May 27, 2025
City Council
DATE: May 27, 2025
TO: Mayor Martinez and Members of the City Council
FROM:
Council Member Jamelia Brown
Subject:
Proclamation Recognizing May 2025 as Asthma
Awareness Month
FINANCIAL IMPACT: None
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
None
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
The City of Richmond has long experienced
disproportionate rates of asthma and respiratory illness due to its industrial history, environmental burdens, and high density of tobacco retailers. May is nationally
recognized as Asthma Awareness Month. A formal
proclamation will bring attention to this public health crisis, acknowledge the contributions of Richmond -based
environmental justice organizations, and affirm the city’s commitment to reducing dependence on fossil fuels while investing in clean energy, h ealth equity, and community resilience.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
PROCLAMATION recognizing May 2025 as Asthma
Awareness Month in the City of Richmond to bring
attention to this public health crisis, acknowledge the contributions of Richmond-based environmental justice
organizations, and affirm the city’s commitment to
reducing dependence on fossil fuels while investing in
clean energy, health equity, and community resilience - Councilmember Jamelia Brown (510-609-5780).
AGENDA
REPORT
May 27, 2025
DISCUSSION:
Richmond’s residents —particularly children, low -income families, and communities of color—experience disproportionately high rates of asthma and respiratory illness compared to neighboring cities. These health disparities are deeply rooted in the city's industrial history, including operations such as the Chevron Refinery, its location along major highways and freight routes, and the oversaturation of tobacco retailers in vulnerable neighborhoods. Limited access to preventive care and environmental health resources further exacerbates these conditions, creating a compounding public health crisis.
Since 1984, the United States has recognized May as Asthma Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding of asthma as a chronic disease, promoting effective management strategies, and advocating for healthier environments. As we honor this month, we also celebrate the strength and resilience of Gray Ribbon Warriors— those who live with asthma daily, yet continue to push through challenges, advocate f or their health, and inspire others through their perseverance.
Organizations including Communities for a Better Environment (CBE), Asian Pacific Environmental Network (APEN), Richmond Our Power Coalition, Urban Tilth, Rich City Rides, West County Toxics Coalition, and the Richmond Shoreline Alliance have led efforts to raise awareness, reduce exposure to harmful pollutants, and advocate for community-driven solutions.
Asthma Awareness Month provides a platform to honor their leadership, educate the public, and advocate for cleaner, healthier environments through a just transition—one that shifts the city toward sustainable infrastructure, green jobs, and pollution reduction without leaving vulnerable communities behind.
Formally recognizing Asthma Awareness Month aligns with Richmond’s goals to advance environmental justice, promote public health, and support frontline communities. This proclamation supports city efforts to:
Raise public awareness around asthma and respiratory health. Promote partnerships with local organizations tackling environmental health. Highlight the need for policies that support a just transition away from polluting industries.
Reaffirm Richmond’s commitment to equity and clean air for all residents.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Proclamation Recognizing May 2025 as Asthma Awareness Month