WHEREAS, Jerome Richardson is a senior majoring in political science at Temple University, a saxophone player, and a Christian. He is also an active youth leader that advocates for civil rights and community engagement; and
WHEREAS, Like many Americans, Jerome Richardson is deeply troubled by the increasingly violent and un-American tactics being used by ICE and other federal agents in cities across the United States, including violence and even lethal force against protesters; and
WHEREAS, Jerome Richardson, along with Don Lemon and several others were arrested and indicted by the federal government for exercising their First Amendment rights; and
WHEREAS, When he should be focused on graduating and enjoying his final months as a student, Jerome Richardson now has to face a federal indictment; and
WHEREAS, As the birthplace of America and modern-day democracy, Philadelphia is proud of our heritage as a place where residents have always spoken truth to power and stood up for our Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Protest, and other protected First Amendment rights, and Jerome Richardson is a continuation of this proud tradition; and
WHEREAS, Arresting journalists and those who help them document what is happening in our country during this pivotal moment is unconstitutional and antithetical to the values outlined by our Founding Fathers here in Philadelphia 250 years ago; and
WHEREAS, Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere, and this body has an obligation to speak up when one of our young constituents finds themselves in the Trump Administration’s crosshairs for exercising their constitutional rights; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA
,
Hereby expresses support for Jerome Richardson and our First Amendment rights in the face of political persecution against protestors by the Trump Administration.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to Mr. Jerome Richardson as a sign of the admiration and respect of this legislative body.
End