Human Rights Commission Proclamation

Posted: July 13, 2026 in City News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Decorah Human Rights Commission

Press Contact: Nikki Battle, Chairperson

 

Human Rights Commission Proclamation

 

WHEREAS, the City of Decorah, Iowa, stands as a beacon of inclusivity, diversity, and respect for all residents, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity; and

 

WHEREAS, the essence of Decorah lies in the commitment to fostering a safe, welcoming, and harmonious environment for every individual, free from discrimination, hatred, or prejudice; and

 

WHEREAS, we believe in the importance of acknowledging and confronting images and symbols that are harmful; and

 

WHEREAS, it has come the commission’s attention that the band, Confederate Railroad, which uses confederate imagery is performing at the county fairgrounds, which lay within Decorah City Limits, and

 

WHEREAS, we condemn the usage of imagery such as the Confederate flag, as it cannot be separated from its origins and “as symbols carry memory, emotion, and history, often all at once” as stated by Carl Gustav Jung; and

 

WHEREAS, we recognize that unity, empathy, and education are essential tools in addressing and educating the public on harmful imagery, and we commit to fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding within our community; and

 

WHEREAS, the Human Rights Commission reaffirms its dedication to advocate for diversity education and awareness in the community; and

 

NOW, THEREFORE, We, the Human Rights Commission, Decorah, Iowa, do hereby proclaim:

  1. Our unequivocal condemnation of the usage of harmful imagery of the confederate flag within the city limits of Decorah, Iowa.
  2. Our commitment to continuing efforts to educate our community about the importance of diversity, inclusion, and acceptance, and to foster an environment where everyone feels they belong.
  3. Our pledge to stand firmly with those who work to educate the public on the context of harmful images and symbols, both past and present.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands and caused the seal of the City of Decorah, Iowa, to be affixed this 10th day of July, 2026.

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