In Santa Cruz, local government officials believe that community well-being is not simply influenced by individual choices but by the interactions of many factors, including the decisions and policies of local government. Learn from officials about the adoption and integration of a Health in All Policies (HiAP) framework, its role in addressing disparities, and its potential for promoting social equity. Participate in an interactive Q&A session where we delve into strategies for cultivating healthier communities statewide. Gain valuable takeaways including tools and local government’s operations to identify where the pillars of equity, health, and sustainability are evident or lacking, including specific departments, actions, and potential opportunities for improvement.
Speakers:
Shebreh Kalantari-Jonhson
Councilmember Shebreh Kalantari-Johnson has a deeply rooted commitment to equity and inclusion, and she is dedicated to serving her community and addressing the systemic barriers that hinder progress and opportunity for all. Councilmember Kalantari-Johnson fled post-revolution Iran with her family at seven years old, seeking refuge in the United States. She embarked on a journey of resilience and determination from a young age. Driven by the injustices of gender, class, and religious disparities witnessed during her formative years, Councilmember Kalantari-Johnson has made equity and inclusion the guiding principles of her work. Shebreh has a Masters’ in Social Work and provides professional grant writing, strategic planning, leadership workshops and coaching services to agencies working in the areas of public health, education and social services. She is also the co-founder of Impact Launch, a social enterprise supporting organizations to work more effectively for equitable and sustainable outcomes. While serving on Santa Cruz City Council since December 2020, Councilmember Kalantari-Johnson recognizes that true progress is achieved when disparities are confronted, and the entire community is elevated, which is one big reason she serves on the Health in All Policies subcommittee!
Martine Watkins
Councilmember Martine Watkins is a seasoned community organizer who is strongly dedicated to Santa Cruz, where she grew up. Currently serving as the Local Government and Business Affairs Senior Manager at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, she brings extensive experience in policy development and community engagement. Councilmember Watkins’s tenure on the Santa Cruz City Council since 2016, including terms as Mayor and Vice Mayor, reflects her commitment to shaping policies that promote a safe, vibrant, and sustainable City. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Policy from the Panetta Institute and is skilled in crafting transparent and data-informed policies through collaborative processes. Throughout her career, Councilmember Watkins has advised organizations focused on supporting children, women, and families, demonstrating her dedication to community well-being. As a councilmember, she prioritizes preserving the environment, promoting safe neighborhoods, creating economic opportunities, providing affordable housing and childcare, and supporting safety nets for older adults. Councilmember Watkins’s dedication to inclusivity and forward-thinking principles underscores her role as an advocate for Santa Cruz. Notably, Councilmember Watkins took the lead in championing the Health in All Policies initiative during her tenure as Mayor, demonstrating her proactive stance towards community well-being and holistic policy-making. As the first biracial Black woman on the City Council and later as Mayor, she is dedicated to fostering diversity and representation in local government.
Sonja Brunner
Councilmember Sonja Brunner has been a dedicated resident of Santa Cruz for over 30 years, deeply committed to serving her community. As a Santa Cruz City Council member, she brings a wealth of experience and a passion for addressing the city’s most pressing issues. Throughout her City Council tenure, including serving as Vice Mayor and Mayor, Councilmember Brunner has prioritized supporting local businesses, promoting affordable housing, and advocating for public safety and environmental sustainability. Her background in Liberal Studies from Cabrillo College and her experience as a bilingual, multicultural community organizer informs her policymaking approach. As a single working mother who raised her daughter in Santa Cruz, Councilmember Brunner understands the challenges facing families firsthand. She is dedicated to finding solutions that benefit all residents, including initiatives to improve childcare options, promote racial and social equity, support the arts and culture, and address climate change.