The Sunset Hills Board of Aldermen unanimously passed a resolution adopting a diversity and inclusion statement for the city at the board’s Jan. 12 meeting.

The statement asserts that the city is committed to “cultivating and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness” in the community and that “our dimensions of difference are actually our greatest strength.”

Once adopted, the statement will be on the city’s website and used in other printed materials distributed by the city.

Ward 3 Alderman Cathy Friedmann first explored the idea at a board meeting in December. Aldermen agreed that City Administrator Brittany Gillett and city staff should develop a statement.

The full statement reads: “The City of Sunset Hills is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness within our community. We recognize that our dimensions of difference are actually our greatest strength and strive to foster an environment that enables all citizens within the community to feel empowered, valued, respected, and safe. By welcoming all individuals regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, religion, age, sexual orientation, disability, life experience, geographical background, skills, talents or other valued difference, we truly begin to know, trust, support, and learn from our neighbors. Here in the City of Sunset Hills, we believe in including everyone.”