Resolution No. 2025-XXX
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SANTA ANA SUPPORTING THE MIDDLE EASTERN AND
NORTH AFRICAN INCLUSION ACT (ASSEMBLY BILL 91)
WHEREAS, the City of Santa Ana is a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming community that values the cultural, economic, and social contributions of all its residents, regardless of racial, ethnic, or cultural background; and
WHEREAS, the City of Santa Ana is home to a growing Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) community composed of individuals of different nationalities, ancestries, and origins from the MENA region, who contribute significantly to the city’s economy, culture, and civic life; and
WHEREAS, data from the U.S. Census and other agencies has historically undercounted the MENA community due to the lack of a distinct demographic category, leading to inaccurate representation and barriers in accessing health, educational, and economic resources; and
WHEREAS, represe ntational data is essential for ensuring that MENA communities have a voice in policymaking, civic engagement, equitable resource allocation, and advocacy efforts; and
WHEREAS, the State of California is home to the largest MENA population in the United States, yet state and local agencies have not disaggregated demographic data to specifically account for MENA individuals, limiting the community’s access to state - supported programs and services; and
WHEREAS, Assembly Bill 91 (AB 91) by Assembly Member John Harabedian , seeks to address this inequity by requiring state and local agencies that collect demographic data to include separate categories and tabulations for major MENA groups and to publish this data in demographic reports on or after January 1, 2027; and
WHEREAS, Assembly Bill 91 will help ensure that the MENA community is accurately represented and will promote equitable access to public resources and opportunities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Santa Ana hereby formally supports Assembly Bill 91, the Middle Eastern and North African Inclusion Act, and recognizes the importance of accurate representation and equitable treatment of the MENA community in California.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Sa nta Ana formally recognizes the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) community as a distinct racial and ethnic group
Resolution No. 2025-XXX
with unique cultural, economic, and social contributions to the City of Santa Ana and the State of California.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED this Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption by the City Council, and the City Clerk shall attest to and certify the vote adopting this Resolution.
ADOPTED this _____ day of ____________, 2025.
________________________________
Valerie Amezcua
Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Sonia R. Carvalho, City Attorney
By:
AYES: Councilmembers
NOES: Councilmembers
ABSTAIN: Councilmembers
NOT PRESENT: Councilmembers _
CERTIFICATION OF ATTESTATION AND ORIGINALITY
I, Jennifer L. Hall, City Clerk, do hereby attest to and certify the attached Resolution No. 2025-XXX to be the original resolution adopted by the City Council of the City of Santa Ana on _______________.
Date: ______________________ ________________________________ City Clerk
City of Santa Ana