APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY
___________________________
CITY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
OAKLAND CITY COUNCIL
RESOLUTION NO. ______________ C.M.S.
INTRODUCED BY COUNCILMEMBER ROWENA BROWN
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING JUNE 2026 AS NATIONAL CARIBBEAN
AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH AND HONORING THE RESILIENCE,
CONTRIBUTIONS, AND LEADERSHIP OF CARIBBEAN AMERICANS
IN THE CITY OF OAKLAND
WHEREAS, National Caribbean American Heritage Month is celebrated each June in recognition of the rich history, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of Caribbean Americans and their descendants to the United States and to the City of Oakland; and WHEREAS, in June 2005, the House of Representatives unanimously adopted H. Con. Res. 71, sponsored by then Congresswoman Barbara Lee, in recognition of the rich culture and long history of Caribbean peoples in America; and
WHEREAS, the Caribbean diaspora encompasses people from over 30 nations and territories across the Caribbean basin, including Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, Barbados, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Belize, Guyana, Grenada, St. Lucia, and many more, representing a mosaic of African, Indigenous, European, Indian, and other cultural traditions; and WHEREAS, Caribbean Americans have a long and proud history in the United States, from civil rights leaders, artists, athletes, and public servants who have helped shape the cultural, political, and economic landscape of this nation; and
WHEREAS, Oakland is home to a vibrant and growing Caribbean American community whose members have enriched the city through their entrepreneurship, artistry, civic leadership, and dedication to community well-being; and
WHEREAS, Caribbean Americans in Oakland have made and continue to make meaningful contributions strengthening the social fabric and economic vitality of our city; and WHEREAS, the art and cultures of the Caribbean have profoundly influenced American culture and continue to bring joy, creativity, and pride to Oakland's diverse communities; and WHEREAS, Caribbean Americans have historically faced and continue to navigate systemic barriers, including immigration challenges, racial inequity, and economic disparities, yet have
2 demonstrated extraordinary resilience and determination in building thriving lives and communities; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the City of Oakland honor the enduring legacy, cultural richness, and ongoing contributions of Caribbean Americans during National Caribbean American Heritage Month; now therefore, be it
RESOLVED: That the City of Oakland recognizes June 2026 as National Caribbean American Heritage Month and honors the resilience, contributions, and leadership of Caribbean Americans who enrich the culture, economy, and community of Oakland; and be it
FURTHER RESOLVED: That the City of Oakland reaffirms its commitment to celebrating the diversity of all its residents, supporting equitable opportunities for Caribbean American communities, and standing in solidarity against xenophobia, racism, and discrimination.
IN COUNCIL, OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA,
PASSED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES - BROWN, FIFE, GALLO, HOUSTON, RAMACHANDRAN, UNGER, WANG, AND
PRESIDENT JENKINS
NOES –
ABSENT –
ABSTENTION –
ATTEST:
ASHA REED
City Clerk and Clerk of the Council of the
City of Oakland, California
3470808 / JB