HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda 02-03-2026; 4-b - Human Relations Month Proclamation 1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: February 3, 2026
Action Agenda
Item No. 4-b
SUBJECT: Human Relations Month Proclamation
DEPARTMENT: Office of Civil Rights and Civic
Life
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
Proclamation Paul Slack, 919-245-2317
PURPOSE: To approve a proclamation designating February 2026 as Human Relations Month
in Orange County.
BACKGROUND: Human Relations Month was established to promote understanding, respect,
and cooperation among people of diverse racial, cultural, and social backgrounds. The
observance emerged in the mid-20th century, during a period marked by significant social change
and growing national attention to civil rights, equity, and democratic participation. Its purpose is
to encourage reflection, dialogue, and action that strengthen relationships and foster inclusive
communities.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with consideration of the
proclamation.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports:
• GOAL 5: PUBLIC EDUCATION/LEARNING COMMUNITY
OBJECTIVE 1. Foster collaborative relationships with formal and informal educational
organizations and agencies to provide opportunities for community members to meet,
connect, and learn together.
• GOAL 6: DIVERSE AND VIBRANT ECONOMY
OBJECTIVE 1. Provide family-oriented and inclusive programming or other cultural events
for residents and visitors.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board approve the proclamation
and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation.
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS 2
HUMAN RELATIONS MONTH
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners established the Human Relations
Commission in June 1987 with the desire to "encourage mutual understanding and fair treatment of all
citizens"; and
WHEREAS, the Orange County Human Relations Commission believes that to achieve justice and
equal opportunity for all Orange County residents, we must all strive to create an atmosphere where
people are valued and accepted rather than merely tolerated; and
WHEREAS, the Orange County Human Relations Commission, having diligently served Orange
County since 1987, still remains committed to promoting equal treatment, opportunity and
understanding throughout the county; and
WHEREAS, the Orange County Human Relations Commission enforces the County' s Civil Rights
Ordinance which specifically prohibits discrimination based on an individual' s race, color, creed,
religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, affectional preference, disability, age, marital status, or status
with regard to public assistance; and
WHEREAS, continued work is necessary to advance civil rights for all residents and to reduce harm
resulting from discrimination, disability, and systemic or institutional barriers that limit individuals'
access to fair and equal treatment; and
WHEREAS, the Orange County Human Relations Commission and the Board of County
Commissioners affirm their responsibility to uphold civil rights and civil liberties and to respond to
emerging challenges that threaten these rights; and
WHEREAS, the Orange County Human Relations Commission encourages residents to take an active
role in opposing injustice and to work together to ensure freedom, justice, and equal opportunity for all;
and
WHEREAS, Orange County remains committed to progressing towards being a place with more
equitable and inclusive practices that strengthen the well-being of the entire community;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Orange County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim February
2026 as "Human Relations Month" in Orange County, and call upon all residents to promote civil rights
by celebrating multiculturalism, embracing diversity, and supporting equal access and opportunity for
all who live and work in Orange County.
THIS THE 3rd DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2026.
Jean Hamilton, Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners