Calling for integrity and accountability in the workplace.

WHEREAS: It has been publicly reported that sexual harassment and intimidation have been perpetrated by a municipal employee against his coworkers and patrons; and WHEREAS: The Somerville City Council believes that all forms of discrimination, harassment, and intimidation in the workplace undermines the safety and rights of workers, especially for those workers who are survivors of domestic or sexual violence; and WHEREAS: These behaviors are particularly egregious within municipal government and undermines public trust in our vital public institutions and government leadership as a whole; and WHEREAS: This Council has submitted legislation to create a separate paid leave policy for survivors of violence, including domestic or sexual violence, which this Administration has yet to publicly support; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That the Somerville City Council stands against all workplace harassment and calls upon the Administration to support workers who face these behaviors by accommodating their needs above the comfort of perpetrators.