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From: Joan Donahue To: 2Mayor; Edwards, Erin; Fierro, Ronaldo; Conder, Chuck; Plascencia, Gabv; Perry, Jim; Hemenway, Steve; Cervantes, Cindy Subject: [External] League of Women Voters Riverside/America First Rally 7-17 Date: Friday, July 16, 2021 11:55:28 AM Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council, League of Women Voters Riverside writes to ask the Riverside City Council demand that the Riverside Convention Center cancel its agreement to facilitate a rally for "America First" and its advocates, U.S. Reps Marjorie Taylor Greene and Matt Gaetz, on Saturday, July 17th "America First," as defined by Rep. Greene and reported by CNN promotes, "a common respect for uniquely Anglo-Saxon political tradition .... a flyer for the group outlined a nativist argument warning that `mass immigration' poses a threat to `the long-term existential future of America as a unique country with a unique culture and a unique identity. "' We are at a loss to understand why the Riverside Convention Center would welcome a group that advances this kind of white supremacist rhetoric. Riverside takes great pride in its diversity and inclusivity. Plus, if nothing else, Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida is under federal investigation for allegations involving sex trafficking and prostitution. We appreciate that the convention center is a business and has a responsibility to its bottom line. But the convention center also has a responsibility, as a city funded entity, to respect the city's ideals and reject business that will reflect negatively on our city's image and leave residents questioning our city's priorities. Laguna Hills in Orange County cancelled a scheduled "America First" event shortly after learning more details. The fact that organizers of this event spent a week trying to find another venue in Orange County and came up empty speaks volumes. Moreover, nothing will cause a business to sever its ties with an entity faster than racist rhetoric. As this event may draw national attention, we encourage you to remind the Convention Center staff of all possible repercussions. As for First Amendment arguments, Rep. Greene regularly has an open forum in the national media. It is well known what will be said at the event and the supporters the event will likely draw. This knowledge is, in fact, the reason for heightened security concerns. We trust you will make the Convention Center staff fully aware of the price to be paid for hosting this event and demand that they cancel the event's permit for Saturday, July 17th. We encourage you to stand by our city's ideals and send a message that Riverside does not reflect or condone the white supremacist agenda. We feel sure the people of Riverside do not want or deserve this kind of convention business. Sincerely,