HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-17-2023_Open Session_General Comment_Fernandez, Joanna_RedactedFrom: on behalf of Joanna Fernandez
To:CityClerkDepartment
Subject:Public Comment: Stop Citations for Street Vendors and Day Laborers
Date:Wednesday, May 17, 2023 1:58:29 PM
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Dear SB Public Comment,
My name is Joanna Fernandez and I am emailing you in support of our Street Vendor and Day Laborer
communities. I urge you to pass an Emergency Ordinance to stop citations until the City can produce sustainable
solutions through the San Bernardino Worker Center.
It is shameful that despite the passing of state-wide legislation (SB 972) supporting the rights of street vendors, the
city and police continue to criminalize small businesses who are residents of San Bernardino and contribute to the
local economy.
The case Comite de Jornaleros de Redondo Beach V. City of Redondo Beach established that Day Laborers’ right to
solicit work is protected by the First Amendment. Workers have established the right to seek work as Day Laborers,
and yet, these workers continue to be intimidated and cited by local code and law enforcement.
We call on the San Bernardino Police and Code Enforcement to stop all enforcement operations immediately until
the city and community work collaboratively to provide viable solutions. Additionally, the City Council should
amend its code and remove enforcement power from the Police who have proven that their goal is to further
criminalize communities of color.
Sincerely,
Ms. Joanna Fernandez