Title
A resolution recognizing the protests in Colombia and offering support to the Colombian community in Nashville and Davidson County.
Body
WHEREAS, in late April, protests began in Colombia in response to policies proposed by the government in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic; and
WHEREAS, these policies brought longstanding frustrations of many Colombian citizens to the forefront; and
WHEREAS, students, teachers, health workers, farmers, Indigenous communities and many others have come together in the streets to protest these government policies; and
WHEREAS, protesters are calling for reforms including a minimum income and the withdrawal of a proposed health reform plan; and
WHEREAS, the protesters are also asking for prevention of police violence. These pleas have been intensified by reports of women being raped by police during the protests; and
WHEREAS, while many have been unified in protest, the protests have been met with violence; and
WHEREAS, at least 42 people have died, according to official government accounts, but organizations such as Human Rights Watch believe the actual death toll is likely much higher; and
WHEREAS, Colombia’s Defensoría del Pueblo, a government agency that tracks alleged human rights violations, has received 168 reports of people who have disappeared during the protests. Only some of these individuals reported missing have been found; and
WHEREAS, over 70,000 Latinos live in Nashville and Davidson County. For Colombians living in Nashville, it can be difficult to watch these protests and violence from afar; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council stands in solidarity with Nashville’s Colombian community, especially those with family in Colombia who are affected by these policies and these protests.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. That the Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as recognizing the protests in Colombia and offering support to the Colombian community in Nashville and Davidson County.
Section 2. That this Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.