Draft 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project
Community Feedback Report
January 8, 2026
Prepared by:
Evelyn Orantes Consulting
www.eorantesconsulting.com
[email protected]
Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 1 Table of Contents
1. Executive Summary page 2
2. Background and Context page 7
3. Community Outreach Efforts page 11
4. Findings and Insights page 13
5. Summary of All Community Feedback page 25
6. Recommendations and Next Steps page 27
7. Recommendations for Preserving and Sharing page 29
Decoto’s History Beyond Mural
8. Appendices
Due to the length of the appendices, the following documents referenced in this report can be accessed on the City of Union City website:
www.unioncity.org/967/BART-Mural-Project.
To request a paper copy of these documents, please call (510) 675-5277 or email [email protected]
• Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), Arts Program Guidelines • Community Emails and Letters
• Community Outreach and Survey Distribution List
• July 15, 2025, Arts and Culture Commission Meeting Public Comments Summary
• August 12, 2025, Union City Council Meeting Public Comments Summary • September 11, 2025, BART Mural Project Community Forum Notes Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 2 Executive Summary
The City of Union City BART Mural Project is a
community-informed public art initiative
designed to create a meaningful installation on
nine BART pillars in the surrounding Decoto
neighborhood and Kennedy Park, to the BART
Union Station. On August 12, 2025, the Union
City Council adopted the BART Mural Project
Workplan with a clear directive that the mural
design reflects the history of Decoto. This was
informed in large part by strong community
advocacy. Guided by the City’s Strategic Plan
and supported by the Arts and Culture
Commission, the project aims to honor the
identity, history, legacy, and aspirations of the
Decoto neighborhood and Union City.
To inform the development of the project’s
theme and vision, Union City staff, in
collaboration with Evelyn Orantes Consulting,
facilitated a robust outreach process that included a citywide survey, a Community Forum, public comments at City Council and Arts and Culture Commission meetings, and ongoing conversations with residents.
Community Voices: Cross-Cutting Themes
The following five themes were consistently raised by community members across the community outreach and engagement efforts led by Union City staff, from July 1, 2025, through September 15, 2025. The outreach strategies included:
● A citywide survey garnered 406 responses.
● A Community Forum that brought together 55 community members. ● City Council and Arts and Culture Commission meetings that provided opportunities for public comments; and
● Outreach at twenty-nine (29) community events and information shared with over 9,000 individuals.
In addition, City staff obtained ongoing input from community members throughout the process. The following summary reflects the most common themes that emerged consistently across the many community conversations, outreach, and engagement strategies. Each theme is supported by direct quotes from the community.
Presentation at the BART Mural Project Community
Forum, September 11, 2025, at the Kennedy Youth
Center.
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 3 Emerging Themes: The following are the five most prevalent, cross-cutting themes that were raised by community members and are supported by direct quotes.
1. Honor and Visibility for Decoto’s Legacy
Across all engagement activities, residents emphasized that Decoto’s story, including its Chicano roots, multigenerational families, and history of activism, must be central to the mural’s narrative.
“This mural should be ALL about the history, residents, and culture of DECOTO.” “Union City cannot have a future if it doesn’t remember its past.” “There is no Union City without Decoto.”
Residents emphasized a long-standing desire to see their neighborhood represented, remembered, and respected through public art.
2. Agricultural and Labor Heritage
The gladiolus fields, the bracero era, and the experiences of migrant farmworkers were the most frequently referenced images across the survey and forum responses. “Honor the gladiolus fields and the farm laborers who built this community.” “My father worked the gladiolus fields at 16 to support our whole family.” “Farm workers, gladiolus, struggle, resilience — that’s our story.” These references reflect not only historical and personal memories but also emotional ties to family, migration, and identity.
3. Cultural Pride, Diversity, and Unity
Residents described Union City as a place defined by multicultural coexistence and pride. Many expressed a desire for the mural to reflect Latino, Filipino, Indigenous, and immigrant contributions, while still embracing unity across cultures. “Union City was born of many cultures and languages.”
“Let our Latino, Filipino, and Indigenous communities be seen.” “Diversity is our strength.”
Several comments also called for visual cues that mirror cultural aesthetics—color, pattern, movement, and symbolism.
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 4
4. Youth and Future Generations
Community members expressed a desire for the mural to connect the past and present and to inspire the next generation.
“Show our youth — they are the future of this city.”
“Children growing up here should see themselves in it.” The comments raised centered on the importance of the mural to reflect a strong multigenerational focus: honoring ancestors while uplifting the future.
5. Community Resilience, Belonging, and Justice
Themes of activism, unity, and longstanding struggles appeared frequently in the survey and public comments.
“We belong here. The mural should reflect our stories and our resilience.” “Show the struggles and victories that shaped Decoto.”
“Let the mural speak to justice, community, and pride.” These values are often expressed symbolically rather than literally, presenting significant opportunities for creative interpretation.
Alignment with BART Arts Program Guidelines
While residents shared the rich historical details of the Decoto neighborhood, longtime residents, community leaders, and Union City, the BART Arts Program guidelines advise against literal or interpretive depictions of historical events, individuals, or portraits. This ensures long-term relevance, inclusivity, and stewardship of public art on transit infrastructure.
While the mural design will need to adhere to BART Arts Program guidelines, the community’s insights strongly lend themselves to symbolic and abstract representation such as:
● botanical forms (gladiolus, Indigenous plants)
● woven or textile-inspired patterns
● color palettes that evoke culture and heritage
● visual rhythms reflecting movement, migration, or unity ● abstract forms symbolizing resilience, labor, or belonging Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 5 Recommendations and Next Steps
1. Use the Community’s Priorities to Shape Project Vision and Theme The proposed themes for the mural are reflective of the comments shared by residents throughout the community engagement outreach and engagement efforts. Therefore, the final project theme vision and theme should center on:
● Decoto’s cultural heritage
● Agricultural and labor history
● Diversity and multicultural pride
● Youth and future generations
● Community resilience and belonging
2. Support Artists With Clear Context and Engagement
The final selected theme for the mural will be instrumental in shaping and informing the competitive process, request for qualifications (RFQ), for the artist selection. The RFQ will include the following:
● The identified theme and vision for the BART mural design ● The Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report ● The BART Arts Program guidelines.
3. Preserve Decoto’s Story Through Additional Platforms Residents repeatedly voiced concern that the Decoto community’s history is not sufficiently archived, preserved, shared, or easily accessible. While the BART mural can be instrumental in honoring Decoto, it cannot serve as the sole vehicle or platform for preserving and capturing the community’s history, identity, and legacy. Therefore, it is recommended that other opportunities and funding be explored and identified to share, acknowledge, and honor the Decoto community’s rich history, beyond the BART Mural Project, such as:
● Interpretive markers, signage in key locations, and/or a museum exhibit. ● Identifying other public spaces, walls, and/or utility boxes that can include some of the proposed themes.
● Explore opportunities and strategies to capture and archive communitysubmitted stories and photographs Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 6 Conclusion
The Union City BART Mural Project represents a powerful and meaningful opportunity to honor the identity of Decoto and Union City through thoughtfully designed, community-informed public art. Residents have spoken with clarity, passion, and unity about what this project means to them, their families, and future generations. The development of mural themes and vision will be grounded in community voice and draw from collective insights while following the BART Arts Program guidelines. This will ensure the final mural design and artwork will be deeply culturally resonant, symbolically rich, and a lasting reflection of the community’s spirit for decades to come.
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 7 Union City BART Mural Project
Background and Context
Background
The City of Union City adopted a five-year Strategic Plan in 2019. On September 26, 2023, the City Council adopted the Strategic Plan FY 2019–2020 through FY 2024– 2025 Final Update, which provided an opportunity for the Council to review progress and establish priorities for the remaining two years. This update also introduced new strategies to advance existing goals.
The strategy to place murals on the BART pillars in Kennedy Park was first incorporated into the Strategic Plan in August 2021 (as noted below) and reaffirmed in September 2023. Strategic Plan Alignment is as follows:
Goal E: Communication and Outreach
Build connections with community partners, residents, and employees.
Strategy: Collaborate with the Arts and Culture Commission and Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) to place murals on the Kennedy Park BART pillars.
The BART Mural Project is funded through the Public Art In-Lieu Fee – Fund 268, which currently has a balance of approximately $863,000 of unencumbered funds. This fund is replenished when a developer pays an in-lieu fee instead of providing public art. If a developer provides art as part of their project, there is no payment of the fee. These funds cover all publicly installed art, such as the art installation at the Sports Center entrance and the utility box mural project.
The Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan already identifies $200,000 for the BART Mural Project. However, the actual estimated cost will not be known until the final artist(s) is/are selected and the final scope of the work is understood. Final project design, number of murals to be installed, artist selection, and design concept will determine actual costs.
City staff began collaborating with the Arts and Culture Commission on the BART Mural Project (“Project”) that same year. However, progress was initially slowed by a lack of quorum at several Commission meetings and changes in Commissioner appointments that delayed the formation of a dedicated ad hoc committee.
The BART Mural Project advanced in 2024, when the Arts and Culture Commission successfully established an ad hoc committee to prioritize the BART Mural Project and to begin developing a Union City Public Art Map. Around this time, City staff received initial guidance from BART regarding the procedures for proposing and implementing mural projects. Due to the scale and complexity of the effort, and BART’s strict Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 8 guidelines for art installations, BART strongly recommended that the City engage an art consultant to guide the process, liaise between agencies, and oversee project planning and implementation.
In April 2025, the City entered into an agreement with Evelyn Orantes (EO) Consulting, an advisor with extensive experience in arts administration, public art, and cultural programming. As a public art consultant, curator, and cultural strategist, EO Consulting specializes in developing and managing large-scale art projects that emphasize creative placemaking and community-driven storytelling. Most recently, EO Consulting led BART’s Fruitvale Station multi-phase mural project, which features ten pillars extending from the station into the Fruitvale Business District.
In May 2025, an ad hoc committee composed of two commissioners, City staff, and the consultant were formed to help guide the project. In November 2025, in response to community feedback and to provide greater opportunity for input, the ad hoc committee was replaced by Community Forums. The purpose of the Community Forums is to engage more intentionally with a broader range of voices and perspectives at key stages of the mural development process, particularly residents of the surrounding Decoto community and Kennedy Park.
The goal is to complete the mural installation by February 2027. Given the scope of the BART mural installation, a work plan was created to guide the planning process.
The work plan consists of five phases, which consist of the following:
● Phase I: Establishment of Regular BART Mural Project Ad Hoc Committee Meetings and Project Theme Development, May – December 2025. Focus on establishing regular BART Mural Project ad-hoc committee meetings, project workplan and deliverables, public outreach and community engagement activities, and research.
● Phase II: Competitive Bid Process Development and Artist Selection, September 2025 – June 2026. Focus on beginning engagement with BART’s Art Program on approval of theme and scope of Project, identifying and contracting the artist(s) for the project through a transparent, inclusive, competitive bid plan and process. ● Phase III: Mural Design and Planning, June – September 2026. Focus on finalizing mural designs and budget, aligning City recommendations and BART guidelines, and laying the groundwork for a successful production phase. ● Phase IV: Mural Fabrication and Production, September 2026 – February 2027.
Focus on site prep, mural execution, and coordination with appropriate partner Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 9 agencies to ensure all essential elements are considered (permitting, vendors, mural installation activities, etc.).
● Phase V: Mural Unveiling Event and Legacy Planning, January – March 2027.
Focus on planning an unveiling event and programming and developing a maintenance plan for the long-term care of the BART mural installation.
Throughout the Project, the BART Arts Program staff, Arts and Culture Commission, and City Council will provide guidance and approval on key elements of the BART mural design and installation. Specifically, the City Council will be briefed and asked for their confirmation and approval of the theme, approval of the selected artist(s), and final approval of the proposed mural design.
In Phase 1 of the BART mural project, the focus was on community outreach and engagement. A key element of these engagement efforts was the development and dissemination of a citywide survey that was available in multiple languages online and in paper form from July 1 through September 15, 2025. The survey was distributed electronically and in hard copy to over 9,000 residents through community events, community centers, the City website, email, and on social media. Along with the survey, public feedback and comments were gathered at the July 15, 2025, Arts and Culture Commission and the August 12, 2025, City Council meetings, and during the community forum hosted on September 11, 2025. These events were instrumental in capturing the community’s input and will inform the project’s vision and theme. In addition, at the August 12 meeting, the City Council accepted the BART Mural Project Workplan with the mural design depicting the history of Decoto.
The Union City BART Mural Project is a collaborative initiative between Union City’s City Council, staff, Arts and Culture Commission, BART, residents, and community stakeholders. From its inception, the central goal is to create a mural design that reflects the unique identity, history, legacy, and spirit of the Decoto community and Union City. 2025 Activities and Milestones
Date Milestone
April, 2025 Evelyn Orantes Consulting contracted
July 1, 2025 BART Mural Project Survey Launch
July 15, 2025 Arts and Culture Commission Meeting
August 12, 2025 City Council Meeting
August 18, 2025 BART Collaboration Kick-Off Meeting
August 22, 2025 BART Arts Program Guidelines Released
September 11, 2025 Community Forum
September 15, 2025 Survey Closes
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 10 Methodology
The outreach and engagement strategies for the BART Mural Project consisted of a multiprong approach to ensure a wide range of voices were heard. Community input was gathered through surveys, a community forum, public meetings, community events, and direct conversations with residents. The analysis and summary of the survey data was conducted by Union City staff and consultant, Evelyn Orantes (EO) Consulting. City staff tallied the results from the multiple-choice questions, while EO Consulting reviewed and organized the written comments from the open-ended questions into key themes.
The themes that emerged represented the priorities voiced consistently throughout the community, underscoring what matters most to Union City residents. Insights from all engagement activities were then brought together to identify shared community values, priorities, and stories that will guide the mural’s theme and vision.
BART Mural Project Community Forum, September 11, 2025, at Kennedy Youth Center. Community members attended one of six breakout group discussions to share their ideas, vision for the Bart murals.
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 11 Community Outreach Efforts
Outreach Strategy
Community engagement is a foundational component of public art practice, especially during theme development. For the Union City BART Mural Project, multiple outreach and engagement methods included the following: District Dialogues, Arts and Culture Commission and City Council meetings, a community forum, social media, City website, and in community centers, and events throughout the city. These strategies were instrumental in engaging a diverse and broad cross-section of Union City residents to elicit their input, ideas, and vision for the project.
The goal of this engagement process was to ensure that the mural reflects the voices of residents and the history and values of the Decoto community and Union City. This process was designed to be thoughtful and transparent, as well as honoring both past and present perspectives.
How Community Input Will Be Used
1. Community input will guide theme development — not prescribe final imagery.
The engagement process is designed to elevate meaningful themes, values, stories, and concerns from the public. These insights will be synthesized into a thematic framework that will inform the artist(s)’ creative direction.
2. The artist(s) will interpret the theme — not reproduce individual requests.
The selected artist(s) will develop a concept that draws inspiration from the approved theme and community context. This approach preserves artistic authenticity while grounding the work in community voice and shared values.
3. All voices are considered — no single stakeholder directs the outcome.
The final design for the mural will require balancing and honoring multiple perspectives, including:
● Input from residents, especially those from the Decoto neighborhood. ● Feedback, input, and final approval from the Arts and Culture Commission, BART, and City Council.
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 12 Community Outreach Methods
Overall Goal: Invite community and stakeholder input on the mural’s vision and theme to ensure inclusive, authentic representation.
Channels and Tactics
1. City Website
A dedicated page for updates and information related to the project, including, but not limited to:
● Project overview
● Ways to get involved (form, email, meeting attendance, events, etc.) ● Link to submit input
● Dates/times of public listening sessions
● Dedicated project email account
2. Social Media Campaign
● Platforms: Instagram, Facebook, videos, etc.
3. Print Materials
4. Public Meetings
● Arts and Culture Commission Meetings
● City Council Meeting
● Community Forums
5. Survey
The BART Arts Program operates under content parameters that ensure all artwork on BART property remains inclusive, sustainable, and aligned with its role as a regional transit provider. The community survey was an important effort to demonstrate to our partner, BART, that the City understands and respects this role while engaging Union City residents in an inclusive and transparent way.
6. Community Forum
Created space for meaningful dialogue with Decoto residents and other local stakeholders
The survey provided input from residents across Union City, while the community forum hosted on September 11, 2025, offered an opportunity to listen more deeply to the neighborhood residents who will live with the mural and experience its impact every day. Additional community forums will be hosted throughout the life of the project.
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 13 Findings and Insights
Survey Findings
A community survey was launched on July 1 and remained open through September 15, 2025. The survey was distributed electronically and in hard copy to over 9,000 Union City residents through summer events, City’s website, email, social media, and in community centers, to outreach and engage a diverse, cross-sector of residents. The surveys were available in multiple languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, and Punjabi.
A total of 406 completed surveys were submitted both online and in paper form.
Survey Question 2: Which of the following themes do you feel best represents Union City?
A total of 1,067 responses. Community members were asked to choose up to three responses online. However, on the paper form, community members frequently chose more than three responses.
Survey Responses Total: 1,067 %
Local History and Heritage 322 30%
Cultural Traditions 199 19%
Diversity and Inclusion 171 16%
Youth and Future Generations 100 9%
Nature and Environment 93 9%
Community Resilience 80 7%
Innovation and Growth 53 5%
Transportation and Movement 32 3%
Gladiolus / Agriculture / Dairy Cows / Old Harbor / Drive In 9 1% Car Culture 8 1%
Survey Question 3: Should the mural focus on Union City as a whole or specifically on the Station District?
A total of 400 responses. Community members were asked to choose one response online. However, on the paper form, community members frequently chose more than three responses.
Survey Responses Total: 400 %
The neighborhoods surrounding Kennedy Park and the
BART station
137 34%
A blend of both 118 30%
Union City as a whole 100 25%
The Decoto neighborhoods surrounding Kennedy Park
and the BART station
41 10%
I'm not sure 4 1%
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 14 Survey Question 4: What’s one idea or story you think this mural should express about Union City?
Community members had an opportunity to write in their responses. BART Mural Project completed survey responses can be accessed on the City of Union City website:
www.unioncity.org/967/BART-Mural-Project
Survey Question 5: Do you live or work in Union City?
A total of 390 responses.
Survey Responses Total: 390 %
Yes - I live here 218 56%
Both 71 18%
I lived here in the past 56 14%
Yes - I work here 25 6%
No 20 5%
Note: Percentages were rounded to the nearest whole number.
Survey Question 6: Thank you for completing the BART Mural project Survey! Optional: We invite you to provide any additional ideas or feedback on the BART Mural Project.
Community members had an opportunity to provide additional written ideas and/or feedback. BART Mural Project Completed Survey Responses can be accessed on the City of Union City website: www.unioncity.org/967/BART-Mural-Project.
Survey Question 7: How did you hear of this survey?
A total of 321 responses.
Survey Response: Total: 321 %
Facebook / Social Media / Online 109 34%
Event in the City 56 17%
E-mail / Text 40 12%
Family / Friend 39 12%
City Staff / Webpage / Center / Email 38 12%
Community Event / District Dialogue 18 6%
Council / Commission 17 5%
Tri City Voice / Newspaper 4 1%
Note: Percentages were rounded to the nearest whole number.
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 15 Analysis of Category Differences Between Survey Question 2 and Open-Ended Questions
The themes listed in question 2 of the survey were intentionally broad, high-level categories designed to help respondents quickly identify which overarching ideas they felt best represent Union City (e.g., Diversity and Inclusion, Local History and Heritage, Nature and Environment, etc.). These predefined options are commonly used in earlystage public art surveys to gather a general sense of community priorities.
However, when analyzing the open-ended responses to survey questions (questions 4 and 6), in which community members were invited to write in their responses, a more nuanced set of themes emerged. In these questions, residents were free to describe specific memories, cultural references, histories, and values in their own words; the richness of the data required a more detailed categorization system.
To accurately reflect the depth and specificity of community input, a different set of thematic categories was refined to better capture the full spectrum of stories and priorities expressed.
Most participants’ responses touched on more than one idea, often spanning multiple themes. To accurately capture this complexity, each open-ended comment was coded into all applicable categories. The following thematic categories were used to organize and tally the responses:
Category Survey Question 4
Respondents: 302
Responses: 591
Survey Question 6
Respondents: 151
Responses: 239
History and Heritage 128 37
Community Values and
Everyday Life
94 48
Diversity and Unity 88 26
Agriculture and Gladiolus 76 18
Chicano / Latino Heritage 56 18
Local Landmarks and Heroes 49 23
Car Culture and Lowriders 30 11
Environmental and Future Vision 27 4
Other / General 18 51
Indigenous Roots 16 2
Social Justice and Activism 9 1
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 16 Survey Question 4: What’s one idea or story you think this mural should express about Union City? (Limit to 1–2 sentences)
Summary Analysis of Community Response to Question 4
Across hundreds of comments, participants expressed deep pride in Decoto’s history and the origins of Union City. Many emphasized the importance of remembering the early agricultural days. The gladiolus fields and farm workers that once defined the local landscape are of particular importance. The flower itself emerged as a powerful emblem of growth, resilience, and beauty rooted in working-class pride.
Respondents also spoke passionately about Chicano and Latino heritage, describing Decoto as a cultural heart of Union City where identity, activism, and creativity have flourished for generations. The lowrider scene, car clubs, and family gatherings at Kennedy Park were frequently mentioned as symbols of local pride and cultural unity.
At the same time, the community emphasized diversity and inclusion as defining strengths. Many want the mural to show how residents from every background—Latino, Filipino, Indian, Chinese, African American, and beyond—contribute to the city’s vitality.
As one response summarized, “Diversity is our strength, unity is our goal.” Several participants urged the City to recognize Indigenous Ohlone roots and the legacy of activism that shaped Decoto’s modern identity. Residents called for acknowledgment of social justice struggles, from the 1970s Chicano movement to ongoing efforts for community representation and healing.
Equally strong were themes of family, youth, and everyday life. For example, references to baseball leagues, community festivals, local churches, and shared memories make Union City feel like home. These responses reveal a city where connection and belonging are as important as history itself.
Finally, a smaller but notable set of voices looked ahead, suggesting that the mural also reflects nature, sustainability, and the city’s growth. A visual bridge between its agricultural past and its innovative future.
Question 6, Optional: We invite you to provide any additional ideas or feedback on the BART Mural Project.
Summary Analysis of Community Response to Question 6
The open-ended feedback echoed many of the same themes seen in the first question, but with added depth and specificity.
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 17 Residents emphasized the importance of community representation and pride, describing the mural as a reflection of everyday life - families, neighbors, and shared spaces that make Union City feel like home. Many comments pointed to Decoto’s legacy, calling for the project to honor and acknowledge the neighborhood’s history, landmarks, and people who have shaped its identity over time.
Several respondents expanded on earlier themes about gladiolus farming and agricultural roots, suggesting that these stories should appear alongside depictions of car clubs, local heroes, and small businesses that define the city’s cultural texture.
Expressions of diversity and unity remained central. Participants voiced appreciation for Union City’s multicultural character and called for the mural to celebrate inclusiveness across generations and ethnic backgrounds. A few looked toward the future, imagining imagery tied to environmental sustainability and technological innovation, while others urged recognition of Indigenous Ohlone roots and social justice history.
Overall, these responses reinforce that the mural should be both local and collective.
Honoring Decoto’s distinct heritage while celebrating the broader Union City community that continues to grow from it.
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 18 Civic Insights
Arts and Culture Commission Meeting
July 15, 2025 | City of Union City
Overview
The Arts and Culture Commission meeting held on July 15, 2025, served as one of the earliest opportunities for public discussion of the BART Mural Project. Commissioners and community members gathered to share input and feedback on the proposed approach, including the project’s scope, theme development, survey, and methods of community engagement. Decoto residents, both past and present, expressed the importance of having their families’ and community’s history and legacy, and contribution to Union City be recognized and honored through the BART Mural Project.
The discussion reflected the Commission’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that public art projects in Union City reflect the city’s diverse histories, voices, and neighborhoods.
Commissioners expressed a strong interest in a collaborative process that integrates local stories, cultural representation, and transparency. The meeting also highlighted the importance of aligning the mural project with the city’s broader strategic goals for arts, culture, and community connection.
Public Comments from Community Members:
Cathy Kelly
Michelle Parala
Rosa Miramonte
Elanor Zamora
Cheris Crocker Root
Celestino Salazar
Key Discussion Points from the Arts and Culture Commission Meeting:
Commitment to Representation: Commissioners affirmed that the mural should authentically reflect the people and cultures of Union City, particularly the heritage of the Decoto community, as the mural site lies within its historical boundaries.
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 19 Community Engagement: There was broad agreement on the need for ongoing intentional and strategic community participation throughout all stages of the project — from theme development to artist selection — ensuring that residents’ voices shape the final design.
Cultural and Historical Relevance: The Commission emphasized integrating both historical and contemporary elements, including references to Decoto’s agricultural and labor past, civic leaders, and evolving cultural expressions.
Transparency and Collaboration: Commissioners supported open communication between themselves, City staff, and community partners to foster trust and shared decision-making.
Youth and Education: Several comments noted the opportunity to involve youth, schools, and local arts programs in the process, promoting education and civic pride through participation
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 20 City Council Meeting
August 12, 2025 | Union City Council/Successor Agency Regular Meeting At the City Council meeting held on August 12, 2025, City staff presented on the BART Mural Project workplan. During the meeting, the community members spoke passionately in support of centering the BART Mural Project on the history, legacy, and lived experiences of the Decoto neighborhood. Speakers emphasized the importance of accurate and inclusive representation, recognition of local heroes, and preservation of community memory.
Public Comments from Community Members:
Maria Ramirez
Alicia Gonzales-Candelaria
Rosalinda Miramontes
Liz Mora
Michelle Parala
Lisa Ruiz
Christine Start
Victor Lopez
Key Discussion Points from the City Council Meeting:
Centering Decoto: Strong consensus that the mural should focus on Decoto’s people, history, and identity.
Representation and Inclusion: Calls for accurate portrayal of cultural diversity, particularly Latino, Indigenous, and working-class histories.
Honoring Veterans and Local Leaders: Recognition of community service and leadership across generations.
Historical Preservation: Desire to capture lost landmarks, agricultural roots, and stories of migration.
Transparency and Engagement: Requests for accessible communication, multilingual materials, and continued community participation.
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 21 Summary and Synthesis of Civic Insights
Arts and Culture Commission and City Council Meetings
Across both public meetings, community members and civic leaders voiced a unified call for the BART Mural Project to authentically represent Decoto’s history and legacy while reflecting the broader story of Union City. The tone of both gatherings emphasized pride, urgency, care, and a desire not only for representation, but for respectful remembrance and future-facing inclusion.
The conversations underscored the mural’s role as more than a visual enhancement; it is a means of civic recognition and community healing. For Decoto residents, the mural stands as an opportunity to correct a history of underrepresentation and neglect and to visibly honor the people, culture, and experiences that shaped Union City’s identity.
Commissioners and residents alike spoke of collaboration, transparency, and access.
Speakers recognized that meaningful participation requires equitable outreach and communication.
Key Summary Points:
● Representation Rooted in Place: Both meetings affirmed that the mural should center the Decoto neighborhood’s history and lived experience while weaving in Union City’s broader diversity.
● Cultural and Historical Depth: There was strong consensus on including agricultural, labor, and Chicano histories, as well as honoring veterans, civic leaders, and artists who built the community.
● Inclusive Engagement: Participants urged that future project phases continue to invite feedback through multilingual materials, open meetings, and ongoing collaboration with local artists and residents.
● Transparency and Trust: Calls for improved communication between City staff, City Council, the Arts and Culture Commission, and residents highlighted the need for shared accountability and visibility throughout the process. ● Art as Connection: The mural is envisioned as a bridge — linking past and present, honoring community memory, and celebrating unity in diversity across Union City’s neighborhoods.
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Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 22 Findings and Insights: Community Forum
September 11, 2025 | Kennedy Youth Center
Overview
The Community Forum at Kennedy Youth Center brought together elected officials, commissioners from the Arts and Culture, Senior, and Parks and Recreation Commissions, community members, and long-term Decoto families to share stories, memories, and ideas for the BART Mural Project. Participants were divided into small breakout groups, each facilitated by City staff. Through five discussion prompts, attendees described what makes Decoto special, the emotions and values the mural should express, and how the process itself can reflect community pride and inclusion.
The forum deepened and personalized many of the themes identified in the citywide survey, offering a powerful sense of place-based identity and collective ownership of the project.
The following questions and responses were gathered from the Community Forum. EO Consulting then collated all responses and conducted a comprehensive summary and analysis of the topics and ideas shared by attendees.
Community Forum Question 1: Describe your experience living in Decoto.
Participants described Decoto as a close-knit, multigenerational neighborhood defined by connection, resilience, and belonging. The phrase “one big family” appeared repeatedly, capturing the pride residents feel in their community’s unity and warmth.
Many spoke of growing up in Decoto. Examples included: attending school, celebrating local festivals, and participating in youth sports and church events.
The most common sentiments included family, pride, diversity, and history. Residents highlighted the area’s deep roots, such as the gladiolus fields, James Logan High School, and Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, as pillars of shared identity. For many community members, Decoto represents not only home but also legacy - a place where culture and memory endure across generations.
Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 23 Community Forum Question 2: What ideas or concepts should be incorporated in the mural?
The conversation around mural concepts produced an extraordinary range of ideas and imagery. Many saw the mural as both a record of history and a living reflection of community identity.
Participants called for the inclusion of agricultural history - the gladiolus fields, the canneries, and the laborers who built early Union City. Others emphasized Chicano and Latino heritage and highlighted cultural expressions such as lowrider car clubs, folklórico dance, and references to local activists and civic leaders.
Frequent mentions included local landmarks and heroes - from Rollie’s Barbershop and Centro de Servicios to individuals like Richard Valle and Maria Viscarra, who represent decades of community leadership.
Nature also emerged as a recurring theme: the surrounding hills, wildlife, and open landscapes that frame daily life in Union City. Participants suggested incorporating symbols such as flowers, trains, family gatherings, and musical instruments - elements that celebrate the rhythm of local life.
Overall, the mural was envisioned as a visual narrative of resilience, culture, and belonging. As one participant commented, “one that looks like the people,” and honors Decoto’s working-class roots, and celebrates its enduring vitality.
Community Forum Question 3: What emotions or feelings should the artwork reflect or inspire?
Across all groups, participants described wanting the artwork to evoke feelings of pride, unity, and love. Multiple comments centered consistently around words such as “resilience,” “hope,” “strength,” and “home.”
Residents shared that they want the mural to feel “heartwarming” and “recognizable,” representing both the struggles and triumphs that define Decoto’s story. The emotional tone should reflect both nostalgia and optimism for the future. The mural should be a visual affirmation of who we are and where we come from.
Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 24 Community Forum Question 4: What positive message should the mural share? Participants envisioned the mural as a message of hope and perseverance. Common phrases included “We’re still here,” “Si Se Puede,” and “Together we can overcome anything.”
Themes of unity in diversity, hard work, and community pride dominated the discussion.
Many expressed that the mural should honor Latino and Indigenous contributions, celebrate the strength of working families, and remind young people that they are part of a proud, forward-looking legacy of community members. For several participants, the mural’s message could be summed up simply: Decoto is home.
Community Forum Question 5: Anything we should consider? The final discussion focused on ensuring the mural process itself embodies community values. Participants emphasized the importance of representation and inclusion, calling for a design that honors all cultural communities, generations, and neighborhoods within Union City.
There was strong agreement that local artists should be commissioned and that youth should have a voice in the creative process. Many stressed the need for historical accuracy and equity, ensuring that the mural reflects both Decoto’s Latino and Indigenous heritage and the city’s growing multicultural fabric.
Participants expressed that each mural pillar could tell its own story, but together they should form a unified expression of pride, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
Synthesis
The community forum reinforced key themes that surfaced in the survey, specifically heritage, diversity, resilience, and belonging, while deepening their emotional and cultural resonance. Residents expressed an abiding pride in Decoto’s identity as a neighborhood built by families, rooted in hard work, and defined by shared struggle and joy.
Through storytelling, participants articulated a collective interest: the BART Mural Project should honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire future generations. It should be both a mirror and a beacon, reflecting the heart of the Decoto community and welcoming all who pass through Union City’s vibrant BART Station District.
Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 25 Summary of All Community Feedback
Community Survey, Community Forum, Arts and Culture
Commission, and City Council Meetings
Emerging and Recurring Themes
Across all outreach methods, including the community survey, Community Forum, and Arts and Culture Commission and City Council meetings a unified narrative emerged.
Residents expressed deep pride in Union City’s cultural and historical diversity, with particular emphasis on honoring the Decoto neighborhood as a foundational part of the city’s identity. Participants see the BART Mural Project not simply as public art, but as a visual story of belonging, resilience, and transformation.
The feedback consistently underscored the importance of authentic representation, transparency, and continuity. Residents expressed an interest in remaining engaged as the project progresses from planning to design and installation.
Recurring themes include:
● Representation of Decoto’s Legacy: The mural should reflect Decoto’s central role in Union City’s history, celebrating its residents, Chicano roots, and community leaders.
● Agricultural and Labor Heritage: Frequent references to gladiolus fields, farm workers, and the bracero era highlight the community’s agricultural foundation. ● Cultural Pride and Identity: Respondents called for visual storytelling that uplifts Latino, Filipino, and Indigenous contributions while embracing Union City’s multiculturalism.
● Youth and Future Generations: Many residents emphasized connecting past and present. For example, showing children, students, and youth as inheritors of the city’s legacy.
● Public Art with Purpose: There was strong interest in art that inspires civic pride, fosters learning, and welcomes both locals and visitors to the city. ● Transparency and Inclusion: Participants voiced a desire for clear communication, multilingual engagement, and ongoing collaboration with local artists.
Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 26 Identified Community Values, Priorities, and Cultural Narratives The community’s collective input reveals several shared values that should guide the project’s thematic development and artist selection process:
● Belonging and Recognition: A desire to see Decoto’s people, stories, and contributions visibly honored as integral to Union City’s narrative. ● Cultural Continuity: Respect for generational heritage, from Indigenous roots to immigrant labor and civic leadership. These are depicted as a source of pride and identity.
● Equity and Voice: Commitment to processes that ensure all residents, regardless of language or background, can meaningfully participate in shaping public art.
● Resilience and Progress: An understanding of Union City as a community that has grown through struggle, advocacy, and unity. A community that has moved forward while remembering its roots.
● Creativity and Collaboration: An appreciation for art that connects people, encourages learning, and reflects the city’s diversity through beauty and dialogue.
The depth and consistency of community feedback across all engagement activities underscore a clear mandate: the BART Mural Project must authentically represent the people of the Decoto neighborhood and the broader Union City community through inclusive collaboration and thoughtful storytelling. These findings form the foundation for developing a cohesive Vision and Theme Framework that honors local history, celebrates cultural diversity, and builds trust through continued engagement. The next section translates these insights into actionable recommendations to guide the project’s creative direction and implementation process.
Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 27 Recommendations and Next Steps
A. Recommendations for Theme and Vision Development
The theme and vision for the BART Mural Project should grow directly from the insights and findings presented in this report. Community input clearly articulates a desire for the artwork to honor Decoto’s history, reflect Union City’s cultural diversity, and uplift the values that define the community today. At the same time, the mural must follow BART’s Art Program Guidelines and remain appropriate for long-term public display on transit infrastructure.
B. Interpreting These Insights in Alignment with BART’s Guidelines BART guidelines discourage murals that serve as literal or interpretive depictions of a community’s history (e.g., portraits, timelines, realist reenactments). This is not intended to minimize the importance of Decoto’s story, but to promote inclusivity, long-term relevance, and artistic expression that avoids representational conflicts.
The insights gathered, however, offer strong pathways for artists to honor history and identity within these guidelines. Through symbolism, metaphor, abstraction, and evocative imagery, rather than literal scenes.
These examples will help guide artists toward designs that meaningfully reflect the community while maintaining compliance with BART’s policies.
The artist(s) will interpret the theme - not reproduce individual requests.
The selected artist(s) will develop a concept that draws inspiration from the approved theme and community context. This approach preserves artistic authenticity while grounding the work in shared community values.
C. Artist Engagement
The remaining phases of the BART Mural Project will include an ongoing collaborative, inclusive, and transparent approach that continues to be grounded in community participation and voice.
Integrate Community Insights into Project Documents:
● Incorporate the findings in this report into the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) ● Clearly articulate the community priorities, themes, and values to help artists understand the project’s cultural context.
Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 28 D. Ongoing Transparency
To ensure the continued engagement of community members, elected officials, and partners, throughout each phase of the project, City staff will:
● Communicate upcoming phases and next steps to residents. ● Provide ongoing opportunities and invite Decoto community members, the Arts and Culture Commission, City Council, BART, and other stakeholders to stay involved throughout the life of the project.
E. Future Outreach or Documentation Strategies
Throughout the outreach process, many residents voiced concerns about the lack of long-term preservation of the Decoto community’s history and contribution. While the mural can honor the community’s spirit, it cannot and should not serve as the sole repository of historical memory.
Historical narratives require specialized research, ongoing stewardship, and community review. These efforts are often better suited to civic, cultural, or archival platforms.
Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 29 Recommendations for Preserving and Sharing Decoto’s
History Beyond the Mural
1. Implement a Broader Public Art Strategy
Explore additional opportunities, such as utility boxes, crosswalks, and/or other public and private spaces to display art and murals. These spaces can potentially feature more literal, or narrative elements not currently permitted on BART property.
2. Partner with Local Organizations to Record and Archive Decoto Community History
Explore the opportunity to partner with organizations such as the Alameda County Public Library system, community-based organizations, businesses, and civic groups to identify collaborative strategies to collect, archive, and promote oral histories, photographs, and documents that preserve the stories of Decoto families across generations.
3. Install Interpretive Markers or Signage
Explore the opportunity and feasibility of creating outdoor history markers, and/or interpretive signage that could be installed in parks or along pedestrian routes to share historical information with residents and visitors.
4. Host a Decoto History Exhibition
Explore the opportunity and feasibility to collaborate with a local museum, cultural center, and other organizations to create a temporary or rotating exhibition highlighting:
● Archival materials
● Family histories
● Labor and migration stories
● Community leaders
● Cultural traditions
5. Develop a Digital Archive or Microsite
Explore the opportunity and feasibility of hosting a website that can archive communitycontributed stories, scanned documents, photographs, and videos to serve as a living historical resource that the community can help build and access.
Draft: 1/8/2026
Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report 30 Appendices
Due to the length of the appendices the following documents referenced in this report can be accessed on the City of Union City website: www.unioncity.org/967/BART-MuralProject. • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), Arts Program Guidelines • Community Emails and Letters
• Community Outreach and Survey Distribution List
• July 15, 2025, Arts and Culture Commission Meeting Public Comments Summary
• August 12, 2025, Union City Council Meeting Public Comments Summary • September 11, 2025, BART Mural Project Community Forum Notes A copy of the entire Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report and Appendices can be accessed by scanning the QR Code below:
To request a paper copy of the entire Union City BART Mural Project Community Feedback Report, please call (510) 675-5277 or email
[email protected]