City Statement on Unity: Promoting understanding and empathy

City Statement on Unity: Promoting understanding and empathy

Published on May 06, 2024

City of Palo Alto Statement on Unity

Mayor Greer Stone, joined by his Council colleagues, shared the following Statement on Unity at the May 6, 2024 City Council meeting.

"I was interested in a statement that would help heal our community and express the shared humanity and common values that we hold as a city…we have a final Statement of Unity that was developed thanks to the work of an advisory group, and Council Member Vicki Veenker that has been endorsed by the working group…," said Greer Stone, Palo Alto mayor.

Recent events in the Middle East have had a profound impact in Palo Alto. Our residents are suffering and in pain. We have witnessed thousands of deaths, including those of innocent Palestinian and Israeli children. We have seen violence and a humanitarian crisis that has broken our hearts and threatens to fracture our community. Increased incidents of hate against Jews, Palestinians, Muslims, Israelis, Arab-Americans, and others here at home are at odds with the sense of belonging and safety that we hold dear in our city.

Our hearts go out to all members of our community affected by this ongoing tragedy, especially those with friends and loved ones in harm's way and those who have traveled to conflict-ridden areas to render aid. We are particularly heartbroken by children experiencing violence abroad and hate here at home and affirm that children must be protected everywhere. We long for a world without violence, mourn the loss of innocent lives, affirm our shared humanity, and encourage efforts toward a just and enduring peace.

Here at home, Palo Alto affirms its commitment to fostering hate-free environments, and promoting understanding and empathy. The city cherishes cultural richness and welcomes the accompanying range of dress, cuisine, and religious practices. We will lead by example in ensuring that all people feel respected, heard, and valued. We re-commit to creating inclusive communities that uphold human rights and reject discrimination and hate. We encourage residents to show civility, compassion and understanding in support of their neighbors who may be in great pain and suffering.

We believe in the power of dialogue and education to build bridges and promote relationship and healing in our community. We support initiatives that foster civil discourse, understanding, and reconciliation. We encourage Palo Altans to make an extra effort to participate in activities with neighbors that will bring about the understanding and empathy that will promote the healing process together. In short, we recognize the common humanity of all our residents and commit to supporting their sense of safety and belonging in our community.

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