Here Is the Full Text of Pasadena’s Declaration on the Middle East

WHEREAS, the City of Pasadena advocates for peace, safety, dignity, freedom, and equality for all people, and is comprised of diverse individuals whose collective cultures, religions, backgrounds, orientations, abilities, and viewpoints join to form a community that prides itself on being welcoming and accepting of people from all walks of life; and

WHEREAS, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has claimed the lives of many individuals in the region, caused immeasurable suffering to countless persons, and continued risk of death is imminent if the release of hostages and a ceasefire does not take place; and

WHEREAS, at its meeting of March 22, 2021 , the City Council affirmed its commitment to inclusion and advancement of diversity and equity for people of all ethnicities, national origins, and backgrounds with the unanimous passage of

Resolution 9831 which condemns hate and xenophobic violence against all persons and affirms that the City of Pasadena and all levels of government must stand united in combating intolerance, xenophobia, discrimination, and hate against those of varying ethnicities, religious beliefs, genders, and backgrounds;

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

Section 1: The City of Pasadena continues to stand firmly behind Resolution 9831 and the principles of peace, unity, respect, understanding, and valuing the sanctity of human life.

Section 2: The City of Pasadena calls on leaders at the federal level to continue to work cooperatively with the global community to release all hostages, seek bilateral de-escalation and ceasefire, ensure timely delivery of aid to Gaza, and pursue peace in the Middle East to guard and protect the lives, health, and security of all innocent civilians.

Section 3: The City Council requests a copy of this declaration be sent to the offices of Congressmembers Judy Chu and Adam Schiff, Senators Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler, and President Joe Biden.