Reading Select Board unanimously adopts Human Rights Resolution

(2-minute read)

On Tuesday, December 2, 2025, the Reading Select Board voted 5-0 to adopt a Human Rights Resolution, formally affirming the Town’s commitment to dignity, inclusion, and equal protection for all residents. The vote marked the conclusion of a process that began nearly eight years ago, when the resolution was first submitted to the Select Board in January 2017.

At the time of its original submission, the resolution generated strong community support. Still, it was ultimately not adopted due to concerns raised by Town Counsel regarding the wording of certain sections. That outcome disappointed many residents who had hoped for a clear and public statement of values from town leadership.

On December 7, 2025, the Select Board revisited the resolution after it was reviewed and revised by Director of Equity and Social Justice Albert Pless and Town Counsel Ivria Fried. Board members noted that the updated language addressed prior legal concerns, allowing the Select Board to move forward unanimously.

The adopted resolution recognizes Reading’s history as a community shaped by diversity, immigration, and religious freedom. It explicitly affirms that the Town welcomes and embraces all who live, work, learn, worship, and visit in Reading - regardless of gender, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. It also commits the Select Board to building trust, ensuring safety, advocating for all residents, and actively opposing discrimination and intolerance in all forms.

The timing of the vote is significant, as it occurred the week before Human Rights Day on December 10, an international observance honoring the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the United Nations in 1948. Human Rights Day serves as a global reminder that all people are entitled to fundamental rights and freedoms, including the right to equality, freedom from discrimination, and the right to live with dignity and security.

In times of uncertainty, especially for communities that may feel vulnerable due to their identity, background, or beliefs, public affirmations of support carry real weight. Resolutions like this one do more than state values; they signal to residents that their local government recognizes their humanity, stands with them, and is committed to protecting their well-being.

The resolution also emphasizes unity amid political disagreement. While acknowledging that debate and vigorous discussions are essential parts of the democratic process, the Select Board affirms that on fundamental human rights, Reading stands entirely and enthusiastically united.

With this vote, Reading formally joins communities across the country that have chosen to articulate their values clearly and publicly - reinforcing that human rights are not abstract ideals, but shared responsibilities. As the resolution concludes: “We are one town. And we will move forward together.”

Photo of the Human Rights Resolution with the signatures of the Reading Select Board. Photo provided by Select Board member Karen Herrick.