"The foundation of my recovery was built upon the sacred space that Mariposa Lodge provided — a place dedicated to women detoxing and recovering. Within Mariposa’s empowering atmosphere, I could finally be vulnerable, exposed, raw, honest, and a broken mother. In moments when my addiction became a matter of life or death, I held onto the hope that it was almost over — because I knew I had a safe place to go. This sanctuary was where I could lay my armor down and be poured into, preparing me for the fight of my life.  Free from the pressure of silencing myself in the presence of men, I didn’t have to be distracted or subject to the same dynamic that contributed to my trauma in the first place. Instead, I was able to focus fully on my recovery and healing."

-Graciela Ziegler: Former Mariposa Resident

The Problem


Mariposa Lodge is currently Santa Clara County's only accessible detox and residential treatment center exclusively for women. A new contract now threatens to transform this facility into a co-ed program, jeopardizing the safe and nurturing environment that has been instrumental for countless women seeking recovery. 

The Community’s Concerns


This isn’t just my story — it’s a community issue. Women and advocates across Santa Clara County are speaking out:

“Turning Mariposa into a co-ed model furthers trauma for women who are escaping domestic violence situations. This is especially concerning in dealing with men who are detoxing and have the potential for violence.” 

-Concerned Community Member            

“Transforming Mariposa Lodge into a co-ed facility not only disregards the specific needs of women in recovery but also reflects poorly on Santa Clara County's commitment to preserving spaces essential for women’s healing." 

-Anonymous 

“We weren't expecting this; we are going to be HIT HARD." 

-Santa Clara County Healthcare Provider 

“The closing down of Mariposa as a women-only treatment facility, whether temporary or permanent, disproportionately affects women of a lower economic status or who are justice-involved." 

-Woman Advocate, in Recovery

“My prayers are with everyone currently affected by this, and for the women who won't get the same opportunity I did.” 

-Grateful Mariposa Graduate                                                                      

“The women who work at Mariposa do not have jobs, THEY SAVE LIVES." 

-Mariposa Alumni 

The Solution 

Please join us in urging Santa Clara County to investigate this decision and support our community effort to preserve Mariposa Lodge as a critical resource for women seeking recovery.

Help generate awareness among the Community and our Community Leaders to support changing this decision so that it serves the women and families in need. 

Sign this petition to protect the sanctity and purpose of Mariposa Lodge, and to advocate for the needs of women in our community because “WOMEN MATTER" & "WE DO RECOVER."

Please use #SAVEMARIPOSALODGE

Across Social Media Platforms & Share with 2-3 friends to assist with our Urgent Outreach Attempt.

"WHY?"

Women facing addiction need a space where they can be vulnerable and open without the distractions or pressures that mixed-gender environments can introduce. For many, this is not merely a preference but a necessity—particularly for survivors of domestic violence. A co-ed setting might silence these women, deter them from seeking help, or cause them unnecessary stress and anxiety. This ultimately risks more overdoses, relapses, prolonged waitlists, and program dropouts.

Link to read Testimonies of former Mariposa Residents:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AHalYWqQ6ZageeqEnqWnkT55Fr_42t26QcslSV7herk/edit?tab=t.0

Call to Action

Upcoming Protest! September 11, 2025 / Gather @ 4 pm! (4-8 pm)

Location: 70 West Hedding Street, San Jose, CA 95110

We will be protesting outside during both of the following meetings. I encourage community members, employees, and anyone who feels they can add to our "WHY,'' to join the Human Rights meetings in person or scroll down below to speak via Zoom or telephone & submit a written public comment.

If you see any future commission or committee meetings that you believe should be notified about this decision, please feel free to submit public comments or reach out directly to them. Everything helps. 

Meeting #1: Human Rights Commission 

— Social Equity Committee Meeting

[Inside the Board of Supervisors Chambers, 70 W Hedding St]

Date & Time: Thursday, September 11, 2025 5:30 PM

Meeting#2: Human Rights Commission

— Human Rights Regular Meeting 

Date & Time: Thursday, September 11, 2025 — 6:30 PM 

[Inside the Board of Supervisors Chambers, 70 West Hedding St]

LOOKING FOR COMMUNITY SPEAKERS & WRITTEN COMMENTS 9/11        Here is the Link for the Agenda to Speak & Comment @ The Human Rights Commission's Regular Meeting 9/11 @ 6:30 pm & Zoom Link

Meeting Agenda Instructions 

http://sccgov.iqm2.com/Citizens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=14&ID=15089&Inline=True

Joining By Zoom? (recommended)

https://app.zoom.us/wc/87383393857/join?fromPWA=1

Joining by Phone?

(669) 219-2599
meeting 873 8339 3857# (participant ID not required)

Organized by Graciela Ziegler 

If you want to help do not hesitate to contact me at:

(408)581-8574, Gracielaziegler1125@gmail.com FB:GracieZiegler/IG:@Graciezig