Dear Members of the City Council,
AFSCME demanded to bargain over Juneteenth, we were hopeful that it was a straightforward request and relatively easy for all parties to agree on. The City of Menlo Park already declared it a holiday, issuing a statement on its importance. We recognize our demand is during a closed contract to which the City has no obligation to respond to. We did appreciate the willingness to discuss but are disappointed in the response. The City responded saying they were concerned about another closer for City residents. We would like to now point out that even Atherton and Redwood City closed to observe the day.
The Holiday, as then Mayor Taylor, said in the City proclamation it is a day of celebration and an opportunity to learn about Black Heritage. It goes without saying that it is hard to truly live in the spirit of the proclamation if it is not actually a holiday where members can be off to partake in Juneteenth celebrations that have sprung up in the Bay Area. However, it is not considered an observed holiday by Menlo Park for staff. The City’s most recent proclamation actions continue to be counter to even the most recent proclamation. We hope that the City will reconsider their position and retroactively observe Juneteenth and ensure that will be observed from here on out.
We look forward to your response and are hopeful that you all will do the right thing.
Sincerely,
Ashley Mates
Union Representative
AFSCME Local 829
CC: Whit Loy, AFSCME 829 Chapter President
Ryan Shannon, AFSCME 829, President
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