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WHEREAS, the recent acquittal of George Zimmerman in the murder of Trayvon Martin and the events that followed have exposed the racism and prejudice that still exist in contemporary society, and has forced these issues back into the national conversation; and
WHEREAS, Pittsburgh for Trayvon was formed as a collective of concerned citizens to directly respond to the verdict, and for their commitment and actions toward the elimination of racism; and
WHEREAS, several organizations including New Voices Pittsburgh are actively involved in combating racism and oppressive practices and policies in the City of Pittsburgh; and
WHEREAS, Pittsburgh became the fifth Human Rights City in America on April 19, 2011 as part of an international United Nations initiative, by declaring its commitment to human rights and social justice; and
WHEREAS, in order for Pittsburgh to truly be "America's Most Livable City," we must recognize and oppose the institutional and systemic discrimination that has harmed the City of Pittsburgh;
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh condemns racism and prejudice in our society, and renews its commitment to combating these social ills, and ensuring justice and equality for all; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby request that the Administration make anti-racism and racial sensitivity training a high priority for all City of Pittsburgh employees.