CITY OF SEBASTOPOL
Proclamation
Proclaiming the Fourth Friday in April as Children's Memorial Flag Day throughout Sonoma County in memory of children who have died by violence.
Whereas, National Child Abuse Prevention Month is an opportunity to share the importance of individuals and communities working together to keep families safe and healthy; and Whereas, Everyone has a role to play in making sure that our community is a great place for children and families to thrive; and
Whereas, All children deserve great childhoods and should be raised in healthy, nurturing homes, free from abuse and neglect. Children who are raised in supportive, stable and nurturing environments are more likely to lead healthy and successful lives; and
Whereas, Prioritizing the well-being of California’s children by implementing policies that strengthen families. When we ensure the healthy development of the next generation, they are more likely to contribute positively to our communities and be productive, responsible members of society; and Whereas, We can’t put a dollar value on the life of a child. But we can play a part in ending the tragedy of child abuse by supporting children and families; and
Whereas, The Children’s Memorial Day was established by the California Assembly in April 1997, which formally declared the fourth Friday in April as a statewide annual observance day: on the fourth Friday in April every year the Children’s Memorial Flag is to be flown statewide in memory of all California young lives lost to violence in the previous year.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED THAT I, Jill McLewis, Mayor of the City of Sebastopol, on behalf of the entire City Council, do hereby proclaim the Fourth Friday in April as Children's Memorial Flag Day throughout Sebastopol in memory of children who have died by violence and I encourage the City to raise the Children’s Memorial Flag on the fourth Friday in the month of April to honor the young lives lost.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and the Great Seal of the City of Sebastopol this 7th day of April 2026.
Jill McLewis
Mayor, City of Sebastopol