WHEREAS, the City of Vacaville and the Vacaville Unified School District recognize the importance of fostering tolerance and understanding in this community of diverse cultures, ethnicities, races, nationalities, lifestyles, and religions; and

WHEREAS, our nation was founded on the principle that all humans are created equal, yet today we see growing evidence of bigotry and hatred; and

WHEREAS, other countries around the world, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black History; and

WHEREAS, providing a safe environment in our schools, religious institutions, workplaces, recreation areas, and everywhere must be a priority for our families, our communities, and our nation; and

WHEREAS, the City of Vacaville will increase its efforts to provide a safe and welcoming environment for all residents and community members of Vacaville, working with the Vacaville Unified School District, community nonprofits, and other agencies; and

WHEREAS, the City of Vacaville and the Vacaville Unified School District pledge to create a safe environment that  allows all students, families, residents, and community members equal access and opportunities in the City's and School District's programs, services, and activities, and further prohibits any form of discrimination, including harassment, intimidation, and/or bullying, at any city or school event or activity; and

WHEREAS, the people of Vacaville and the world have a moral obligation to take a stand against racism and violence and provide a vision of peace for our children and the future in both words and actions; and

WHEREAS, the Place of Peace initiative in Vacaville was begun in 1999 by local teacher Patricia Hunter and was adopted at that time by City Council, the Vacaville Unified School District Board, and community supporters; and

WHEREAS, recent violence and growing racism have highlighted the importance of a renewed and sustained effort to work collaboratively on community led efforts to ensure Vacaville is a safe, inclusive, and welcoming community for all who live, work, and visit Vacaville; and

WHEREAS, Vacaville residents, schools, and businesses can take a first step in restoring trust and faith in the goodness of humanity by displaying a "Vacaville - A Place of Peace" symbol to offer reassurance to all that "in this place, you will feel safe,"

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Vacaville City Council stands firmly against racism, bigotry, prejudice, discrimination, and inequity in all forms, both institutional and individual; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Vacaville in collaboration with the Governing Board of the Vacaville Unified School District does hereby proclaim Vacaville "Place of Peace" community where understanding, tolerance, and compassion are the cornerstones to a brighter world. Passed and adopted this 27th day of April 2021.