Gaithersburg Mayor, City Council Release Statement on Civility, Engagement

From City of Gaithersburg: The City of Gaithersburg is steadfast in its commitment to protect human rights and comport our business in a respectful, civil manner. Unfortunately, as a nation, we are witnessing some acts of behavior and discourse that cannot and should not be tolerated. In Gaithersburg we lean heavily on our 20 year involvement with the CHARACTER COUNTS! program to guide how we govern and how we nurture a community that allows neighbors of diverse backgrounds and experiences to live together in a welcoming environment, thereby enriching us all.

The CHARACTER COUNTS! program is founded on the Six Pillars of Character, concepts of human decency that cross all religious, ethnic, cultural, economic, and social boundaries. We do not take our involvement in this program lightly, and it is not just a program for school children. There are lessons to be learned by all of us, and our commitment to these values will go a long way towards ensuring that the Gaithersburg community remains one of inclusion, understanding, dignity and hope.

Trustworthiness

Gaithersburg’s residents can trust that its local government officials and staff will treat everyone with dignity. We will stand strong in our defense of our constitutional rights and the protection of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for all who choose to live in our community.

Respect

Gaithersburg must be a community in which respect for our neighbors is paramount. Verbal and physical abuse, harassment, hate crimes, discriminatory business practices, anti-immigrant activity, vandalism – none of these has a place in our community, and we will be vocal and proactive in our defense of the freedoms of those who live here.

Responsibility

Each of us has a role to play in this endeavor. Your City government is responsible for conducting its business in a manner that listens to community concerns and governs thoughtfully. Those who live and work in Gaithersburg are responsible for speaking up, for voicing their opinions, listening to others and for getting involved to effect change.

Fairness

The fundamentals of our democracy must be applied fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated, and we will work to ensure that everyone who lives in Gaithersburg is aware of their rights and afforded equal and free access to opportunities.

Caring

Consider volunteering to help those in need of your support. Being a good neighbor, being a good co-worker, being a good friend – all of these are essential to living our daily lives in a meaningful, impactful way. Compassion and understanding must be at the root of how we govern and how we interact as a city.

Citizenship

Our democracy is only as strong as the engagement and involvement of our citizenry. You have the opportunity and the ability to make a significant difference in government at its most local level. We implore you to become involved, to volunteer, to actively defend the values that ensure a civil society.

The City Council and I know that Gaithersburg is a strong, inclusive community. You have our word that we will continue to uphold its moral traditions and its ethical standards. We are confident that with your active involvement, our future will be an optimistic one.

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