Proclamation
Whereas, the 2024 theme of Women’s History Month is “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion,” in recognition of women leaders working to eliminate bias and discrimination to ensure equal treatment and empower full participation from all individuals, since unique perspectives allow our organizations, institutions, and societies to thrive; and
Whereas, we are inspired by the leadership and perseverance of women who have made significant contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), including Lilly Ledbetter, namesake of the 2009 Fair Pay Act that played a crucial role in narrowing the gender pay gap; Alice Wong, founder of the Disability Visibility Project which shares and amplifies voices from the disability community; and Stephanie Wiggins , CEO of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority which published an unprecedented report on “Understanding How Women Travel” and a “Gender Action Plan” to improve travel experience for women and all public transit riders; and
Whereas, although women were restricted from serving in combat until 2015, today women trailblazers serve at the highest levels of the military, including Admiral Linda Fagan who, on June 1, 2022, became the 27th Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, and the first woman to lead any branch of the United States A rmed Forces. Locally, Coast Guard Base Alameda is led by Commanding Officer, Captain Jackie Leverich and Executive Officer, Commander Elisa Fawcett.
Whereas, as we celebrate the achievements of visionary women throughout history, we also recognize ongoing issues and policies that disproportionately impact and harm women, including restrictions on reproductive rights and the gender pay gap; and
Whereas, we applaud organizations like Girls Inc. of the Island City that empower girls to address these issues by inspiring and motivating them to pursue education, leadership roles, and careers in government, science, sports, entrepreneurship, education, and art; and
Whereas, in Alameda, numerous women have provided role models for women and girls , including the late Honora Murphy whose civic activism led to children with disabilities being able to attend AUSD schools with their peers, the construction of Alameda’s current Main Library, and more, and Jennifer Radakovich (ruh -dah-ko-vich), Rhythmix Cultural Works Executive Director and Shamar (Shuh-mar) Edwards, Senior Director of AUSD’s Office of Equity whose work promotes public understanding of cultural diversity that enhances the fabric of Alameda.
Now, therefore, be it resolved, that I, Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft, Mayor of the City of Alameda, hereby proclaim March 2024 as
Women’s History Month
in the City of Alameda to spotlight women’s achievements nationally and locally and support women’s ongoing march to achieve equal rights, recognition, and respect.
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor