Signal Hill Honors Ron Settles' Legacy While Celebrating Diversity, Inclusion & Community Unity

Reflection, remembrance, and hope filled the outside terrace as residents, civic leaders, students, and community advocates gathered for the 2026 Signal Hill Diversity Breakfast and Ron Settles Remembrance Day.

The annual event was hosted by Signal Hill's Diversity Coalition Committee, whose members worked throughout the year to create a meaningful program that honored the legacy of Ron Settles while celebrating the city's cultural diversity and community spirit. Committee members include Pam Hues, Harshan Jeyakumar, Mary Gonzalez, Diana Phillips, Jennifer Arzate, Gege Lopez, Samona Caldwell, Lupe Perez, Charisma Justice, and Lisa Wong.

Held on the 45th anniversary of Ron Settles' death while in police custody, the event served as both a solemn remembrance and a celebration of the diverse community that Signal Hill continues to become. Throughout the morning, speakers shared stories of resilience, belonging, and perseverance while encouraging residents to help shape a more inclusive future.

Remembering a Tragedy That Sparked Change Pastor Juanita Matthews, Ron Settles' aunt, reflected on the family's decades-long journey for answers and justice. Her message reminded attendees that while pain from the past remains, so does the power of hope and community healing.

"Love never fails. Never stop working for change," was among the messages that resonated throughout the gathering.

Ron Settles' death in 1981 remains one of the most significant and painful events in Signal Hill's history. For many residents, remembering his story is an opportunity not only to honor his life but also to recognize how far the community has come.

Speakers noted Signal Hill's transformation over the past four decades, highlighting ongoing efforts to create a city where all residents feel welcomed, valued, and heard.

Mayor Tina Hansen and other city officials reaffirmed the city's commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility through community programs, library services, outreach initiatives, and civic engagement opportunities.

Personal Stories Bring Powerful Perspective One of the most moving aspects of the event was the sharing of personal experiences that illustrated the importance of inclusion and community support.

Danesha, a local student volunteer, delivered a heartfelt poem exploring themes of belonging, identity, and the impact of microaggressions. Her words challenged attendees to consider what it means to truly see and value one another.

The audience also heard from Mary González, a first-generation college graduate whose story of overcoming adversity inspired many in attendance. González spoke about the importance of education, mentorship, perseverance, and public service in helping individuals rise above obstacles.

Her story served as a reminder that opportunities created through community support can have a lasting impact on future generations.

Pastor Matthews provided a deeply personal perspective as she recounted the pain experienced by the Settles family and the determination that has sustained them through more than four decades of seeking justice and healing.

Together, the speakers demonstrated how individual experiences can strengthen collective understanding and help bridge differences within a community.

Residents Share Their Vision for Signal Hill The event was not limited to reflection. Organizers encouraged attendees to participate in conversations about the future of Signal Hill and share ideas for making the city even more welcoming and accessible.

Community members offered a variety of suggestions, including improved accessibility for residents with mobility challenges, enhanced pedestrian safety measures, more cultural programming for the city's growing Latin American population, stronger connections between seniors and youth, and the development of a community swimming pool for residents of all ages.

Several participants emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for intergenerational mentorship, allowing older residents to share their experiences and knowledge with younger generations. Others stressed the need for continued outreach efforts to ensure all residents feel represented and engaged in civic life.

Hands-On Activities Promote Inclusion Beyond speeches and discussions, attendees participated in interactive activities designed to reinforce the event's message of unity and belonging.

Community members created buttons featuring messages promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Participants also responded to questions about how Signal Hill can continue fostering an environment where people from all backgrounds feel respected and welcomed.

The activities encouraged meaningful conversations among residents who may not have otherwise met, helping strengthen relationships and build new connections across the community.

Update Provided in Ron Settles Investigation During the program, Detective Mark McGuire provided an update regarding the investigation into Ron Settles' death.

According to the update, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office recently sent a formal letter to the Settles family summarizing the status of the investigation and expressing a willingness to review any new evidence that may emerge.

While the case remains unresolved, family members now have official confirmation regarding the investigation's status after decades of uncertainty.

Looking Forward Together As the event concluded, attendees were encouraged to continue sharing Ron Settles' story, participate in community programs, and remain engaged in efforts that promote equity, safety, and inclusion.

Guests were also invited to visit the "History of Riches" room at the Signal Hill Library, located on the former site of the Signal Hill Jail, where a memorial honoring Ron Settles stands as a reminder of both the city's past and its commitment to a better future.

The breakfast demonstrated that remembrance and progress are not opposing ideas. By honoring history, listening to diverse voices, and encouraging community participation, Signal Hill continues building a future rooted in understanding, respect, and unity.

Forty-five years after a tragedy that helped shape the city's identity, residents gathered not only to remember Ron Settles, but also to reaffirm a shared belief that every person deserves to belong, be heard, and have the opportunity to help shape the community they call home.