Sweet Home Denounces Racism

SWEET HOME, Ore. January 14, 2022 - The City of Sweet Home is disheartened to hear allegations of racist behavior by members of our community. We condemn any words, behaviors, or attitudes that provoke fear, shame, or hostility towards another person. 

A few of our elected officials shared their thoughts on the early reports. 

Sweet Home Mayor Greg Mahler said, "I heard of the racist allegations in our community. While we will wait for the process to determine innocence or guilt, there is no place in our community for racist behavior. The City Manager and I were contacted by each councilor expressing their frustration regarding any racist incidents in our community. I expect the Council will make a strong statement against racism in our community during our next meeting."

City Councilor Susan Coleman said, "As the only Councilor who is also a parent of a SHSD student, it deeply saddens and horrifies me that this type of thinking exists. It in no way represents the rest of our city. We are a community who values our neighbors, so there is no place for dishonoring those who visit.”

City Councilor Angelita Sanchez said, "As a woman of color elected to the City Council, Sweet Home has no room for racism within our community. It will not be tolerated or accepted. It should have ended long ago, so it needs to end today." 

The Sweet Home School District is cooperating fully to bring a swift resolution to this matter.

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