City of Ukiah Diversity & Equity

At the City of Ukiah, we understand that we have a unique responsibility to all residents as local government and public servants. We know that it is not enough to prioritize diversity. We must also prioritize equity and inclusion to create a culture where every individual and group is welcomed, respected, and provided the opportunity to participate fully. To ensure ongoing progress in these areas, the Ukiah City Council established an eleven (11) member Diversity and Equity Standing Committee in 2020 and adopted a strategic Equity Action Plan in 2022. The Committee and City staff have been diligently working to implement the goals of this plan. 

Continually working to promote diversity, equity, transparency, and justice through the adoption and implementation of City practices, policies, and procedures.

Who We Are

Juan Orozco

Councilmember
Representing City Council

Heather Criss

Councilmember
Representing City Council

Denise Gorny

Representing Persons with Lived Experience of Poverty

Xochilt Morales de Martinez

Representing Persons with Physical or Mental Disabilities

Vacant

Representing Persons from the LGBTQA Community

Brian Williams

Representing Native American Tribes and Communities in Mendocino County

Lorena Akin, DEI Member

Lorena Akin

Representing Persons from the Hispanic/Latino Community

Vacant

Representing Persons of Color

Vacant

Representing Youth 21 Years and Younger

David Lieberman

Representing Seniors 65 Years or Older

Vacant

Representing Persons Whose Primary Language is not English

NEWS/UPDATES

Latest News

Proclamation recognizing June 2025 as LGBTQIA2S+ Pride Month

On June 4, 2025, the Ukiah City Council issued a proclamation recognizing June as LGBTQIA2S+ Pride Month in the City of Ukiah. This proclamation acknowledges the City of Ukiah’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and equitable city for all, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, and affirms the inherent dignity of every person. Jayden Musselman-Charmers, accepted the proclamation on behalf of the LGBTQIA2S+ individuals in our community.

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Proclamation recognizing June 2025 as Immigrant Heritage Month 

On June 4, 2025, the Ukiah City Council issued a proclamation recognizing June as Immigrant Heritage Month in the City of Ukiah.  Jackie Orozco, Editor of Al Punto Magazine and Board Member of Ukiah Vecinos en Acción (UVA), accepted the proclamation on behalf of the foreign-born individuals that enhance the City of Ukiah’s vibrant culture and prosperity, diversify our neighborhoods, and strengthen our local economy.

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Proclamation recognizing May 2025 as Older Americans’ Month 

On May 21, 2025, the Ukiah City Council issued a proclamation recognizing May as Older Americans’ Month in the City of Ukiah. The proclamation acknowledges the valuable contributions of older adults in our community.  Liz Dorsey, Executive Director of the Ukiah Senior Center, accepted the proclamation on behalf of the seniors in the Ukiah Valley.

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Proclamation recognizing May 2025 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month 

On May 7, 2025, the Ukiah City Council presented a proclamation recognizing May as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the City of Ukiah. Jin Jr Shi from IGDVS Instilling Goodness & Developing Virtue School and DRBU Dharma Realm Buddhist University accepted the proclamation on behalf of the Asian American and Pacific Islander local community.

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Proclamation recognizing February 2025 as Black History Month 

On February 5, 2025, the Ukiah City Council presented a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month in the City of Ukiah. Charlotte Lemons from Redwood Community Services accepted the proclamation on behalf of the local community.

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2025 Ukiah Police Department Spanish Recruitment Video

(Click on the image below to play the video. By GYO Production)

2024 City of Ukiah Día de los Muertos Celebration

(Click on the image below to play the video. By Digo & Flor Mendoza)

Diversity and Equity Committee engage with Ukiah Police Department in a Community Policing Workshop. 

Following the success of the recent Community Policing Workshop held at the Alex Rorabaugh Center, the City of Ukiah’s Diversity and Equity Committee reconvened for a follow-up discussion with Police Chief Crook. This discussion served as a continuation of the city’s commitment to fostering improved community-police relations and advancing the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Read more in the November 8th press release

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Committee Highlights

Ukiah City Council Adoption of the Equity Action Plan 2022-01 on January 19, 2022

Action Plan & Progress - English

Action Plan & Progress - Spanish

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