About RICH CITY
At RICH CITY (RCR), our work is rooted in the belief that everyone residing in Richmond – especially Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities – deserves equitable access to safe, healthy, and vibrant neighborhoods. RCR is committed to dismantling the systemic barriers created by structural racism, disinvestment, and environmental injustice that have long marginalized these communities.
Our values are reflected in the following:
- Equity and Justice: We strive to operationalize racial equity and mobility justice in Richmond, California by empowering residents to take ownership of the transportation planning process while advocating for policies that ensure safe, affordable, and sustainable travel options for everyone.
- Community Empowerment: We believe in building power from within. Through coalition-building and community organizing, we aim to create a strong base of residents who are participants and leaders in advocating for green space, food justice, and mobility justice. We refuse to accept direct funding from entities like the Chevron Refinery, whose operations have historically harmed our communities.
- Youth Leadership: We are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders through youth-led and supported mobility justice education programs. By providing opportunities for mentorship, skills development, and job readiness, we ensure that our youth are equipped to lead the fight against environmental racism and climate change.
- Environmental Stewardship: We are committed to transforming Richmond into a city where parks, green spaces, and sustainable transportation options are accessible to all. Our programs and advocacy efforts aim to address the environmental injustices that have led to health disparities and reduced quality of life for Black and Brown residents.
- Collaboration and Innovation: We understand that lasting change requires collaboration. As a founding member of the Richmond Our Power Coalition and a partner in the Climate Justice Alliance, we work with local and national organizations to model a Just Transition. Together, we aim to build resilient and regenerative economies that prioritize the needs of frontline communities.
- Solidarity with Oppressed Peoples: We stand in unwavering solidarity with all oppressed peoples, both locally and globally. Our work is guided by a deep commitment to social justice, and we actively support movements that fight for the rights and dignity of marginalized communities. We believe true liberation is collective and the struggles of challenged communities are interconnected.
- Support for Reparations: We advocate for reparations for the descendants of enslaved Black Americans as a critical step toward addressing the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Black communities. We support efforts to repair the generational harm caused by systemic racism. We are actively working towards a future where these descendants receive the recognition, compensation, and opportunities they rightfully deserve.
- Integrity and Accountability: We hold ourselves accountable to the communities we serve. Our commitment to not accepting direct funding from the Chevron Refinery ensures that our work remains aligned with our values. It ensures we are free from influences and entities that do not prioritize the well-being of our residents.
- Community Health and Healing. Our commitment to community health and healing is at the heart of our mission. We recognize that health extends beyond physical well-being to encompass emotional, mental, and social dimensions. By promoting access to holistic health resources, mental health support, and wellness programs, we aim to address the systemic barriers that disproportionately affect our communities.
RICH CITY