At its last membership meeting on Sept. 19, the Dane County Cities and Villages Association passed a resolution in support of non-discrimination policies and encouraging all cities and villages within Dane County to adopt their own non-discrimination ordinances.

Speaking in support of the resolution, Sun Prairie Mayor Paul Esser noted the increasing diversity of Wisconsin and the importance of community leaders taking such stances to promote fairness and equality and its impact on economic development.

The resolution states:

WHEREAS, diversity is a critical component of a thriving, successful municipality and region;
 
WHEREAS, the Dane County Cities' & Villages' Association, as its name suggests, represents the cities' and villages' located in the Dane County region - a region with a diverse community with a long tradition of pursuing full equality for all of its citizens;
 
WHEREAS, increasing tolerance, respect and acceptance of one another will strengthen this region as a community, deepening bonds between neighbors and fostering a welcoming environment;
           
WHEREAS, a commitment to diversity will enhance the local and regional economy, creating a positive, forward-thinking environment that will help attract business and create jobs;
 
WHEREAS, the region's workforce should reflect the different cultures, backgrounds, and abilities of the members of our community; and

WHEREAS, the DCCVA recognizes that a diverse workforce will result in the introduction of innovative ideas and provide varying and unique perspectives; and

WHEREAS, discrimination of all kinds is wrong and presents a stumbling block to the pursuit of full equality;
 
WHEREAS, we affirm the right of all citizens to live free of discrimination.
 
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Dane County Cities' & Villages Association, it is the advocacy policy of the Association to reject discrimination of any kind and to respect the inherent worth of every person, without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, handicap, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or political affiliation, and the DCCVA encourages members to adopt non-discrimination ordinances in their own communities within their jurisdiction.