San Rafael City Council
December 16, 2024

City of San Rafael
Proclamation In Recognition of
THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL’S 150TH ANNIVERSARY
WHEREAS, The City of San Rafael, incorporated in 1874, stands as one of the California’s oldest, celebrated for its rich with history, cultural diversity, and strong sense of community belonging; and WHEREAS, San Rafael’s history dates to its origins as a region stewarded by the Coast Miwok peoples for thousands of years, then transformed by an agricultural settlement and the establishment of the San Rafael Mission in 1817, and which has since evolved into a city that values its history while embracing sustainable growth, innovation, and diversity; and WHEREAS, San Rafael’s rich diversity is integral to its identity, and the City honors the contributions of its multitude of communities, including Latine, Vietnamese, immigrant, and LGBTQ+ individuals, which have shaped the City’s history, economy, and cultural traditions; and WHEREAS, The City’s diverse Latine community has profoundly shaped San Rafael’s character, enriching its cultural identity, history, economy, and traditions, and serving as a cornerstone of its vibrancy; and
WHEREAS, San Rafael’s Vietnamese residents, particularly in the Canal District, play an integral role in the City’s cultural and economic vitality, contributing to its unique character and enhancing the community through their entrepreneurial spirit, traditions, and active participation in civic life; and
WHEREAS The City is committed to promoting equity, inclusion, and justice, ensuring all voices – particularly those of historically marginalized and underrepresented communities – are heard and celebrated in every aspect of civic life; and
WHEREAS, San Rafael’s unwavering commitment to equity and compassion is reflected in the many nonprofit organizations that provide vital services, including those focused on homelessness, support environmental conservation, and champion social justice, and address the needs of all neighborhoods, ensuring a city where everyone can thrive; and WHEREAS, San Rafael has emerged as a leader in environmental sustainability, implementing that expand urban green space, advance climate action, and preserve natural resources, striving to ensure a healthy and equitable future for all residents; and
WHEREAS, The City’s identity is deeply rooted in the spirit of volunteerism and public service, with countless residents dedicating their time to fostering connections, improving the quality of life, and uplifting all corners of the community through local programs, outreach, and stewardship; and
WHEREAS, San Rafael’s thriving arts community is celebrated as a California Arts District, a hub of artistic expression that includes galleries and film festivals enhancing the City’s vibrancy and inclusivity; and
WHEREAS, The Canal neighborhood contains many contributions to public art, including the “Peoples of the Canal” mural project; and
WHEREAS, The Marin County Civic Center, designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, stands as an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of San Rafael’s commitment to creative and forward-looking civic design; and
WHEREAS, As part of its 150th anniversary celebration, the City of San Rafael reflects on the countless contributions of its residents, businesses, and public servants, who have shaped the City into a place of progress and community, and looks forward to the next 150 years; and THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Rafael, do hereby proclaim 2024 the 150th Anniversary of the City of San Rafael, recognizing its rich history, its vibrant present, and its bright future, and express deep appreciation to all who have contributed to the city's legacy, ensuring its continued success for generations to come.
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Kate Colin
Mayor