Subject:
Title
Resolution to recognize Liberty Amendments Month
Body
EXPLANATION AND SUMMARY:
Town Manager Mercury Payton is behind an initiative to establish both a Liberty Amendments Day holiday as well as a month-long celebration recognizing ratification of the 13th, 14th, 15th, and 19th amendments to the U.S. Constitution. These four amendments expand basic liberties and political rights in our nation.
In September, Council adopted Liberty Amendments Day as an official Town holiday and paid day off for staff members to celebrate and reflect. Liberty Amendments Day is celebrated on the third Monday in July, which is July 19 in 2021. The Town Manager also is working with Councilmembers, state representatives, and municipal colleagues across the region to promote the idea that Liberty Amendments Day be adopted as an official or unofficial holiday in the Commonwealth of Virginia and that Liberty Amendments Month be recognized as well.
Liberty Amendments Month would be celebrated beginning on Juneteenth (June 19) and culminate with Liberty Amendments Day on the third Monday in July. The Town intends to partner with Vienna community organizations to host special events and activities next summer to commemorate Liberty Amendments Month. Examples of events/activities that could be hosted include an election on a Town initiative specifically for residents under the age of 18; lectures and panel discussions on the impact of these four amendments on our lives; videos, movies, and concerts to illustrate the many ways each of us can enrich our country; and a festival celebrating our cultural diversity.
Strategic Plan Initiative:
Vienna is a complete community.
Departmental Recommendation: Approval of resolution.
Finance Recommendation: N/A
Purchasing Recommendation: N/A
Town Attorney Recommendation: Town Council may adopt the proposed resolution in its discretion.
Town Manager's Recommendation: I recommend the Town Council approve a resolution to recognize Liberty Amendments Month, as presented.
Cost and Financing: N/A
Account Number: N/A
Decision Needed by This date: December 7, 2020
PROPOSED/SUGGESTED MOTION
Recommended Action
"I move to approve a resolution to recognize Liberty Amendments Month."
Or
Other action deemed necessary by Council.