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.. <br />,.- <br />A Resolution Regarding Civil Discourse in Orange County <br />WHEREAS, it is the duty of local governments to be representative of the people; and, <br />WHEREAS, in a democracy, at times there is constructive disagreement among people; <br />and, <br />WHEREAS, there are ongoing discussions about the future of this county, but all citizens <br />are working together to create effective public policy that serves the needs of <br />the community; and, <br />WHEREAS, in a democracy, the fullest expression of diverse opinions and free discourse is <br />the essence of civil debate; and, <br />WHEREAS, divergent opinion that focuses on issues is welcome and necessary; and, <br />WHEREAS, free speech does not encompass incitement to violence against people or slurs <br />against the ethnic, religious, racial heritage or sexual orientation of other <br />people; or reference, provocation, or threats of violence against any citizen; <br />and, <br />WHEREAS, violation of the limit of free speech is ultimately destructive to the democratic <br />process; and, <br />WHEREAS, we, the elected and appointed officials of Orange County will set examples for <br />the population at large in pursuit of these democratic principles. <br />NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we adhere to the principles outlined above, <br />agree to abide by them, and call on all citizens of Orange County to conduct <br />themselves in accordance herewith. <br />tti(.~.~c- YY( <br />Alice M. ordon, a' <br />Stephen H. Halk ~otis, Vice Chair <br />