[External] Against the America First Rally in ...

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From: Karen Rowan To: 2Mavor; Edwards, Erin Subject: [External] Against the America First Rally in Riverside Date: Friday, July 16, 2021 11:11:44 AM Dear Mayor Lock -Dawson and Councilmember Edwards, I am a Riverside resident, living in Ward 1 less than a mile from the Riverside Convention Center. I am also a lesbian mother of a biracial son. My multiracial family and I often walk together downtown, particularly to shop at the farmer's market and participate in mobile gaming events together (like Pokemon Go). It may seem trivial, but we enjoy being able to explore our city, share family time together in public spaces, and meet neighbors and fellow community members. Until the news broke that the America First rally is scheduled to be held this Saturday at the Riverside Convention Center, we planned to be spending a lot of time downtown this weekend for one of these gaming events. Now, however, we will have to reassess whether that will be safe for us. America First is a racist, right wing extremist organization whose leaders supported the January 6 insurrection and continue to promote anti-democractic, racist, sexist, anti-LGBT, and anti -immigrant ideas, actions, and policies. This organization and its leaders are a threat to Riverside residents and this event is not in keeping with our city's stated values and commitments. I understand that the City of Riverside does not manage the convention center and that neither the Mayor nor the City Council can cancel this event. I nevertheless expect and request that you as Mayor and Councilmember work with your colleagues to bring all possible pressure to bear on the Raincross Hospitality Corporation to put democracy, diversity, equity and safety before profit and cancel this event. Thank you, Karen Rowan Ward 1 Resident