A Long Beach commission has unanimously endorsed a set of recommendations aimed at addressing concerns about the treatment of Black city employees. The vote follows years of testimony from workers and community advocates who say discrimination, unequal treatment, and fear of retaliation continue to affect Black employees despite the city’s public commitment to racial equity.
The recommendations are advisory, and the next decision rests with the Long Beach City Council, which will determine whether to move forward with the proposed measures.
During a July 1 meeting, the Long Beach Equity & Human Relations Commission (EHRC) voted unanimously to support recommendations developed by the Coalition Against Anti-Blackness (CAAB) and the Long Beach Black Worker Center.
The proposals focus on improving hiring, promotions, workplace culture, disciplinary practices, transparency, and accountability within the city’s workforce.
Supporters say the recommendations provide a structured framework for addressing concerns that Black employees have raised over several years.
Testimony
Several current and former workers, along with community members, spoke during the commission meeting about their experiences and concerns.
Dana Nickerson, who leads the Long Beach Black Worker Center, urged city leaders to move beyond discussions and establish a clearer line of communication with workers seeking change.
Anthony Holmes, founder of the Coalition Against Anti-Blackness and a city refuse department employee, told commissioners that some workers fear retaliation if they publicly report workplace concerns.
Other speakers discussed issues they believe affect Black employees, including hiring opportunities, workplace culture, and equal treatment.
Recommendations
The commission’s support centers on a roadmap proposed by community organizations.
| Focus Area | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Hiring | Improve fairness and transparency |
| Promotions | Expand equitable advancement opportunities |
| Discipline | Review disciplinary practices |
| Accountability | Increase oversight and reporting |
| Workplace Culture | Address discrimination and retaliation concerns |
The recommendations are intended to guide future city policies rather than immediately change existing procedures.
Community
Community members also addressed the commission, emphasizing the broader impact of workplace equity.
Melissa Morgan, a former city employee who previously worked with the commission, called for stronger protections against retaliation and proposed creating a Truth, Reconciliation and Accountability Commission.
Dr. Lydia Holly referenced previous city racial equity initiatives, arguing that long-standing concerns require measurable action rather than additional study.
Other residents said creating an equitable workplace benefits the entire community.
City Response
Commission Chair Joshua De Leon noted that a formal recommendation supporting the coalition’s action plan had previously been sent to Mayor Rex Richardson and the City Council.
The commission’s unanimous vote reinforces that recommendation and places the matter before elected officials for consideration.
Commission members indicated that the focus should now shift toward implementation, measurement, transparency, and accountability.
Next Steps
The Long Beach City Council is expected to consider the recommendations as part of future policy discussions.
The city’s budget meetings begin on July 29 and will include opportunities for public comment. Community members and advocacy groups are expected to continue urging city leaders to prioritize workplace equity initiatives as budget and policy decisions move forward.
The commission’s vote does not create new city policy, but it represents a formal recommendation that city officials consider additional measures related to workplace equity for Black employees.
FAQs
What did the commission approve?
It backed recommendations addressing workplace equity.
Who proposed the action plan?
The Coalition Against Anti-Blackness and Black Worker Center.
Does the vote change city policy?
No. The recommendations are advisory.
Who decides the next step?
The Long Beach City Council.
When are the budget meetings?
They are scheduled to begin on July 29.
