Pocatello Welcoming Resolution

Welcoming and Inclusive City Resolution

Passed October 1, 2020

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF POCATELLO, A MUNICIPAL CORPORATION OF IDAHO, AFFIRMING THE CITY OF POCATELLO AS A WELCOMING AND INCLUSIVE CITY THAT CELEBRATES DIVERSITY, PROMOTES EQUALITY AND FOSTERS RESPECT FOR ALL RESIDENTS

WHEREAS, the City of Pocatello has long been a home to indigenous people, migrants, and immigrants; and has remained true to our heritage of welcoming everyone regardless of age, race, ethnicity or place of origin, gender identity, immigration or refugee status, political ideology, economic status, or religious affiliations; and

WHEREAS, the City has long been recognized as a place where all of its residents thrive and are essential to contribute to the City's economic growth and overall prosperity for current and future generations; and 

WHEREAS, historically, the City represented a wide variety of ethnic groups where families lived and worked together in harmony despite their differences for decades; and currently, the City is home to Idaho State University where people from all walks of life are welcome; and 

WHEREAS, new residents, whether permanent or temporary, are a vital part of our community, bringing fresh perspectives and new ideas, starting businesses, adding to the talent base and contributing to the vibrant, diverse community that we all value; and

WHEREAS, the City engages in public policy, regulatory, and civic initiatives to support local organizations that promote understanding and friendship in the community for all citizens and visitors; and 

WHEREAS, the City reaffirms its commitment to maintain safety and security through the Pocatello Police Department, which operates under a policy of treating all persons in a professional and courteous manner regardless of their citizenship status and background; and

WHEREAS, the City of Pocatello pledges its commitment to welcoming all individuals through past statements and actions, knowing that discrimination or misunderstanding impedes the social and economic progress of a city by preventing all of our residents from fully contributing to the cultural, spiritual, social, and commercial life of our community.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CIT OF POCATELLO AS FOLLOWS:

  1. The City of Pocatello celebrates and values its long-standing tradition of welcoming visitors and newcomers to this beautiful valley; and creating a vibrant, diverse community where all of our residents feel welcomed, safe, and able to fully participate in, and contribute to, our city's economic and social life.
  2. The City of Pocatello reaffirms its values of inclusion, respect, and justice, and the city's commitment toward actions to reinforce these values. We have a dream of continuing to cultivate a culture of harmony and inclusion.
  3. All residents of Pocatello are encouraged to do their part in reaching out and welcoming all those who live in and visit our great City.

RESOLVED this 1st day of October, 2020.

CITY OF POCATELLO, a municipal Corporation of Idaho
BRIAN C. BLAD, MAYOR