To: Board of Supervisors
From: Supervisor Natalie Arroyo and Supervisor Steve Madrone
Agenda Section: Consent
Vote Requirement: Majority
SUBJECT:
title
Proclamation Supporting Access to Healthcare and Resources for Two-Spirit, Transgender, Gender Nonconforming and Intersex People in Humboldt County
end
RECOMMENDATION(S):
Recommendation
That the Board of Supervisors:
1. Adopt the proclamation.
Body
STRATEGIC PLAN:
This action supports the following areas of your Board’s Strategic Plan.
Area of Focus: Safe & Healthy Communities
Strategic Plan Category: 1002- Remove barriers to quality healthcare
DISCUSSION:
This proclamation affirms Humboldt County’s ongoing commitment to equity, safety and dignity for individuals who are two-spirit, transgender, gender non-conforming and intersex (2S/TGI). It recognizes the historical and cultural presence of gender diverse people in the region, including the Wiyot term “gou’mel,” and the valuable contributions 2S/TGI community members make to public institutions and broader society.
Across the nation, state legislatures have introduced a record number of bills that restrict the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, including attempts to limit access to gender-affirming care and education. These efforts disproportionately affect people who are 2S/TGI and contribute to negative mental and physical health outcomes, particularly among youth. Humboldt County’s own 2S/LGBTQIA+ School Climate Survey highlights the tangible effects of these policies, including reports of unsafe school environments, housing insecurity and deteriorating mental health.
This proclamation aligns with the priorities of the Humboldt County Community Health Improvement Plan, which identifies suicide prevention and housing instability as key public health challenges. It also acknowledges protections under California law, such as SB 107, which safeguard the rights of individuals seeking or providing gender-affirming healthcare within the state.
Through this proclamation, the Board formally reaffirms the county’s stance against discrimination and hate, and its commitment to uphold the rights, safety and privacy of 2S/TGI individuals. It recognizes gender-affirming healthcare and related support services as essential and expresses the county’s dedication to ensuring access to these services for all residents and visitors.
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
General Fund
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no financial impact in presenting a proclamation.
STAFFING IMPACT:
None
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
None
ALTERNATIVES TO STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:
None
ATTACHMENTS:
Proclamation
PREVIOUS ACTION/REFERRAL:
Meeting of: N/A
File No.: N/A