Champaign’s Mayor, Deborah Frank Feinen, issued a statement at last night’s City Council meeting, to allow citizens to know that she, and the entire city, remain committed to fostering a welcome community. Read the full statement below:
Champaign Remains Committed to Fostering a Welcoming Community for All
During the February 21, 2017, City Council meeting, Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen made the following comments:
“Over the last several weeks, a number of residents have reached out to my fellow City Council Members and me with concerns about the President’s Executive Orders pertaining to refugee immigration and federal immigration enforcement. While information about how these Orders might impact our local community remain uncertain, we recognize that during times like this, it is important for our residents to hear from their local officials.
“I want to reassure our residents that the City of Champaign remains committed to fostering a friendly and welcoming community for all who choose to live here. We are proud of our strong, diverse, and inclusive community – one that works together to improve the quality of life and promote equal opportunities for all. We encourage our residents to continue to foster the type of community we all want to live in; a community free of fear and intimidation. We applaud those who embrace our community’s diversity and show unconditional respect for one another. Now more than ever is the time for our residents to extend a neighborly hand and share reassuring words of encouragement to those facing adversity.
“The City’s Community Relations Office will partner with the C-U Immigration Forum and state human rights organizations to collaboratively support our local immigrant community. The City will participate in public forums and outreach events to educate our residents about immigrant rights and what to do if you’ve been discriminated against.
“The City of Champaign remains committed to ensuring an individual’s human rights are upheld and protected. The City has a strong Human Rights Ordinance which ensures our residents are treated in a fair and equitable manner, regardless of religion or national origin. Anyone who feels they’ve been discriminated against is encouraged to contact the City’s Community Relations Office at 217-403-8830. We want everyone who lives, works, and plays in Champaign to be successful – to know they are welcome here – and to feel at home.”