In response to the killing of George Floyd and the protests that have followed, the Longmont City Council issued a statement of solidarity recognizing the need for racial equity in our society and in support of peaceful demonstrators. Longmont City Council Member Susie Hidalgo-Fahring composed this statement and her fellow council members informally endorsed this declaration at the June 2 City Council meeting. It is expected to be officially ratified on June 16.

Statement of Solidarity From Longmont City Council

Ver esta declaración en español

The recent killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor by police officers, which launched a nationwide movement of protests and sadly, riots, have weighed heavy in our hearts and minds.

We condemn the brutal death of George Floyd and the killings of so many more Black Americans because of racial discrimination by the very people sworn to protect us. We reject the actions of these officers who took it upon themselves to be the judges, juries, and executioners.

We recognize the trauma that communities of color have historically experienced due to ongoing police brutality, in effect exacerbating continued fear and distrust of law enforcement.

We are a nation in grief, grieving over the loss of lives such as George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor in just these last few weeks.

As your elected officials, it is our responsibility to address instances of injustice. We must make the commitment to lead with compassion and the resiliency needed to build a more equitable community. Longmont City Council is committed to prioritizing racial equity and dismantling systemic racism that divides and destroys communities.

We support our community members’ efforts to participate in peaceful protesting. We stand in solidarity with these protesters and encourage the community to remain focused on the purpose of these demonstrations, which is to advocate and fight for racial, social, and economic justice.

Signed by Longmont City Council, 2020:

Brian J. Bagley, Mayor

Aren Rodriguez, Mayor Pro Tem, At-Large

Tim Waters

Marcia Martin

Susie Hidalgo-Fahring

Polly Christensen

Joan Peck