts of racism, hatred and senseless violence in Charlottesville were cowardly and not representative of the values we hold as Americans; and 

WHEREAS:     The City of Lawrence condemns all forms of racism, hatred and bigotry which undermine the safety and freedom of our society; and

WHEREAS:     The City of Lawrence values all residents and encourages thoughtful civil discourse. Empathy and tolerance of all people are among the most esteemed values held by Lawrencians; and 

WHEREAS:     The City of Lawrence affirms our commitment to uphold equality for all members of our society and wholly believes in the importance of acceptance and inclusion regardless of race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, ancestry, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, or familial status; and  

WHEREAS:     The City of Lawrence joins the country in offering our condolences and support to the community of Charlottesville as they heal from these tragic events;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Leslie Soden, Mayor of the City of Lawrence, Kansas, do hereby request the City Commission’s support in sending a letter to Michael Signer, Mayor of Charlottesville, offering our community’s support and condolences in response to this tragedy.

Leslie Soden, Mayor

August 15, 2017