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VIDEO and PRESS RELEASE. From the San Mateo County Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, January, 30th, 2024 at 9:00am as a hybrid meeting.
And a press release from the SMCo County Executive’s Office on January 31st, 2024.
Click for Video
Starts at 53:20
Item #3: Presentation of a proclamation designating San Mateo County as a Certified Welcoming County.
“It’s Official: County of San Mateo Certified as “Welcoming Place ~ County only one in nation receiving highest distinction”
Redwood City – The County of San Mateo has been recognized as a Certified Welcoming place by Welcoming America, becoming the first county in California to achieve the distinction for its commitment to immigrant inclusion and belonging.
The County achieved Welcoming America’s 4-star Certified Welcoming designation, the only county in the nation to achieve the rating, and one of only 21 cities and counties in the United States. The program assesses local governments against the Welcoming Standard on their efforts to include and welcome immigrants in all areas of civic, social and economic life.
“We have always known that San Mateo County is special. That we recognize, embrace and celebrate our diversity – it contributes to the vibrancy and resilience of our community where everyone feels valued, respected and able to thrive. Now we are being recognized nationally for this spirit,” said Warren Slocum, president of the Board of Supervisors.
Slocum and County leaders gathered today to formally receive the certification from Welcoming America and thank the nearly 100 partners countywide who participated in the certification process.
The effort to become certified was led by the County’s Office of Community Affairs with the participation of numerous County departments as well as local residents and organizations across a wide array of disciplines. The application included more than 1,000 pieces of evidence. Welcoming America then conducted an audit and an intensive three-day interview process.
“We are thrilled to recognize San Mateo County in becoming a Certified Welcoming place, affirming its leadership in building policies and partnerships that enable all those making it home — including people with immigrant and refugee backgrounds — to thrive and belong,” said Rachel Perić, Welcoming America’s executive director. “We look forward to celebrating and supporting the community’s ongoing efforts to make the county a welcoming place for all.”
Among the factors Welcoming America considered in awarding the county four stars are:
- Efforts to improve standards of living and alleviate poverty by addressing equity within transportation, childcare and housing. In particular, Welcoming America cited opportunities for homeownership in the Harbor Trailer Park.
- Civic engagement programs, including the Community Alliance to Revitalize Our Neighborhoods (CARON) through the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office and the Farmworker Advisory Commission, which create opportunities for communication between residents and their government.
- Data collection efforts to help local governments and community organizations make better informed decisions.
At today’s gathering, the County also unveiled its new immigrant inclusion strategic plan.
Speakers at the event celebrated the work done so far but also looked to the future, noting that the strategic plan will serve as a blueprint for the community.
“As we celebrate this honor, we recognize that the work of welcoming is never finished and we look forward to continuing to find new ways to empower and support immigrant community members and all who call San Mateo County home,” said County Executive Mike Callagy. “We are a welcoming space, regardless of a formal recognition, but are so proud to be acknowledged on a national scale.”
Welcoming America is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that that leads a movement of inclusive communities becoming more prosperous by ensuring everyone belongs. Certified Welcoming is a formal designation by Welcoming America for cities and counties that have created policies and programs reflecting their commitment to immigrant inclusion.
NEW: Executive Summary: Immigrant Inclusion Strategic Plan.
Our county is committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity and inclusivity, with a particular focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere for immigrants. Recognizing the valuable contributions immigrants bring to our community, we have developed comprehensive strategies to ensure their seamless integration and participation in all aspects of county life.
[pdf-embedder url=”https://www.coastsidebuzz.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/SMC_ImmigrantInclusionStrategicPlanExecSummary_FINAL.pdf”]
2024 Elections
This is a San Mateo County Supervisorial District map. CoastsideBuzz has identified 3 Supervisors whose terms end in 2024.
Author: Coastside Buzz
Me
I’ve forwarded this excellent and well written article to Texas Govenor Abbott, hoping he can test the resiliency of this welcoming place.