Responding to concerns and calls for action from Gorham residents, including students, the Town Council (TC) addressed “a resolution to assist with ending systemic racism” sponsored by Councilor Virginia Wilder Cross at its August 4 regular meeting. The proposal asked the TC to resolve to “end oppression/ misrepresentation of minority groups, and to continue to assure that law enforcement honors equal justice for all in Gorham.”

Acknowledging that “minority groups in Gorham often experience discrimination in various forms” in this “predominately white community with a growing population representing diversity of color, culture, language, sexual preference,” the resolution committed the town to “educating residents about ending discrimination” and to maintaining “a close and respectable relationship with our local law enforcement.”

In recognizing the efforts of Gorham citizens to peacefully support the Black Lives Matter movement through marches and vigils, the resolution “affirms and acknowledges that Black Lives Matter” and commends the Gorham Police Department for ensuring “the safety of local protests.” It listed a number of ways the police department can provide a welcoming atmosphere for people of color, called for more public information on departmental policies, and committed to providing resources for anti-bias and de-escalation training.

The resolution “condemns any form of hatred or bigotry in the community against any person or group” and commits to addressing “any members of its organizations or departments who are affiliated with any hate groups to the extent legally possible.” It supports opportunities for the voices and stories from all members of the community to be heard.