Redwood City — The Board of Supervisors today reaffirmed its commitment to diverse and historically marginalized groups, assuring the public that values and local protections have not changed in the face of new federal priorities.
“We know there is a growing effort to dehumanize, degrade and tear apart our vulnerable communities and it is on us as County leaders to protect our most vulnerable communities during this time of fear and uncertainty,” said District Two Supervisor Noelia Corzo who co-sponsored the resolution. “Here in San Mateo County, we can make a choice not to backslide decades in our social progress.”
The Board reaffirmed several past steps it has taken to ensure populations such as immigrants, people of color, LGBTQIA+ and those with disabilities feel welcome and secure in San Mateo County. These include:
- A resolution to advance and improve the County’ s racial equity efforts, including the creation of an Office of Racial and Social Equity and a chief equity officer position;
- An ordinance to promote racial and social equity through specific goals including integrating equity as a core value for strategic and budgetary decisions;
- Establishing a removal defense fund and the Rapid Response Hotline;
- Hosting “Know Your Rights” trainings and contributing to the Immigrant Families Recovery Fund;
- Establishing the County’s LGBTQIA+ Commission and supporting the San Mateo County Pride Center;
- Establishing a dedicated women and children’s officer position and adopting a comprehensive Women and Children’s Action plan to address inequities, expand services and enhance opportunities for economic mobility;
- Promoting inclusive and accessible activities and resources for those with disabilities, including the annual Inclusion Festival.
These actions held lead to San Mateo County being nationally recognized in January 2024 as a “Certified Welcoming County” — a first for any county in the country. Supervisors also hope the historical support will help quell current anxiety which may keep some from seeking services, education and employment.
District Three Supervisor Ray Mueller, the resolution’s other co-sponsor, noted that some students are avoiding school and adults are not attending work out of fear of immigration officials.
“It’s just horrific to be watching,” he said before speaking directly to transgender youth: “To those kids right now, you are loved and you are valued and this county will stand behind you.”
Today’s vote also provided new Supervisors Jackie Speier, District One, and Supervisor Lisa Gauthier, District Four, the opportunity to voice their support for the Board’s previous commitments. Gauthier successfully suggested adding indigenous people to the list of populations specifically named in the resolution.
Michelle Durand
Chief Communications Officer
mdurand@smcgov.org