May 27, 2025
Mayor's Office
DATE: May 27, 2025
TO: Members of the City Council
FROM:
Mayor Eduardo Martinez and Councilmember Jamelia
Brown
Subject:
Proclamation Recognizing May 2025 as Mental Health
Awareness Month
FINANCIAL IMPACT: None
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
None
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
Mental health challenges are a growing concern in
communities across the nation, including Richmond,
where many residents face high rates of trauma, stress, housing insecurity, and substance use. Despite the
increased need, stigma and limited access to culturally responsive mental health care continue to be a barrier to seeking support. This proclamation aims to raise
awareness, reduce stigma, and affirm the City of
Richmond’s commitment to supporting the mental well-
being of all its residents by recognizing May 2025
as Mental Health Awareness Month.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: PROCLAMATION recognizing May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month in the City of Richmond - Mayor
Eduardo Martinez (510-620-6503) and Councilmember
Jamelia Brown (510-620-6861).
DISCUSSION:
Since 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in the United States to raise awareness about mental health, promote access to care, and eliminate stigma surrounding mental health challenges. Many residents in the City of Richmond face AGENDA
REPORT
May 27, 2025
elevated rates of trauma, substance use, housing instability, and poverty, all of which intersect with mental health outcomes. This proclamation acknowledges these realities while also highlighting the strength and resilience of Richmond residents and the importance of community-based support.
Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity for the City to reaffirm its dedication to emotional wellness, equity, and trauma-informed approaches to community care.
This proclamation encourages public dialogue, increases visibility for local service providers, and uplifts the ongoing work of Richmond’s mental health advocates.
This action aligns with the Richmond City Council’s adopted goals and priorities, particularly:
Improve the quality of life, community health, and social determinants of health by raising awareness and reducing barriers to mental health support.
Enhance public safety by promoting proactive, compassionate responses to mental health crises and prioritizing prevention and healing.
Through this proclamation, Richmond joins communities nationwide in honoring Mental Health Awareness Month and promoting policies that value care, dignity, and inclusion.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Proclamation Recognizing May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month in the City of Richmond