Background
On June 3, 2014 the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a resolution to establish California’s first county or city commission focused on the needs of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) community.
In February of 2014, members of the San Mateo County LGBTQ community came together to request that the Board of Supervisors establish a San Mateo County LGBTQ Commission in order to improve the quality of life and well-being of LGBTQ County residents. In the ensuing months, at the direction of Supervisor Dave Pine, county staff worked with community representatives to develop guidelines for the commission and to define its potential goals.
Purpose
- Bring greater recognition and visibility to the LGBTQ community in San Mateo County by supporting such events as the County's Pride celebration.
- Reduce harassment and bullying of LGBTQ youth in local middle schools and high schools.
- Develop policy recommendations to improve outcomes for underserved and at-risk segments of the LGBTQ population, including youth, communities of color, non-English speakers, seniors and immigrants.
- Promote transgender inclusion among private and public entities in San Mateo County including access to health care and to gendered spaces such as bathrooms and shelters.
- Recommend initiatives to support LGBTQ families with children.
- Take positions pertaining to federal, state and local policies, programs and procedures, and any legislation affecting LGBTQ individuals.
The Commission will meet at least six times a year, implement a yearly work plan, and provide recommendations to the Board of Supervisors at least once a year.