ACR 166: State of Zacatecas: sister-state relationship.

WHEREAS, The State of California and the State of Zacatecas, Mexico, share deep historical, cultural, and human connections, strengthened over generations by families, workers, and students who have built enduring communities on both sides of the border; and

WHEREAS, Zacatecas is home to one of Mexico’s largest diaspora communities in California, with Zacatecan clubs and federations serving as pillars of civic engagement, education, and cultural exchange that enrich the social fabric of our state, including vibrant communities across the Los Angeles region, the central valley, and the east bay area of northern California, including the County of Contra Costa; and

WHEREAS, The State of Zacatecas, historically recognized as Mexico’s leading producer of silver and other strategic minerals, is now diversifying its economy through investments in advanced manufacturing, automotive supply chains, renewable energy, and agricultural innovation sectors that complement California’s leadership in clean technology, sustainable agriculture, and scientific research; and

WHEREAS, Zacatecas has undertaken major infrastructure and industrial development projects, including new industrial parks near Calera and Fresnillo, to attract international investment and strengthen North American supply chains; and

WHEREAS, The Historic Centre of Zacatecas, designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as a World Heritage Site, stands as a symbol of artistic excellence and cultural resilience, reflecting values shared by the people of California in their own creative industries and commitment to cultural diversity; and

WHEREAS, The people of California and the people of Zacatecas share a deep commitment to education, family, and opportunity, exemplified through scholarship programs, community leadership initiatives, and academic partnerships that link Zacatecan and Californian students; and

WHEREAS, Both states recognize the urgent importance of sustainability and environmental responsibility, and see in one another potential partners for cooperative research and innovation in renewable energy, responsible mining, and water resource management; and

WHEREAS, A formal sister state relationship will strengthen cooperation in areas including education, workforce development, culture, environmental stewardship, humanitarian collaboration, and economic exchange, building upon decades of people-to-people connections; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby expresses its intent to formalize a sister state relationship between the State of Zacatecas in Mexico and the State of California, in recognition of their shared heritage, economic opportunities, and mutual commitment to prosperity, dignity, and understanding; and be it further

Resolved, That it is the intent of the Legislature through this sister state relationship with the State of Zacatecas to expand opportunities for trade, investment, and clean energy collaboration that benefit both economies; to promote sustained goodwill and cooperation between the elected leaders and civic institutions of both states; to encourage academic, cultural, and artistic exchanges between universities, museums, and community organizations; to strengthen ties between Zacatecan diaspora communities in California, including those in the City of Los Angeles and other parts of southern California, the San Francisco Bay area, and the central valley, and their home state; to promote joint initiatives in sustainability, education, and innovation that advance the well-being of all citizens; and to encourage cooperative efforts between Californian and Zacatecan agencies, community organizations, and consular networks to facilitate services, social reintegration, and economic opportunities for Zacatecan nationals who have lived in California and are repatriated or have returned voluntarily to their communities, ensuring humane treatment, workforce development support, and family reunification; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.