SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) - The Sioux Falls City Council has passed an ordinance denouncing acts of hate and racism after equal rights organizations and others called on the city to do more to respond to racist incidents in the city.
Mayor Paul TenHaken brought what he called an “anti-hate” resolution to the council in order to send a message that Sioux Falls is a welcoming place for all religions, races and sexual orientations.
Councilors took their turns Tuesday night voicing support, according to the Argus Leader. Councilor Janet Brekke said the resolution is a positive step toward driving hate out of the community, but noted that it is just a starting point.
“If we pass this and do nothing more, we have said something and done nothing,” Brekke said. “But it is a start and dialogue is where you start and you have to start somewhere.”
In September, South Dakota Voices for Peace organized a march in the city after a black teen was subjected to racial slurs in downtown Sioux Falls. Video of what happened was posted on social media and viewed widely.
The vote capped a long meeting filled with discussion about racism as the council earlier in the evening affirmed the city’s willingness to accept refugees into the community.
The Sioux Falls Human Relations Commission, which handles complaints about discrimination filed with City Hall, endorsed the resolution. It includes language encouraging anyone who feels like they’re the victim of discrimination or a hate crime to contact the city attorney’s office.
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