To: Board of Supervisors
From: Shanelle Scales-Preston, District V Supervisor
Report Title: RECOGNIZE Nancy Parent as an honoree of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors inaugural International Women’s Day, as recommended by Supervisor Scales-Preston
☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee
RECOMMENDATIONS:
RECOGNIZE Nancy Parent as an honoree of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors inaugural International Women’s Day, as recommended by Supervisor Scales-Preston.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None
BACKGROUND:
International Women’s Day (IWD) is observed annually on March 8 to recognize the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and to promote continued progress toward gender equality. The observance originated in the early 20th century during labor and social movements in North America and Europe that advocated for improved working conditions, voting rights, and greater opportunities for women. The first National Woman’s Day was held in the United States in 1909, and the concept of an annual International Women’s Day was proposed in 1910 at the International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen. The first international observance took place in 1911 across several European countries.
March 8 became the permanent date following demonstrations by Russian women in 1917 advocating for “bread and peace.” In 1975, the United Nations formally recognized and began celebrating International Women’s Day, helping establish it as a global observance.
The 2026 theme, “Give To Gain,” highlights the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and support in advancing gender equality. Today, International Women’s Day serves both as a celebration of women’s contributions and as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to ensure equal opportunities and representation for women in all sectors of society.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
The suggested nominee will not be able to be recognized as the inaugural District V International Women’s Day honoree.
The Board of Supervisors of Contra Costa County, California
body
IN THE MATTER OF RECOGNIZING NANCY PARENT AS AN HONOREE OF THE CONTRA COSTA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS INAUGURAL INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2026
WHEREAS, Nancy Parent was born in Pittsburg and pursued her education locally at Pittsburg High School before attending the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of California, San Francisco School of Law, preparing for a career of public service and leadership; and
WHEREAS, in 1976, Nancy Parent returned to Pittsburg to begin her law practice, demonstrating a deep commitment to her community, and that same year was elected as Trustee of the Pittsburg Unified School District, marking the beginning of a distinguished career in civic service; and
WHEREAS, in 1982, Nancy Parent made history as the first woman elected to the Pittsburg City Council and subsequently became the first female mayor, paving the way for future generations of women leaders, and she served a total of sixteen years on the City Council dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all Pittsburg residents; and
WHEREAS, for the past six years, Nancy Parent has served as the City Treasurer, providing dedicated leadership, stewardship of public resources, and a commitment to transparency and accountability in municipal governance; and
WHEREAS, throughout her career, Nancy Parent has been actively engaged in civic and community organizations, including the Pittsburg Women’s Community League, Soroptimist International of Pittsburg, and as a co-founder of Elected Women of Contra Costa County, exemplifying her enduring dedication to supporting women in leadership and fostering civic engagement across the region; and
WHEREAS, Nancy Parent’s groundbreaking contributions and lifelong commitment to public service were recognized in 2010 when she was inducted into the Contra Costa County Women’s Hall of Fame, an honor celebrating her exceptional leadership and lasting impact on the community; and
WHEREAS, Nancy Parent’s achievements serve as an inspiring example of how dedication, perseverance, and advocacy can transform communities and empower individuals, reflecting the spirit and mission of International Women’s Day to celebrate women’s contributions and advance gender equity; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors hereby honors and commends Nancy Parent for her extraordinary leadership, unwavering dedication to public service, and tireless advocacy for women and families in the community; and expresses its deepest gratitude for her invaluable service and recognizes her as a trailblazer whose work continues to inspire and uplift the citizens of Pittsburg and Contra Costa County.