Dear Friends,
Happy New Year! I hope that everyone ended 2017 on a high note and enjoyed their holidays with loved ones. As we embark on the second year of the legislative session, I am motivated to continue working on the issues I set out to address last year, as well as new issues brought to my attention by all of you this year. Moving forward, let us all map out our goals for 2018, while keeping in mind that there will be continuous challenges and hurdles to overcome. Nevertheless, if we all hold each other accountable and support the goals of those around us, I have no doubt California will continue to be the standard barrier of effective government.
In this issue, are a few of the events that did not make my winter newsletter. As always, I appreciate your engagement and I look forward to representing you in our state's Capitol.
64th Annual Compton Christmas Parade
On Saturday, December 9th in Compton, I joined Compton native and star of ABC's hit show, "Blackish," in the 64th Annual Compton Christmas parade. Mr. Anderson served as Grand Marshal of this year's event, which was themed, "Peace and Happiness for Every Child at Heart," focusing on community resources and individuals who help empower and cultivate the talents of youth in the Los Angeles area. It is clear he is someone who hasn't forgotten his roots.
The parade kicked off at 11:00a.m. with celebrities, media personalities, elected officials, marching bands, equestrians, dance troupes, cheer squads and local residents traveling west on Compton Boulevard from Bullis Road to Alameda Street. I want to thank the city of Compton for the plaque, and for recognizing my work in the community. Congratulations to the entire city of Compton for such a positive and successful event.
The Brotherhood Crusade's Annual Gala
On Friday, December 8th, I attended the 49th Annual Pioneer of African American Achievement Award Dinner, honoring one of the nation's most respected sportscasters and sports directors, Jim Hill of CBS. The Pioneer of African-American Achievement Award honors individuals that have made significant contributions to their respective industry and community. The sold out dinner, with over 3,000 in attendance, is the largest African-American Gala in the city of Los Angeles. "Be a Champion for Success" was this year's theme, fittingly so, as the room was full of successful business and civic leaders who are champions in their own professional and personal lives, and well known throughout the Los Angeles region for their work.
Most importantly, the funds raised by this event will help support over 3,000 local students. Again, cheers to Jim Hill and thank you and I want to commend the Brotherhood Crusade for their civic leadership award.
Congresswoman Maxine Waters Town Hall Meeting
On December 16th, I attended Congresswoman Maxine Waters' town hall meeting at Los Angeles Harbor College in Wilmington. Congresswoman Waters' fearless and assertive approach to tackling issues such as immigration, the federal budget deficit, affordable housing, foreign relations, and health care to name a few, reinvigorates my fight for what is right and reminds me that this fight must never cease, or else progress will never be achieved.
One of the most pressing issues at the time of the meeting was net neutrality and how changes in policy would affect the speed and cost of our internet services. Tax reform is also a hot topic that was discussed, and constituents were able to get answers about what reforms would impact their tax filings and returns. I am thankful to frequently be in the presence of a transformational leader such as Congresswoman Waters and look forward to continuing our work representing you all. I would also like to thank Mayor Pat Furey of Torrance and many Congressional District 43 constituents who participated in the meeting as well.
Wilmington's 30th Annual "Heart of the Harbor Holiday Parade"
On Sunday, December 10th, I had the privilege of participating in Wilmington's 30th Annual "Heart of the Harbor Holiday Parade." The streets were full of neighbors and friends out to show their holiday spirit, but more importantly to support efforts that bring the community together. I was fortunate enough to take a cruise in this beautiful convertible, 57' Chevy Bel Air. The route for the parade spanned across the city from E Street to M Street, before winding up in front of Banning Park. Before the parade I was able to join County Supervisor Janice Hahn and Assemblyman Mike Gipson for a quick conversation about the city's great turnout and priorities for the upcoming year.
San Pedro Chamber of Commerce Holiday Mixer
On Friday, December 15th, I stopped by the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce Holiday Mixer, which was hosted by Crafted at the Port of LA, which is a large-scale permanent handmade artisan marketplace. I had a great time speaking with artists, local business owners, and constituents, also checking out the amazing handmade items for sale in this gem of a venue promoting the concept of "shopping small." It is extremely important to support our mom and pop vendors, which not only directly benefits our local economy, but it also creates a stronger sense of community and unique neighborhood flavor. Thank you San Pedro Chamber of Commerce for the invitation and I look forward to other upcoming events.
Other Notable Updates
This past week, I was informed that all four of the proposed resolutions I submitted to the National Black Caucus of State Legislators were ratified at their annual conference that took place last month. Only 37 resolutions in total were approved out of hundreds submitted. The ratified resolutions were published online as of January 2nd, 2018 on the caucus' website.
A few of the resolutions mirrored legislation which I authored last year. It is immensely gratifying to see that my colleagues from around the nation recognize and support sound policy. It is both an honor and humbling to know that my heart and mind are in the right place and our work in California and for Senate District 35 resonate on a national level. As an African American State Senator, I appreciate the National Black Caucus of State Legislators for their continued support and tireless efforts to advance policy issues impacting our country, and look forward to working with them for years to come. The ratified measures are listed below:
- A Resolution Calling for Greater Public Access to Information Regarding Law Enforcement Practices (based on my bill SB 345 from 2017)
- A Resolution on the Right for Injunctive Relief Against Civil Rights Violations (based on my bill AB 2634 from 2014)
- A Resolution on Minority Male Teacher Recruitment
- A Resolution Encouraging Inclusionary Housing Practices Nationwide
Reminders
Covered California's fifth open enrollment will be ending on January 31st, 2018
Current members can also renew or change their health plans until January 31st.
For more information and assistance on how to apply and enroll, call 1-800-300-1506 or visit coveredca.com
Upcoming Martin Luther King Jr. Events
Saturday, January 20th:
- LA Fed 2018 MLK Labor Breakfast
Los Angeles Convention Center - West Hall B - 1201 S Figueroa St., LA, CA 90015 8:00am-10:30am
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