After President Donald Trump said there would be cuts to DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) programs, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors has indicated that, despite new federal priorities, it will maintain protections for vulnerable and marginalized groups.
“We know there is a growing effort to dehumanize, degrade and destroy our vulnerable communities and it is up to us, as county leaders, to protect our most vulnerable communities during this time of fear and uncertainty,” said District 2 Supervisor Noelia Corzo.
In co-sponsoring the resolution, the official noted that “here in San Mateo County, we can make the decision not to go back decades in our social progress.”
The Board reaffirmed several steps it has taken in the past to ensure that populations such as immigrants, people of color, LGBTQIA+, and people with disabilities feel welcome and safe in San Mateo County.
Among the measures are a resolution to promote and enhance the County’s racial equity efforts, including the creation of an Office of Racial and Social Equity and an equity director position; and an ordinance to advance racial and social equity through specific goals, including integrating equity as a core value for strategic and budgetary decisions.
Additionally, establish a deportation defense fund and rapid response hotline; host “Know Your Rights” trainings and contribute to the Immigrant Family Recovery Fund; and establish the County’s LGBTQIA+ Commission and support the San Mateo County Pride Center.
Furthermore, establish a dedicated Women and Children Officer position and adopt a comprehensive action plan for women and children to address inequalities, expand services and improve opportunities for economic mobility; and promote inclusive and accessible activities and resources for persons with disabilities, including the annual Inclusion Festival.
These actions led to San Mateo County being recognized nationally in January 2024 as a “certified welcoming county,” a first for any county in the country.
Supervisors also hope the support will help ease ongoing anxiety that may prevent some people from seeking services, education and employment.
District 3 Supervisor Ray Mueller, the resolution's other co-sponsor, said some students are avoiding school and adults are skipping work for fear of immigration officials.
“It’s just horrible to watch,” she said before speaking directly to the transgender youth: “Right now, those kids are loved and valued and this county will stand by them.”
Thursday's vote also gave new Supervisors Jackie Speier of District 1 and Lisa Gauthier of District 4 the opportunity to voice their support for the Board's previous commitments.
Gauthier successfully suggested adding indigenous peoples to the list of populations specifically named in the resolution.
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