In a historic vote on July 15, 2020, The Ventura City Council voted unanimously to remove both statues of Junipero Serra from inside City Hall, as well as outside in front of City Hall. We would like to thank the entire community, with special recognition given to the Chumash community, for their help in removing this symbol of slavery, oppression, and genocide that has been plaguing our city for far too long.
This is what happens when the people come together to dismantle systems of oppression. Let's not stop here, we must continue focusing our efforts on the Ventura Unified School District and the two Elementary school name changes, Junipero Serra and Blanche Reynolds, including the need for expanded curriculum with diverse & anti-racism narratives.
Please continue to share the petition and follow our efforts on FB here and on Instagram here.
Here is a link to the official City of Ventura press release regarding the update: https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/2449
Coverage of the historic vote also covered locally:
VC Reporter
We’ve just passed 10,878 signatures on our petition! If enough of us sign we can’t be ignored! Here’s a link to share https://www.change.org/p/ventura-city-council-removal-of-father-serra-statues-name-change-of-schools
Thank you so much for your continued support! Our community is what we make it.
Cover photo: Erich Schaffer