In the wake of Zoom bombers hijacking public meetings throughout the Bay Area and spewing hate speech, the Milpitas City Council is requiring that public comments to be delivered in person or in writing through the end of the year.
In recent weeks, members of the public have logged in to virtual meetings in cities including Saratoga, Sacramento, Monterey, El Cerrito, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, South San Francisco and Livermore and made racist, homophobic and other prejudicial comments. These speakers often monopolized the public comment portion of the meetings.
“We stand firmly against any form of bigotry, racism or prejudice. Such views have no place in Milpitas, and we are committed to fostering an environment where all our residents feel safe, valued and included,” said Mayor Carmen Montano in a statement.
Vice Mayor Evelyn Chua said Zoom bombers cross the line between free speech and hate speech.
“We encourage open and respectful dialogue, where differing opinions can be shared and discussed constructively,” Chua said. “However, we draw the line at speech that seeks to divide, demean or harm Milpitas community members.”
Members of the public will be required to attend public governmental meetings in Milpitas in person if they want to comment on an agenda item. They will also continue to have the option to share comments through email and/or regular mail, but these will not be verbalized during city council meetings. However, every comment submitted will be provided to the city council and will be considered a public record.
