The City of Martinez is proud to announce the commencement of its Diversity and Cultural Commission, a milestone reflecting the commitment of the City to the implementation of its Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) Roadmap.
The Commission held its first official meeting on May 1, 2025. This inaugural meeting included the induction of new Commission members with their oath of office, and the establishment of the Chair and Vice-Chair positions for the coming year of meetings. Commission members include Loraine Brittingham, Luka Afonine, Vana Tran, Steeve Boulingui, Dr. Tracey Edwards Moore, Gwyneth Gilkey, and Marcos Barajas, with alternate members Samar Sobhy and Steve Welch. Dr. Moore was elected by the Commission as Chair, and Ms. Gilkey was elected Vice-Chair.
The Diversity and Cultural Commission will aim to strengthen community building and engagement by highlighting diverse perspectives and cultural experiences. It will play a key role in advising the City Council on matters related to the City’s DEIB Roadmap, as well as in planning inclusive events, conducting community listening sessions, and providing feedback on City outreach and communications.
This marks the first new commission created in decades, a clear demonstration of how highly the City Council prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in Martinez. Mayor Brianne Zorn expressed enthusiasm for the Commission’s launch, congratulating the Commission, “I’m really excited to see what great things you can do for Martinez, and I hope that everybody who’s here tonight is aware and proud of what we’re doing.”
The Diversity and Cultural Commission will continue its work in the coming months, meeting quarterly to advance its initiatives and provide a consistent forum for ongoing discussions on diversity and inclusion, with opportunities for community involvement, meetings, and initiatives to be announced as the Commission gets underway.
Previous
- Sept. 2024 – Martinez Opens Applications for Diversity and Cultural Commission
- July 19, 2024 – Martinez Approves Creation of Diversity and Cultural Commission
- July 15, 2024 – Martinez Looks to Establish Diversity and Cultural Commission
- June 3, 2024 – Martinez to Establish Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Commission
- June 23, 2023 – Martinez Approves Roadmap for Diversity, Equity Inclusion and Belonging
