We, the undersigned residents of Fremont and the surrounding area, come together in support of our immigrant neighbors.

As a small town, we are connected to one another. Together, we work, attend school, go to church, volunteer, and support local businesses – all to make Fremont a welcoming, thriving and vibrant community for everyone.

The immigrant community is an important part of our identity because we are a city with deep roots in many different communities. In fact many of our businesses were started by German, Polish, Irish, Mexican, Italian and an array of people representing ethnically diverse communities. We are also fortunate to be a racially diverse community as well. Together, all of our families make up Fremont’s rich tapestry and, collectively, we have worked hard to make this a wonderful community to call home.

For years, people working in many industries have migrated to our town, and we have a history of welcoming them along their migration journey– from fields and farms to fishing and factories . Our immigrant neighbors are raising children here, are active in faith communities, and have opened their own businesses to contribute to Fremont’s economy. While many came for work, they stayed for community – and many to raise families.

We believe that a strong small town is built on hospitality, fairness, and respect for everyone. We strive to ensure that everyone feels safe, welcome and seen, because when this does not happen, it impacts our entire community. We want our community to remain a place where people look out for one another and where everyone can live with dignity and without fear.

While we all have our own unique perspective, we find common purpose in ensuring that we have good schools, that our streets are safe and that we work together to make our city a wonderful place to live. We find unity in our common cause of modeling what it looks like to be a good neighbor, to care for one another and to contribute to our city. For this reason, we commit to joining in unity to:

By signing this pledge, we commit to being welcoming neighbors and call on our local leaders to:

1) Embody our motto “Where People Come First” by ensuring that this includes all people who
live and work in Fremont whether it be year round, part-year or temporarily.

2) Affirm that all people, including immigrants, are an important part of our town and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

3) Support efforts that keep all residents safe and ensure fair treatment for everyone in our community.

4) Encourage institutions such as schools and local organizations to foster understanding and inclusion.

5) Reject harassment, discrimination, and intimidation in any form.

6)Work together to maintain the welcoming, neighborly spirit that defines our town.

We, the signatories below, sign this petition to demonstrate that we are united and committed to ensuring that our city remains a place where everyone can feel included, welcome, and supported to be able to contribute to the city’s bright future.