At the City Council meeting on May 12, 2025, the Rockville Mayor and Council are set to issue seventeen proclamations—yes, seventeen—covering everything from public service and health awareness to historic preservation and cultural celebrations.

Here’s what’s being recognized:

1. National Public Service Recognition Week (May 4–10)
2. National Police Week (May 11–17)
3. Women’s Health Week (May 11–17)
4. Taiwanese American Heritage Week (May 11–18)
5. National Public Works Week (May 19–23)
6. National Kids to Parks Day (May 17)
7. Greek Genocide Remembrance Day (May 19)
8. ALS Awareness Month
9. Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
10. Building Safety Month
11. National Bicycle Awareness Month
12. Jewish American Heritage Month
13. Lyme Disease Awareness Month
14. Mental Health Awareness Month
15. Older Americans Month
16. National Preservation Month
17. Stroke Awareness Month

Each of these proclamations represents a worthwhile cause or celebration—some with deep relevance to our city. From recognizing the contributions of older adults and public works employees, to celebrating heritage communities and raising awareness for health issues, the topics are both timely and important.

But when so many proclamations are issued in a single night, it’s hard for any one to stand out. And for Rockville’s residents and businesses, the question becomes: how does this affect me?

Proclamations are meant to raise awareness—but they only make an impact when they connect to real life. What if Kids to Parks Day included a family event in a local park? What if Building Safety Month featured tips for homeowners and landlords? What if Mental Health Awareness Month highlighted services from city or county providers? What if Preservation Month showcased Rockville’s historic buildings and neighborhoods? These proclamations could spark action, build community, and strengthen local engagement. Right now, they risk being little more than ceremonial.

Local businesses and organizations can help make proclamations more than paper. If your work aligns with any of these topics—health care, education, public safety, senior services, construction, heritage, or parks—this is an opportunity to share your story, host or sponsor an event, or collaborate with the city on future campaigns.

Rockville’s leaders clearly care about honoring the people, histories, and issues that shape our community. But let’s not stop at words. Proclamations should start a conversation—not end one. My suggestion is that the City should only issue proclamations if there’s a local organization that’s offering a related public event, activity, or program in Rockville within 30 days–otherwise this is just a meaningless performance.