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Dear Equity Ally,
The start of 2026 has not been easy on our vision of just and fair inclusion where everyone has the opportunities they need to reach their full potential. In Minnesota, we have watched a degradation of peoples constitutional and civil rights, increased racial profiling, violence, and attacks on immigrants. At the same time, we have also seen our local County Board of Supervisors condemn the violence and call for unity and shared prosperity.
At their first meeting in 2026, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors held its annual reorganization, welcoming Supervisor Noelia Corzo as Board President and Supervisor Ray Mueller as Vice President for the year ahead. President Corzo’s leadership is historic. Born and raised in San Mateo to Guatemalan immigrant parents, her years as a social worker and her lived experience inform her focus on equitable access to housing, public safety, and economic opportunity. She is the first Indigenous person and first Latina to serve as Board President — a meaningful milestone for representation in County leadership. In her remarks upon taking office, President Corzo articulated a vision centered on shared prosperity and inclusion.
This moment of leadership renewal comes at a pivotal time nationally. As our nation marks 250 years since founding, neighbors across the country are navigating profound change, grief, and calls for accountability. We are seeing the ongoing work required to protect civil rights, dignity, and safety. In tumultuous moments like these, civic participation and equitable democracy matter more than ever.
A healthy democracy requires diverse and representative participation in democratic processes to ensure that systems reflect and serve all communities. Equitable democracy is one of the Office of Racial and Social Justice’s five areas of impact. This work remains a core commitment as we continue to build inclusive systems, strengthen local partnerships, and ensure opportunities are accessible across all communities.
In each Community Bulletin, we feature open seats on County Boards and Commissions where residents can share their experiences, expertise, and help inform key decisions by departments and the Board of Supervisors. We encourage you to consider these opportunities and share them with your networks. Diversifying voices in our civic infrastructure is a critical aspect of just and fair inclusion.
We look forward to continuing the work to advance fair and inclusive governance in the year ahead. Thank you for your partnership and support.
In solidarity,
The Office of Racial and Social Justice
Andrew Knaack, Equity and Belonging Associate
Shireen Malekafzali Taidi, Chief Equity Officer
Shane Ross, Labor Standards Manager
Caline Salame, Equity and Belonging Associate
Belén Seara, Equity and Belonging Manager
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Beginning February 1st, Black History Month honors the theme “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” established by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH)—the organization recognized as the founders of Black History Month. This year’s theme marks 100 years of intentional efforts to preserve, study, and elevate Black history as an essential part of the American story.
ASALH was founded in 1915 by historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who introduced Negro History Week in 1926, deliberately placing it in February to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. What began as a weeklong observance grew over decades into Black History Month, officially recognized nationwide in the mid-1970s. Today, ASALH continues to guide the national commemoration, shaping how Black history is taught, remembered, and carried forward.
To learn more about ASALH and their work within the community, visit their website for more information.
 To stay connected at a national level, sign up for the National Museum of African American History and Culture’s newsletter, A People’s Journey, A Nation’s Story. As the museum marks its 10-year anniversary in 2026, the newsletter offers stories, exhibitions, and resources that connect history to the present moment.
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 San Mateo County Health invites the community to a Black History Month Educational Experience at the Domini Hoskins Black History Museum and Learning Center in Downtown Redwood City. Join this interactive event on February 21 from 1:00–3:00 p.m. to learn, reflect, and engage with Black history in a local and community-centered space.
Where: 890 Jefferson Avenue, Redwood City, CA
When: Saturday, February 21 from 1:00-3:00 p.m.
This February, we honor the life and legacy of Betty Reid Soskin, who passed away on December 12, 2025, at the age of 104. Soskin was the oldest active National Park Ranger in U.S. history, serving at Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historical Park in Richmond, California.
A lifelong activist, historian, and storyteller, Soskin challenged traditional narratives by centering the lived experiences of Black women and communities often excluded from historical record. Her work reminds us that history is not static, but is shaped by whose stories are told, preserved, and passed on.
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A new episode of the County’s ‘Open Mike’ podcast released this past December, hosted by County Executive Mike Callagy.
Mike catches up with new Sheriff Mike Binder in studio. Sheriff Binder talks about his 27 years of broad experience in law enforcement and the importance of serving the public well.
Watch or listen at www.smcgov.org/openmike or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube, and send feedback or suggestions to openmike@smcgov.org.
 With the Super Bowl bringing big crowds and activity across the region, make sure you’re signed up for emergency alerts.
Text SUPERBOWL to 672-83 or visit www.smcalert.info to sign up for alerts.
Have feedback? We would appreciate feedback about what information you most want to hear from us. For feedback, please email us at equitysmc@smcgov.org.
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There are opportunities to practice arts and crafts, try yoga, advance your English skills, attend free meal events, participate in language learning programs, join book clubs, access resources for new parents and babies, prepare for citizenship tests, study for the SAT, and much more.
Take a look at your local offerings to see if anything piques your interest or consider if there’s an opportunity where you might contribute your time and expertise.
In moments of national uncertainty, access to clear and trusted information matters. San Mateo County offers a centralized hub of immigrant rights resources, including Know Your Rights information, connections to legal assistance, rapid response support, and pathways to citizenship. These resources are available to help individuals and families navigate their options, understand their protections, and access support when it’s needed most.
Learn more through Immigrant Services at the County of San Mateo.
A moment of reflection:
- Who is/are the Black historic figures that inspire you? Why?
- Do you have any traditions during Black History Month? If not, would you like starting new traditions?
- What do you see as your role and contribution to civil rights at this moment in history?
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