City of Decorah Mayor makes formal proclamation condemning recent hate crime

On Tuesday, City of Decorah Mayor Lorraine Borowski issued a Mayoral Proclamation condemning the recent hate crime against the LGBTQIA+ community and confirming the City's long history of inclusivity, diversity, and respect for all residents. The Mayoral Proclamation reads as follows: "WHEREAS, the City of Decorah, Iowa, stands as a beacon of inclusivity, diversity, and respect for all its residents, regardless of their race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity; and WHEREAS, we are proud to recognize the significant contributions of our LGBTQ+ community members who have enriched the cultural, social, and economic fabric of our city throughout history; and WHEREAS, the essence of Decorah lies in its commitment to fostering a safe, welcoming, and harmonious environment for every individual, free from discrimination, hatred, or prejudice; and WHEREAS, we believe in the importance of acknowledging and confronting instances of hate and discrimination, especially when our fellow community members are targeted; and WHEREAS, it has come to our attention that a recent hate crime targeting members of the LGBTQ+ community has occurred within our city, perpetrated by a few individuals whose actions stand in stark contrast to the values and principles we hold dear; and WHEREAS, the City of Decorah, along with its residents, is resolute in condemning such acts of hatred and violence, and we stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community in these challenging times; and WHEREAS, we recognize that unity, empathy, and education are essential tools in addressing and preventing hate crimes, and we commit to fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding within our community; and WHEREAS, the City of Decorah reaffirms its dedication to working collaboratively with local law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and advocacy groups to ensure justice is served and to prevent future acts of hate and discrimination. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Lorraine Borowski, Mayor of the City of Decorah, Iowa, do hereby proclaim: 1. Our heartfelt support for the LGBTQ+ community in Decorah and beyond, as they are an integral part of our city's vibrant tapestry. 2. Our unequivocal condemnation of the recent hate crime against members of the LGBTQ+ community, and we call upon law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate and prosecute those responsible to the fullest extent of the law. 3. Our commitment to continuing efforts to educate our community about the importance of diversity, inclusion, and acceptance, and to foster an environment where hate has no place. 4. Our pledge to stand firmly with all those who work tirelessly to combat hate and discrimination in all forms, and to provide support to victims of hate crimes. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the City of Decorah, Iowa, to be affixed this 19th day of September, 2023. Lorraine Borowski Mayor, City of Decorah, Iowa"