Title
Resolution establishing Pittsburgh as an International City of Peace.
Body
WHEREAS, the World Health Organization defines health as not merely the absence of disease or infirmity, but achievement of a balance of physical, mental, and social wellbeing; and,
WHEREAS, peace is not merely the absence of war and violence, but a condition where society has achieved a balance of prosperity, security, justice and hope; and,
WHEREAS, peace is necessary; for everyone to achieve health as defined by the World Health Organization; and,
WHEREAS, the residents of Pittsburgh want to work together to create and implement initiatives that not only foster peace but to create a positive, lasting change in our community and around the world and become a model for other cities that tackle tough challenges. This vision for the future should build on the expertise of each person and im1olve all segments of our city in planning actions and making a difference. To this we are committed; and,
WHEREAS, the concerned citizens and community leaders of the region of Pittsburgh are committed to establishing peace in the region to promote understanding, economic opportunity and improve the quality of life of the people of our region; and,
WHEREAS, there are over 300 cities of peace in over 67 nations on all 6 continents.
WHERAS, in the United States, Cities of Peace include Los Angeles California, Detroit Michigan, Philadelphia Pennsylvania, Atlanta Georgia and Cincinnati Ohio.
WHEREAS, the United Nations has designated 21 September of each year to be the International Day of Peace, devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples.
Therefore be it resolved that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby proclaim the City of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to be a City of Peace in perpetuity.
Be it further resolved that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh designate September 21 of each year to be the City of Pittsburgh Day of Peace in perpetuity.
And be it further resolved that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh recognizes and supports the current efforts of the City of Pittsburgh to promote Peace. These efforts to promote Peace and reimagine Public Safety Officials as Servants of Peace include but are not limited to:
• Creating the Pittsburgh initiative to Reduce Crime now called the Group Violence Initiative and its Programs
• Creating the Office of Community Health and Safety and its Programs
• Creating the Office of Community Services and Violence and its Programs
• Initiating police reform policies including a Duty to Intervene; prohibited buying surplus Military Equipment; banned the use of Chokeholds and No-knock warrants; prohibited secondary traffic stops
• Implementing the Maryland Lethality Assessment Model with all police officers to prevent domestic related violence and homicides.
• Installing ShotSpotter acoustical gunshot detection system
• Placing the Police’s standard operating procedures on line, and expanded annual police department’s Annual Report.
• Strengthening the Citizens Police Review Board Created and funded the STOP the Violence Initiative and Trust Fund to create greater community and policy partnership programs.
• Participating in the US Justice Department’s National Initiative for Building Community Trust and Justice
• Partnering with the Local Faith in Blue and Blue Chapter
And be it further resolved that Council, the Mayor, community leaders and concerned residents working together continue to develop policies, programs, practices and procedures that promote establishing peace in the City of Pittsburgh in perpetuity.