The San Antonio City Council meeting on June 5, 2025, featured a poignant discussion regarding the legacy of Jonathan Joss, a beloved figure in the Native American community, following his recent death. Community members expressed their grief and emphasized the need for deeper healing and resource allocation for marginalized groups in the city.

During the meeting, a representative from the American Indian community addressed the council, highlighting the impact of Joss's work in raising Native visibility and the struggles faced by Indigenous people in San Antonio. The speaker pointed out that Joss's death could have been avoided and called for a reevaluation of how the city supports its diverse communities, particularly those that are often overlooked.

The representative criticized the city’s Department of Equity for underreporting the Native American population, stating that while the department accounts for only 1,800 individuals, research suggests there are approximately 65,000 Native Americans living in San Antonio. This discrepancy raises concerns about the adequacy of resources and support available to these communities.

The speaker urged city leaders to prioritize advocacy and resource allocation, not just in terms of funding but also in understanding the unique needs of marginalized populations. They stressed that the community's needs are significant and that the lack of resources has real consequences, as exemplified by the tragic loss of Jonathan Joss.

The meeting underscored the importance of addressing the needs of all communities of color and the necessity for a compassionate approach to healing and support in San Antonio. The council was called upon to take actionable steps to ensure that such tragedies do not occur again and to foster a more inclusive environment for all residents.