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Iowa City council adopts 'All Are Welcome' resolution urged by Human Rights Commission
Summary
The council unanimously approved a resolution affirming the city's commitment to inclusivity and encouraging community institutions to declare themselves discrimination‑free. The Human Rights Commission and several speakers urged adoption; commissioners noted state changes to protections for gender identity.
The Iowa City City Council unanimously adopted a resolution May 6 declaring that “All are welcome in Iowa City” and encouraging businesses, nonprofit organizations, houses of worship, schools and neighborhood associations to endorse a message of non‑discrimination.
The Human Rights Commission introduced the resolution earlier this year and recommended council adoption. During public comment Commissioner Mark Priest and other speakers asked the council to approve the language and noted recent state‑level actions affecting protections for gender identity in the Iowa Civil Rights Act. Priest described the measure as a community statement and urged the council to proceed.
The resolution states the city's commitment to fostering inclusivity, equity and protection of rights for all and invites partner organizations to declare themselves “non‑discrimination partners.” Council members said the language reflects community values and agreed to approve it without amendment. The resolution passed by a 7–0 vote.
Councilors noted the resolution is symbolic and intended to encourage local organizations to adopt non‑discrimination statements; it does not change existing municipal code. Several council members cited recent state actions and the local Human Rights Commission’s advocacy when explaining their votes.
