09/21/2025
I sent the following message to all City Employees this week:
Good Evening, Richmond City Employees:
Pursuant to recent events and after conversations with the state's Attorney General and our own Legal Council, I find it necessary to promote peace and goodwill through the attached document. Richmond is a city with a long history of welcoming diversity while promoting peace and prosperity. It is through our positive actions that together we can continue down the good path to long-lasting success.
Office of the Mayor Executive Order No. 2-2025 Issued: September 16, 2025
Subject: Zero Tolerance for Advocacy of Political Violence
Authority: Pursuant to the powers vested in the Mayor of Richmond under Indiana Code § 36-4-5 and the Richmond City Charter, this Executive Order sets forth the City’s standard of conduct for employees, appointees, and members of City boards and commissions.
Findings: The assassination of Charlie Kirk in front of students in Utah shocked our nation. In the aftermath, Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita rightly stated: “Now is the time to oppose political violence — not justify it.” The City of Richmond echoes this conviction.
Public servants carry a duty that extends beyond their job descriptions. Words spoken or written by City employees—especially those that glorify or promote violence—erode trust, place our community at risk, and stand in direct conflict with the values of public service. Violence, whether threatened or celebrated, has no place in the work of government or in the platforms of those who represent it.
Order:
1. All City employees, appointees, and members of boards and commissions are prohibited from advocating for, inciting, or celebrating political violence in any form, including through social media and other public platforms.
2. Allegations or evidence of such conduct will be promptly investigated by the Office of Human Resources and the Office of Law. Where appropriate, matters will also be referred to law enforcement for
review under applicable criminal statutes.
3. Violations will not be ignored. Corrective action—up to and including suspension or removal from service—will be considered in line with City policy, contractual agreements, and due process.
4. This Order does not restrict the lawful expression of political views. Richmond respects the right of its employees to personal opinions. But the line is clear: once speech crosses into advocacy of violence, it becomes incompatible with public service.
Commitment: The citizens of Richmond deserve a workforce that reflects the best of our shared humanity. The death of any individual, regardless of their beliefs or standing, should never be met with celebration. Public service demands compassion, restraint, and respect for the dignity of life.
By drawing this line, the City makes clear: we will not tolerate speech or conduct that glorifies violence or diminishes the value of human life. Our duty is to foster a community built on safety, empathy, and respect—not division or hostility.
Signed:
Ronald Oler – Mayor Kenyatta Cox – Director of Human Resources AJ Sickmann – Corporate Counsel
