CITY OF SEBASTOPOL
Proclamation
Recognizing October 2026 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month Whereas, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States, apart from skin cancers, and is the second leading cause of cancer death among women; and Whereas, in 2026 an estimated 321,910 women in the United States will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, and an estimated 42,140 women will die from the disease; and Whereas, breast cancer also affects men, with an estimated 2,670 new diagnoses and 530 deaths among men expected this year; and
Whereas, the disease touches nearly every family in some way, including our own residents, neighbors, coworkers, and friends here in Sebastopol and throughout Sonoma County; and Whereas, every story is unique and every journey matters, and each person diagnosed with breast cancer, along with their family and loved ones, deserves compassionate, personalized care and support at every step; and
Whereas, about two-thirds of breast cancers are found at a localized stage, when treatment works best, which shows how much regular screening and early detection save lives; and Whereas, significant disparities persist, with Black women experiencing the highest breast cancer death rate of any group, underscoring the need for equitable access to screening, diagnosis, and care; and
Whereas, local healthcare providers, survivors, caregivers, advocates, and community organizations work every day to educate, support patients and families, and advance research toward a cure;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT I, Jill McLewis, Mayor of the City of Sebastopol, on behalf of the entire City Council, do hereby proclaim October 2026 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the City of Sebastopol, and encourage all residents to learn the risk factors and warning signs, talk with their healthcare providers about screening, and support those living with breast cancer, the survivors among us, and the families who have lost loved ones.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and the Great Seal of the City of Sebastopol this day, October 6th, 2026
Jill McLewis
DRAFT
Mayor, City of Sebastopol