Richmond City Council
September 22, 2026

WHEREAS, first responders, including firefighters, emergency medical personnel, law enforcement officers, and other public safety professionals, routinely experience traumatic events while serving their communities and face unique mental health challenges associated with their profession; and
WHEREAS, the Richmond Fire Department's Behavioral Health Program reflects the City's commitment to supporting the well-being of its workforce and aligns with statewide efforts to strengthen behavioral health resources for California firefighters and first responders; and
Recognizing Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month
September 2026
WHEREAS, Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month is observed each September to raise awareness about suicide prevention, promote mental health education, reduce stigma, and encourage individuals experiencing emotional distress to seek help; and
WHEREAS, suicide remains a significant public health concern, affecting individuals, families, friends, coworkers, and communities across the nation. Every life lost to suicide has a lasting impact, underscoring the importance of compassionate support, early intervention, and access to behavioral health resources; and WHEREAS, promoting mental wellness requires a community-wide commitment to fostering understanding, encouraging open conversations about mental health, expanding access to care, and ensuring that individuals know they are not alone; and WHEREAS, the Richmond Fire Department has demonstrated leadership by establishing a comprehensive Behavioral Health Program and Peer Support Team, providing confidential peer support, crisis response, and wellness resources to firefighters and emergency personnel while fostering a culture that prioritizes mental health alongside physical safety; and
WHEREAS, the City of Richmond encourages all residents to recognize the warning signs of suicide, support those experiencing mental health challenges, utilize available resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and work together to build a compassionate, connected, and resilient community; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, I, Mayor Eduardo
Martinez, do hereby recognize September 2026 as Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month in the City of Richmond and commend the Richmond Fire Department's Peer Support Team for its outstanding commitment to supporting the behavioral health and well-being of first responders. The City encourages all residents to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, promote suicide prevention, and support efforts that foster hope, healing, and resilience throughout our community.
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Mayor Eduardo Martinez
City of Richmond
September 22, 2026
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Councilmember Cesar Zepeda
District 2
September 22, 2026