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As a Latino leader, I wanted to make you aware of a very grave scenario unfolding across the street from Stanford's Redwood City campus in North Fair Oaks (NFO). Stanford, through its continuing real estate development, is causing gentrification of an economically disadvantaged, minority community (73% Latino). In its desire to build for the future, Stanford has displaced minority-owned businesses, and a non-profit that has been serving this community for 17 years.

This displacement and apparent lack of community regard, could negatively impact Stanford's reputation in this community for years to come. I do not believe this is Stanford’s intent, and I reach out to you to make sure that Stanford is fully aware of the impact of its actions.

Stanford and Generations United have been partners and have had until this time, a good standing relationship. My staff and I have attempted to discuss this gentrification and have provided Stanford staff with multiple recommendations on how to be a better partner with the community. However, our outreach to date has been met with a lack of authority to deviate from the planned projects in North Fair Oaks. It is not our belief that Stanford does not care about equity, justice, minorities and economically disadvantaged persons – but believe that we simply have not met with persons at Stanford that can alter the scope of these projects now that their significant effects on the community have become clear.

We believe that you may be a person that DOES care about this vibrant but challenged community. As a Latino person of influence and community leader, we are reaching out to you to let you know.

Would you lend your voice and expertise to reach out to your contacts at the highest levels and help Stanford to be a good community partner for the North Fair Oaks community?

The attached document outlines what we are asking for on behalf of the NFO community. You will notice that many of these suggestions take the form of expanding access to parts of the beautiful Redwood City campus and would create little or no direct expense to Stanford.

My contact information is below, and I encourage your advocacy, a visit to the neighborhood, a call, or a coffee meeting right away.

With appreciation,

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My hero 🫶🏻. Professor at my law school alma mater.

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