Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At the City of Huntington Beach, we strive to meet the highest standard when it comes to establishing diversity, equity, and inclusion within our community.

The City continues to work towards policies and programs to meet this standard and create a welcoming environment where every resident, business owner and visitor is valued and respected. We wish to send the message that we embrace their diverse backgrounds, including ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age and ability. Through open dialogue, the City aims to form new bonds and achieve our goals together as One HB.

Current Policies and Programs:

City Installs a Mobi-Mat for Access to the Ocean

On May 5, 2021, the City installed a Mobi-Mat to improve beach access for visitors with disabilities, parents with strollers, and others with limited mobility. Located next to the 6th Street and PCH parking lot, the mat serves as a stable walkway that safely leads guests across the sand and to the water’s edge during high tide. The Mobi-Mat is portable, non-slip and made with recyclable materials.
Mayor Carr Denounces KKK Fliers - April 5, 2021
Human Relations Task Force

Established by the City of Huntington Beach in 1997, the mission of the Human Relations Task Force is to promote and celebrate diversity in our community through education and understanding. The HRTF has established several programs that celebrate our diverse cultures, including the quarterly Cultural Cinema Showcase, District-Wide Student Day of Dialogue, and Community Summit to share stories and discuss prominent issues of the time.

The Human Relations Task Force meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 6:45PM. During COVID-19, the Task Force meets via Zoom and more information is available on the Human Relations Task Force website.
City Council Policies

The City Council has adopted policies and resolutions in support of diversity, equality and inclusion in Huntington Beach.

LGBTQ Pride Month Recognition and Flag Raising
On May 3, 2021, the City Council voted to recognize Pride Month and to fly the LGBTQ Pride Flag annually, from the third week of May until June 30. This decision was in support of over 11 million Americans who identify as LGBTQ and to foster a community that is inclusive of all residents and visitors.

Declaration Denouncing Hate Crimes Against Asian Americans
When COVID-19 began, inflammatory rhetoric blaming Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) for the pandemic led to a national surge in hate crimes and incidents against this community. On April 5, 2021, the City Council took a stand against these acts by adopting a Declaration Denouncing All Hate Crimes.

Declaration Denouncing White Supremacy
On April 5, 2021, the City Council denounced any and all acts of White Supremacy, which sow fear and promote division within our community. The City is committed to remain vigilant against future movements, in order to preserve its values of diversity and inclusion for all.

Declaration of Policy About Human Dignity
On May 6, 1996, the City of Huntington Beach City Council unanimously adopted a Declaration of Policy About Human Dignity, which prompted the creation of the HRTF in 1997. The Declaration states that everyone should be treated with courtesy and respect and any acts of hate will not be tolerated. The City Council reaffirms the Declaration at intervals with the latest taking place as recently as 2020 and 2021.

Resolution to Stand In Unity
On June 15, 2020, the City Council adopted a Resolution to Stand Together in Unity as OneHB against all forms of intolerance, racism, and hate. This Resolution was adopted in response to the unconscionable actions of the Minneapolis Police Department that led to the killing of George Floyd. The City stands together in unity with Mr. Floyd’s family, our African American community, all people of color, those who have been marginalized, and those who protest against injustice and intolerance.

Proclamation Against Bullying
On October 15, 2012, the City Council signed a Proclamation Against Bullying to proclaim its ongoing commitment to prevent bullying and encourage schools, students, parents, community organizations, and religious institutions to engage in a variety of awareness and prevention activities designed to make our community safer for all students.
Public Outreach

The City conducts various public outreach activities to raise greater awareness about issues surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to using every tool in our tool belt to promote these values throughout the community and to create an environment that is welcoming for all.

On April 11, 2021, the City hosted Hate Free HB – a virtual day of unity to stand against hate and celebrate diversity in Huntington Beach.

On April 1, 2021, the City and Orange County Human Relations hosted a virtual Town Hall to raise awareness about the rise in hate crimes and incidents against Asian Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Town Hall provided tips about how bystanders can safely de-escalate a hate crime in progress or to provide support to victims afterwards.
Resources

Community Dialogue Series

The Huntington Beach Human Relations Task Force, in partnership with OC Human Relations, welcomes all Huntington Beach residents to join us for a community dialogue session discussing community solidarity. The virtual event takes place on Thursday, May 20 at 6pm. All views, opinions and perspectives are welcome. Pre-register here: https://bit.ly/3wUeS7H