Millbrae was recently named runner up for the National League of Cities’ 2021 Cultural Diversity Awards due to its ongoing work with a grassroots campaign to promote racial equity and social justice within the city.
In the wake of George Floyd’s death while in Minneapolis police custody, citizens across the nation began organizing and demanding policy changes and equality for all, including community members who formed the Millbrae Anti-Racist Coalition (ARC). The city joined forces with Millbrae ARC to organize a 200-plus person march last summer to highlight racial injustices and demand change. Since then, ARC has grown to over 100 active members and supporters in Millbrae who have worked with the city to hold town hall meetings and outreach campaigns.
“We are honored to be recognized by the National League of Cities for our social justice efforts and want to thank our ARC members for all of the outstanding work they have put forth to help our community,” Millbrae Mayor Ann Schneider said. “We are committed to continuing this essential effort and to working in partnership with the voices of the local community to listen, educate, and inform.”
Joy Pasamonte Henry, one of the organizers of Millbrae ARC, said having conversations at the local level is key to moving toward a society free of discrimination.
“We are proud of the steps we’ve taken over the past year and are grateful to be recognized for our efforts,” Henry said. “We look forward to continuing this important work with the city for years to come.”
Millbrae was chosen from over 50 communities that submitted applications for the 2021 Diversity Awards. Submissions were grouped by size and evaluated for creativity, community impact and program scope. Awardees were recognized at NLC’s virtual Congressional City Conference.
“NLC is proud to celebrate the City of Millbrae and their commitment to building a welcoming and inclusive community,” said NLC President Kathy Maness, Councilmember from Lexington, SC. “The Cultural Diversity Awards are a key part of NLC’s work to recognize innovative programs by local leaders.”
Learn more about NLC Cultural Diversity Award winners by visiting nlc.org.
Photo: Scopio
