Mayor Kuntz Speaks Out Against Racism in Owatonna
On June 20, I was made aware that several Owatonna residents received fliers containing racist and antisemitic statements on Juneteenth.
The statements made in these fliers are a direct contradiction to the City of Owatonna’s Mission Statement: “The Mayor and City Council shall represent the people of Owatonna by making decisions which ensure quality public services for all who live and work in the community.” On behalf of the City Council, I can assure you the City of Owatonna has zero tolerance for racism.
While we support the First Amendment, we stand strongly against those who hide behind it to promote hate. Our message to those who are distributing such messages is that there’s no place for hate in Owatonna. Owatonna is a community that is becoming more diverse as it grows.
The Owatonna Human Rights Commission is aware of this matter. The Owatonna Police Department has also been informed and is investigating the situation to determine whether a bias-motivated crime has occurred.
I hope you will join me in standing up for equal rights for all who call Owatonna ‘home’. All are welcome here.
Most Sincerely,
Thomas Kuntz, Mayor of Owatonna