WHEREAS, the City of Fresno recognizes that young people are essential leaders, innovators, and community members whose voices and perspectives help shape the future of our city; and
WHEREAS, Youth Leadership Institute, a statewide organization serving seven regions with offices in Fresno and programming in Madera, leads efforts to build communities where young people and adult allies create positive change for social justice and racial equity—elevating youth leadership at every stage; and
WHEREAS, YLI Fresno youth participated in a youth-led research and community engagement process to identify the opportunities and challenges affecting their health, education, economic mobility, transportation access, and quality of life; and
WHEREAS, this research informed the development of the Youth Climate and Economic Bill of Rights, a youth-created framework that outlines priorities related to public health, workforce development, environmental sustainability, education, transportation, and community well-being; and
WHEREAS, the Youth Climate and Economic Bill of Rights calls for equitable access to healthcare services, mental health resources, safe community spaces, clean water, environmental protections, green spaces, and sustainable infrastructure that support healthy communities; and
WHEREAS, the Youth Climate and Economic Bill of Rights also promotes access to financial literacy education, workforce development, paid internships, career readiness programs, entrepreneurship support, green job pathways, reliable transportation, and living-wage employment opportunities for all young people; and
WHEREAS, the City of Fresno recognizes the importance of empowering youth to participate in civic engagement and decision-making affecting their schools, neighborhoods, and future opportunities; and
WHEREAS, the Fresno City Council commends local youth leaders, community organizations, educators, advocates, and partners, including Youth Leadership Institute youth, who contributed to the development of the Youth Climate and Economic Bill of Rights and continue working to advance positive change throughout Fresno.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Fresno City Council hereby recognizes and supports the principles outlined in the Youth Climate and Economic Bill of Rights and encourages continued collaboration among city leaders, schools, community organizations, businesses, and youth advocates to advance opportunities and improve outcomes for Fresno’s young people.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we, the Fresno City Council and Mayor Jerry P. Dyer, do hereby proclaim this 25
th day of June 2026 as:
“Youth Climate and Economic Bill of Rights Day”