Mayor Vinis: Statement on Racist Murders in Buffalo

Once more, I find myself reaching out to the community after a disgusting act of racism. My heart goes out to the families, friends, and communities left reeling from the senseless murders that occurred in Buffalo on Saturday. White nationalism is terrorism, and while this occurrence took place outside of Eugene, I know that it has deeply impacted many people in the Eugene community.

Let me say clearly to our community: Hate, in its many forms, has no place here. Hateful actions and messages violate everything our City stands for and all that we are working to be - a city that is safe and welcoming for everyone (Resolution 5174, 2016).

The City Council passed a Resolution Condemning White Nationalism and Seditious Activities and Extremist Groups in January 2021. This resolution acknowledges that "the trauma inflicted on Black people, people of color, Muslim and Jewish people, religious minorities, the LGBTQ community and other marginalized groups by white supremacists results in generational and psychological harm affecting health, educational, economic and social outcomes."

I encourage everyone to reflect on how we can individually help create a safe and welcoming Eugene and remain engaged in activities that support a sense of belonging.

I ask all community members to report acts of hate, whether they experience it themselves or witness hate inflicted upon another person. Hate speech and other acts of discrimination can be reported online at eugene-or.gov/reporthate or by calling the Office of Human Rights and Neighborhood Involvement (HRNI) at 541-682-5177. Potential criminal activity can be reported to Eugene Police by calling 541-682-5111 or dialing 911 in an emergency.

I thank the community for reporting acts of hate to Eugene Police and to HRNI. We take these reports seriously. If the spread of hate speech rises to the level of criminal activity, they will be fully investigated by Eugene Police. The City of Eugene rejects these hateful acts and will direct city resources to stop them.