Sec. 11-136. - Policy statement.

(a)

In conformance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, it is the policy of the city to foster and actively promote equal opportunity in employment on the basis of ability to perform work, and to eliminate and prevent discrimination on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, handicap and national origin within the city service and the jurisdiction of the city.

(b)

One of the most complex and tragic problems confronting the nation today is the absence of true equal opportunity for all people. While there have been civil rights laws enacted during the past to ensure such equality, many individuals and institutions have been negligent in meeting the requirements of these laws, to the extent that equal opportunity for all people, in fact, is not a reality.

(c)

The denial of equal access to opportunities for development and growth has permitted discrimination to continue in a variety of forms. Therefore, proposed remedies must go beyond the mere announcement of an equal opportunity policy. We recognize and accept the responsibility to design and implement programs which strike at the total problem rather than simple overt manifestations. We must strive aggressively to ensure the entry and growth of minorities and women in our work force until it is emphatically clear that equality of opportunity in the city is a reality.

(d)

To achieve ultimate effectiveness in affirmative action, our efforts toward equal opportunity for all people must extend above and beyond the letter of the law; that is, total commitment to this goal on the part of every city employee. The city shall further move to solicit free and equal access by minorities and women to all of its services, including participation in its activities and representation on its boards and commissions. Your cooperation and support in affirmative action program efforts is essential in assuring equal opportunity in the city.

(Rev. Ords. 1987, § 11-136)