That Somerville establish a sister-city relationship with Pryluky, Ukraine.

WHEREAS: The City of Somerville has a long-standing commitment to fostering global connections, cultural exchange, and solidarity through its sister-city relationships; and WHEREAS: The people of Ukraine, including the residents of the city of Pryluky, have demonstrated extraordinary resilience, courage, and commitment to justice and democracy in the face of adversity; and WHEREAS: Pryluky, an historic city in northern Ukraine, represents a community whose values of perseverance, cultural heritage, and pursuit of peace align with Somerville’s own dedication to equity, justice, and human dignity; and WHEREAS: The City of Somerville recognizes that international partnerships strengthen mutual understanding, provide opportunities for cultural, educational, and economic exchange, and reaffirm our shared humanity; and WHEREAS: Councilor Wilfred Mbah was inspired to submit this resolution by his colleagues, residents of Chernihiv region, whom he met at the Certificate in Public Leadership conference in Washington, D.C., as a symbol of the personal connections that bridge our communities; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That the Somerville City Council hereby declares its intent to establish a sister-city relationship with Pryluky, Ukraine, as a demonstration of solidarity, friendship, and mutual support between our communities; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the City of Somerville will work in collaboration with community leaders, residents, and partners in both cities to foster programs of cultural exchange, educational partnerships, and mutual support initiatives that strengthen this bond; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That copies of this resolution be sent to the Mayor of Pryluky, the Ukrainian Consulate in Boston, and representatives of the Ukrainian-American community in Boston to affirm Somerville’s commitment to international friendship, justice, and peace.