I was encouraged to see so many Healdsburg residents turn out to the No Kings rally (March 24). I believe this speaks volumes about how deeply our community cares and how willing people are to show up for one another.
For me, being present was not optional. While I attended as an individual, my role on the City Council carries a profound responsibility to do everything I can to protect and support our community. The decisions being made in Washington are not distant or theoretical. They are directly impacting Healdsburg through funding cuts and broader efforts that challenge our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
I agree we are fortunate to live in a place as special as Healdsburg, but I see that less as privilege and more as a reflection of a community that actively chooses to engage, support one another and stand up for shared values. The strong turnout is clear evidence of that spirit.
On a personal level, I did not anticipate the extent of the challenges we are now facing—from threats to fundamental rights and freedoms, to renewed conflict abroad, to the erosion of protections many of us once believed were settled. I am particularly concerned about the future of our democracy, the well-being of our Latino community and the continued protection of women’s rights. Moving backward on issues like a woman’s right to choose is deeply troubling. These are not abstract policy debates—they are real, immediate impacts felt by our neighbors every day. They are shaping the fabric of our community and affecting the lives of our residents in tangible ways.
As both a community member and a council member, I remain committed to listening, engaging and doing everything I can to ensure Healdsburg continues to be a place where all people feel safe, valued and represented.
Eveyln Mitchell
Healdsburg City Council
That surprises me when you say you are so concerned about citizens feelings safe, valued, and represented.
I’m a 40 year resident of Healdsburg. From what I have observed those three things are not evidenced in the way the council has voted in the last 5 years. Specifically since this council has been in place. It’s not been a democratic process by any means. The record shows council all vote together according to their concenses of opinion. Not for the representation of their constituents. It’s become standard operating procedure. Actions speak louder th words. Let’s see if this is a better year for demonstrating what you say is so important to you.