REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of September 21 through September 27, 2024 as United Against Hate Week in Santa Clara.
Report
BACKGROUND
In recent years, there has been a deep divide throughout the nation which has resulted in an increase in hate crimes and has generated an environment that encourages the propagation of racism. In 2017, United Against Hate was created by civic leaders in direct response to the sharp rise in expressions of hate in communities to empower residents to take action in their local communities. United Against Hate is a call for local civic action to stop the hate and implicit biases that are a dangerous threat to the safety and civility of our neighborhoods and cities.
At the December 19, 2023 City Council meeting, the City of Santa Clara adopted a resolution in support of United Against Hate for the first time. In the resolution, the City committed to fighting injustice and intolerance, and to standing against racist rhetoric and attacks.
In 2024, United Against Hate week takes place September 21 through September 27, 2024, starting on the International Day of Peace. The campaign encourages cities, towns, and schools to stand together against bullying and biases.
The City of Santa Clara recognizes the United Against Hate campaign as an important reminder to unite the community as an ongoing commitment to fight injustice and intolerance in our communities. Through our continued participation in the United Against Hate movement, the City urges all Santa Clarans to promote unity, embrace the strength of diversity and peace, and build an equitable community for all.
DISCUSSION
The City of Santa Clara will promote the United Against Hate campaign with the distribution of “Santa Clara Stands Against Hate” posters and materials. As part of United Against Hate week, the City will implement the following campaign for the City of Santa Clara.
• Host educational documentary screening and discussion at Santa Clara City Library
• Create reading list with Santa Clara City Library promoting themes of unity and support for the City’s diverse community during United Against Hate week
• Work with community partners to amplify awareness
• Produce video for City social media platforms featuring city employees in solidarity with United Against Hate week
• Produce informational video with Santa Clara Police Department supporting United Against Hate week for its social channels
• Distribute United Against Hate posters to business owners and residents
• Provide United Against Hate posters to all public-facing City facilities
At the September 10, 2024 City Council meeting, the City Council is scheduled to proclaim September 21 through September 27 as United Against Hate Week in the City of Santa Clara.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an information report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact other than staff time.
COORDINATION
This report was coordinated with the City Attorney’s Office and City Manager’s Office.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov <mailto:clerk@santaclaraca.gov> or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: Fiona Kirby, Management Analyst, City Manager’s Office
Approved by: Jovan D. Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Draft Proclamation of United Against Hate Week in Santa Clara