07/13/1981 Meeting (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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Nancy Uhlhorn, Clergy and Laity Concerned, stated that they favor passage of this ordinance. In addition, she has both black and white children and for e their safety would also urge passage of this ordinance. R. C. Darby stated he agreed with Mr. Fischhoff. He noted that he is a minority and parent of mixed children. The ordinance will protect all citizens. He urges adoption of the ordinance. Julie Aspinwall-Lamberts, President, Eugene Commission on the Rights of Women, stated that she is here to comment on the proposed ordinance dealing with intimidation and harassment. This ordinance arose out of incidences of harass- ment both in this community and elsewhere in the state, resulting in fear and physical injury to individual citizens. This harassment was clearly directed at these persons solely because of their membership in groups that have historically been the subject of social abuse. Concern has not only been voiced locally, but also at the State level, as evidenced by legislation recently proposed by the State House and Senate. The Commissions on the Rights of Women and Minorities, as well as the Common Council through its Legislative Subcommittee, have actively supported the passage of House Bill 2703. This bill would create the crime of intimidation, and includes within its protection the groupings of individuals named in the ordinance before the council tonight. At this point, it is unclear what the future of this proposed legislation will be. However, regardless of the outcome, they feel that Eugene should remain a recognized leader in the protection of individual rights by the adoption of this ordinance. She further stated that it has traditionally been the case that violence against members of disadvantaged groups is heightened in times of economic decline. The groups enumerated by the ordinance would, by their position in society, be particularly e vulnerable to the venting of the frustrations held by some segments of the community. In Eugene, violence against women has increased in recent years. Nationally, studies have shown that economic factors playa role in the increased incidence of rape and domestic abuse. The increase in the number of such problems in Eugene may also be linked to these factors. Similarly, persons of differing lifestyles are often perceived by some as being more vulnerable and therefore convenient targets for the venting of frustration and anger. Life- styles such as one's marital status or sexual orientation reflect choices lawfully made by citizens in this society. Persons making such choices deserve to lead a life free from violence perpetrated by those holding different beliefs. Violence in this society and in this community is unacceptable. It is particular- ly unacceptable when it is visited upon people solely by virtue of their belong- ing to a particular status group and when it is unrelated to any conduct of that indi vi dua 1 . In their advisory capacity to the City Council, the Women's Commis- sion believes that this ordinance addresses concern voiced by mutual constituents. Therefore, on behalf of the Eugene Commission on the Rights of Women, she strongly recommends the adoption of this ordinance. Dana Weinstein, 585 West 26th, stated that she was asked by clients and members of the gay community to address the council on their behalf. They would applaud any efforts the council and the community can take to make sure these kinds of actions will be stopped. People in the gay community have told her of similar e MINUTES--Eugene City Council July 13, 1981 Page 3