Ceremonial Application Instructions

Office of Councilmember Bien Doan

An official commendation or proclamation from the Mayor and Council is a special honor to the people who receive them. Many recipients proudly display the plaque in a lobby display case, or hang it in a place of honor in the office or home.

Commendations

Commendations are an opportunity to praise an individual or organization for their unique contributions to the City of San José, often upon the occasion of an event or a milestone. These are signed by the entire City Council.

Proclamations

Proclamations allow organizations to designate a day, week, or month as an event to raise awareness for an issue that has effect on San José residents. Proclamations are not given after the fact – choose a Council date before the date of desired recognition. Please note: the City typically does not present Proclamations for celebrities or standalone events.

Recognitions

Recognitions are an opportunity to praise an individual or organization for their unique contributions to the City of San José, often upon the occasion of an event or a milestone. They are not signed by the entire City Council.

Adjournments

An adjournment is an opportunity for the City Council to honor a community member for their contributions to San José. Honorees must have a direct connection to the City.

Invocations

Invocations are the first item on the Council agenda and should be brief, thoughtful and appropriate for the occasion. Over the course of the year invocations are expected to reflect the diversity of San José.