NORTHAMPTON — The city’s Human Rights Commission sees need for a civility pledge in the city, and as of Thursday the City Council agrees.

Commissioners told councilors they proposed the measure in light of an increase in denigrating and hateful language, both in Northampton and around the country.

“There have been some instances of nastiness,” Laurie Loisel told councilors. “And that’s not the community we want to live in.”

Loisel said the Police Department affirmed an increase in reports of language referenced in the resolution, including “racist slurs, homophobic name-calling, sexist catcalls.”

Councilors unanimously approved the resolution codifying the city’s commitment to civility — a measure that included a pledge to that effect — without further discussion in first reading.

Booker Bush, also on the commission, told councilors the resolution formalizes the city’s stance against hate speech.

The sad fact this is an issue at all was not lost on councilors.

“So you’re asking the City Council to support a document calling for decency?” City Council President Bill Dwight asked, flatly.

“Yes,” Loisel responded. “And then we’re going to ask you to sign it.”

Commissioners said they would soon distribute the pledge throughout the city.

Amanda Drane can be contacted at adrane@gazettenet.com. 

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