Perris Receives National League of Cities Award for Leadership in Cultural Diversity

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Perris Receives National League of Cities Award for Leadership in Cultural Diversity

PERRIS, Calif. (April 9, 2026) - The City of Perris has officially been named a first-place winner of the National League of Cities (NLC) 2026 City Cultural Diversity Awards. These annual awards recognize local governments that demonstrate leadership in developing creative, effective programs that drive innovation and promote community belonging.

Award submissions were grouped by city population size: 50,000 and under, 50,001-200,000, 200,001-500,000, and 500,001 or more and evaluated on creativity, community impact and program scope. Perris received the top honor in the 50,001-200,000 population category for its Arts, Culture, and Health Program.

The City's Arts, Culture, and Health Program expands access to public art, cultural programming, and wellness initiatives that reflect Perris' diverse community. Funded through the City's Public Art Development Impact Fee, the program supports murals, sculptures, youth initiatives, and community cultural events, while partnering with local artists, schools, and organizations to promote inclusion, strengthen community identity, and enhance overall resident well-being.

"This recognition reflects the heart of Perris, our people, our culture, and our commitment to building a community where everyone feels seen, valued, and connected," said Mayor Michael M. Vargas. "Through initiatives like our Arts, Culture, and Health Program, we are not only celebrating diversity but also investing in the well-being and unity of our residents. We are honored to be recognized on a national stage for work that is so deeply rooted in our community." Perris was one of four communities selected from dozens of applicants nationwide for the 2026 awards.

"Congratulations to Perris on receiving this year's NLC Cultural Diversity Award," said National League of Cities President Kevin Kramer, Councilmember, Louisville, Kentucky. "Now more than ever, it is essential that our residents feel included and supported. The City of Perris is a leading example of how local governments are delivering innovative approaches that build unity and strengthen resident connection."

Winners were recognized this March at NLC's Congressional City Conference in Washington, D.C., where more than 2,000 local leaders gather each year to engage on policy, learn from experts and amplify local issues at the federal level.

The National League of Cities (NLC) is the voice of America's cities, towns, and villages, representing more than 200 million people, and works to strengthen local leadership, influence federal policy, and drive innovative solutions that improve quality of life nationwide. The NLC City Cultural Diversity Awards recognize municipalities that demonstrate outstanding commitment to cultural inclusion, equity, and community engagement, highlighting programs that celebrate diversity, foster belonging, and strengthen connections among residents. For more information about the NLC City Cultural Diversity Award winners, visit https://www.nlc.org.

For additional information about the program and to learn about available opportunities for local artists and community based non-profit organizations, contact the Public Services Department at (951) 435-7206.

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