March 4, 2025
City Council
DATE: March 4, 2025
TO: Mayor Martinez and Members of the City Council
FROM:
Councilmember Soheila Bana
Subject:
Request for Additional Funding for Nowruz Spring Equinox Celebration
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The proposed $3,000 appropriation expenditure is currently included within the approved fiscal year 2024 - 2025 budget for Festivals /Community Events Budget
(account string- 01251151 400322)
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
June 18, 2025
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
The Nowruz Spring Equinox Celebration is a vital cultural event promoting diversity, inclusion, and cross -cultural understanding, particularly for Western and Central Asian immigrant communities in Richmond. While the City has
already allocated $ 3,000 for this event from its cultural celebrations budget, an additional $3,000 is needed to
cover essential costs, including portable restrooms, tables, chairs, and tents.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
APPROVE an additional $3,000 to be funded from the
Festivals/Community Events Budget to support the
Nowruz Spring Equinox Celebration and ensure a
successful and inclusive event - Councilmember Soheila
Bana (510-672-3490).
AGENDA
REPORT
March 4, 2025
DISCUSSION:
Nowruz, marking the Persian New Year and the Spring Equinox, is a centuries -old tradition celebrated by millions across Western and Central Asia, including Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kurdish communities worldwide.
This event fosters cultural understanding among Richmon d residents, counters misinformation and division, and demonstrates solidarity with immigrant communities, especially those facing increased discrimination and exclusion in recent years.
This year's celebration will feature:
Traditional and contemporary dancers
Live music from Western and Central Asia
A disc jockey (DJ)
A Haft-Seen table, a key Nowruz tradition symbolizing renewal and prosperity Food vendors offering traditional cuisine
Calligraphy demonstrations
Face painting for children
Richmond businesses are contributing generously to support this event:
Sims Metal - $2500
Chevron Richmond Refinery – $2,500
Levin-Richmond Terminal Corporation – $2,500
Phillips 66 – Rodeo Renewable Energy – $2,000
Prologis – $2,500
Novin Development – $2,500
Richmond Firefighters Local 188 - $500
Despite this generous sponsorship, additional funds are needed to cover logistical costs.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Event flyer