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From: Rene Trowbridge <br />To: 2Mavor; Edwards, Erin; Melendrez, Andv; rgierroCariversideca.gov; Conder, Chuck; Plascencia, Gabv; Perry, Jim; <br />she menway(c riversideca.org <br />Subject: [External] Concerned Citizen regarding Free Speech <br />Date: Saturday, July 17, 2021 10:41:06 PM <br />Ms. Mayor and Riverside City Councilmembers, <br />I am so disappointed and disheartened that your actions and words prevented an event in Riverside and cancelled it. <br />I have been a resident of Riverside for over 54 years and you certainly do not represent what I want for my <br />community and my family. We believe in Godly values and freedom for all people, regardless of race or beliefs. The <br />tension and division you caused with your social media posts claiming that the speakers at the rally would promote <br />hate, were unfounded. Many people still went to support them today and I watched live stream of the event to <br />support it and saw many people across the street screaming and holding signs of profanity and hate, while those who <br />supported the speakers held American flags and were in favor of the protection of our country. I heard nothing that <br />promoted hate from the speakers. I am so upset that you are encouraging the hate and divisiveness within our City <br />and I want you to know that I, along with my friends and family, will continue to stand up for what is right in the <br />eyes of God. I support free speech. I support education for my kids without them being forced to wear masks or <br />pressured into getting a vaccine. I support churches being open without so many requirements being placed on them <br />as to when they need to shut down. We need God now more than ever. Please do not put pressure and cause division <br />in my city. Everyone has the right to assemble and speak without being fearful that they will be attacked while doing <br />so. I'm thankful for Riverside law enforcement that keeps the peace at these events. Please do what is right and <br />protect our great city while you are in office. At this point, I'm not sure how long that will last, but during this time, <br />look inside your heart and do what is right in our community by bringing us together, not tearing us apart. <br />Sincerely, <br />Rene Trowbridge <br />A very concerned lifelong Riverside resident <br />Sent from my iPhone <br />