Johnson County supervisors pass resolution condemning hatred

IOWA CITY - The Johnson County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution Thursday in support of Charlottesville residents and others oppressed by racist groups.

The board unanimously voted to 'urge all people to reject violence, hatred and discrimination” and offered condolences for Heather Heyer, who was killed last weekend when a driver plowed through people who protested to oppose white nationalists and neo-Nazis in Charlottesville, Va.

'Johnson County has been a leader in advancing a progressive agenda that seeks to welcome and protect the rights of all people; denounce hate speech, violence, vandalism and hate crimes intended to intimidate others,” the resolution says.

The resolution also affirmed 'the right of every person to live peacefully and without fear.”

The board has a history of passing resolutions to show solidarity with other groups in the wake of national events. After the 2016 presidential election, the board passed a resolution to support all residents and foster a welcoming environment. It cited election rhetoric and violence and intimidation against traditionally marginalized groups.

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