On November 28th, 1996 the Fremont City Council (California) unanimously passed a new affirmative action resolution. The Resolution opposed proposed legislation eliminating affirmative action programs and reaffirmed the City of Fremont's concept of universal opportunity. It read as follows:

Whereas, the City of Fremont has been richly endowed through the cultural diversity of its population; and

Whereas, the City of Fremont recognizes the valuable contributions made to society by women and men of various cultures and ethnic groups and persons with disabilities; and

Whereas, there is documented evidence to indicate individual and institutional barriers to equal opportunity exists for significant numbers of women, minorities and persons with disabilities; and

Whereas, the City of Fremont has consistently been committed to assure a level field of opportunity for all of its citizens; and

Whereas affirmative action has proven its value as a remedial concept in the removal of barriers for women and men of various ethnic/cultural groups who have been denied equal access to participation in education, employment, housing, business contracts and bank loans on an equal basis; and,

Whereas, concerted action is underway at various state levels and within the U.S. Congress to abolish all aspects of affirmative action; now,

Therefore Be lt Resolved that the City of Fremont will continue to advocate on behalf of affirmative action designed to provide fair equal access to employment, educational and economic opportunity tor all its citizens; will support positive legislative reform; will vigorously oppose legislative or other action, at whatever governmental level, designed to either eliminate or undermine the basic principles of affirmative action.

This model resolution is offered to civil rights organizations as a model for resolutions that can be submitted to city and county governments around the country.