The St. Cloud City Council on Jan. 9 adopted a proclamation declaring that the city disavows its historical reputation as a "sundown" town and affirming a commitment to inclusivity.

Council member Jennifer A. Paul introduced the proclamation, reading language that referenced the NAACP Osceola County branch 5121 and cited the legacy of segregation in some communities. "I, Jennifer A. Paul, council member, along with the city council ... do hereby rise together casting aside the darkness of our city's former reputation to joyfully declare on this 9th day of January 2025 that St. Cloud is now a place of hope, opportunity and new beginnings shining brightly on all citizens," Paul read as part of the proclamation text.

Nina Hill, identified in remarks as "Nina Hill, president of the NAACP Osceola County 5121," addressed the council after the proclamation. Hill said she was 67 and thanked the council and community, saying, "Growing up in the area...we're making history today," and pledged the NAACP’s willingness to work with the city going forward.

The proclamation was adopted by a 5–0 roll call vote (Deputy Mayor Fletcher, Council members Paul, Urban, Gilbert and Mayor Robertson — all aye). Council members invited NAACP members forward for a photo after adoption.

What the proclamation does and does not do

The proclamation is a symbolic statement of values and does not, in itself, change city code, policy, funding or legal obligations. Council members and NAACP representatives framed the act as a public acknowledgment and an invitation to further collaborative work.

Vote: Motion to adopt the proclamation was seconded by Council member Gilbert and passed 5–0.