Social Justice Department Funding

At a glance

What: Funding for the City's Racial and Social Justice Department and its Racial and Social Justice Fund, in light of Fiscal Year 2027 staff cuts.
Where it stands: The Council approved a resolution (June 25, 2026) asking the administration to restore funding for the cut positions and the department's mission. On Tuesday, October 20, 2026 the Finance Committee recommended approval of $100,000 from the Racial and Social Justice Fund for the 2026 Community Grant Cycle, 4-0 (Councilor Strezo absent).
Next: full Council vote on the grant cycle appropriation.

May 28, 2026: Councilor Mbah's resolution asking the administration to list every position cut from the FY 2027 budget and explain how it fits the Mayor's equity agenda was approved.
June 25, 2026: Councilor Mbah's resolution (26-1135) to restore cut positions in the department was approved 11-0.
October 20, 2026: Catherine Nakato, Director of Racial and Social Justice, said the fund supports the City's commitment to social justice and links residents with government; grants focus on diversity, equity and inclusion, community engagement and training. Councilor Hardt asked whether individual grant amounts would be public; the City plans to publish funded projects and is considering amounts, and will document impact. In answer to Councilor Wheeler, organizations typically pay costs up front and are reimbursed on invoices, and the City is exploring up-front funding for groups that cannot front costs. Councilor Scott praised the fund.

$100,000 for the 2026 Community Grant Cycle recommended for approval, 4-0.

Resolution to restore cut positions approved 11-0.

Resolution asking for the list of cut positions approved.