By Pete Bannan, Daily Local News, 8/21/16 {download text of the resolution here: wccode-of-comm-values-pledge

WEST CHESTER >> Members of the community turned out for the 6th annual Charles A. Melton Arts & Education Center’s Community Unity Day Sunday.

In addition to youth basketball, plenty of food and great music, the highlight of the day was the unveiling and public signing of the Greater West Chester Code of Community Values Resolution and Pledge.

In part, the pledge reads:

“Whereas, the people of Greater West Chester value safety and security; we agree to come together when incidents that may be a result of hatred or discrimination based on race, color, national and ethnic origin, citizenship status, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age and economic status.

Whereas, the community of West Chester values equality not just through policy and protocol but in how we treat each other in our daily lives; we agree to address issues of concern brought to our attention…”

“…as people of good will, we will not tolerate hateful speech or actions toward any individual or group in our community. “

West Chester Mayor Carolyn Comitta said the pledge came in response to several recent local incidents targeting the African-American community. Three cases of hate speech were found at John O. Green Memorial Park in the borough as well as incidents of racist speech at area high schools.

Comitta said members of the community realized it was important to come together to spell out greater West Chester’s commitment to being a welcoming community for all….

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