County Celebrates Cultural Diversity Month

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release  

October 6, 2009

LOS ANGELES COUNTY AND THE COMMISSION ON HUMAN RELATIONS

CELEBRATE DIVERSITY

Board of Supervisors Declares October “Cultural Diversity Month”

Los Angeles County—The Human Relations Commission (HRC) announced today that the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has once again declared October “Cultural Diversity Month” in Los Angeles County.   Upon an initiative of the Commission on Human Relations, the Board of Supervisors has—for almost three decades—marked October as Cultural Diversity Month in the County of Los Angeles.

        The Board’s declaration cited that Los Angeles County has been enriched by the contributions of its residents, many of whom come from all regions of the globe or whose parents or grandparents are immigrants, who have greatly enhanced and made valuable contributions to the cultural and economic and spiritual life of our County.

        “We encourage cities and community civic groups to support, sponsor and promote events that emphasize the ways in which diverse cultures enrich our lives,” said Cynthia Banks, Director, Community and Senior Services.

        “This month-long celebration is an occasion for all resident and County employees to learn more about their neighbors, increase their sensitivity, respect and understanding of others, and challenge negative stereotypes and prejudices whenever and wherever  they appear.” said Robin Toma, Executive Director, Los Angeles County Human Relations Commission.  “Among our activities, the HRC has initiated several initiatives that are targeted to eliminate bigotry and instill common values among our youth,” he stated.

        The HRC strives to reflect multicultural diversity; and its President, Dr. Sandra E. Thomas, is the first African-American female to serve in this position since the formation of the Commission.  Under Dr. Thomas’ leadership, the HRC will continue its anti-discrimination program called zerohour: No Haters Here!  and the Racialized Gang Violence Prevention Initiative to demonstrate how youth, schools and communities can make a difference. 

About HRC

Human Relations Commissioners are appointed by the Board of Supervisors for four-year terms at the pleasure of the Board. Its mission is to foster harmonious and equitable intergroup relations, empower communities and institutions to engage in non-violent conflict resolution, and promote an informed and inclusive multicultural society.  You may visit the Human Relations Commission online at http://lahumanrelations.org for links to Cultural Diversity Month-related events around the county.

Contact:  Patricia Senette-Holt, Community and Senior Services, External Communications Officer, (213) 738-2065 or psenette@css.lacounty.gov

A photograph of the October 6, 2009 Board of Supervisors’ Cultural Diversity Month scroll presentation to the Human Relations Commission is available upon request

                                        

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Judy,  Please release to the media.

Thank you.

PSH