Oakland Post
PART 2
By Magaly Muñoz
The proposed widening of the turning basin at the Port of Oakland is intended to accommodate 1,310foot “megaships” carrying shipping containers and cargo into the harbor instead of the already large 1,030foot ships that are currently coming in daily to the Port.
The Port claims that the widening will decrease in-harbor transit time, transit emissions, and transportation costs, while increasing safety.
“It’s a matter of economics,” Port of Oakland Maritime Director John Driscoll said in a statement in 2019. “By loading more cargo on bigger ships, the shipping lines can actually reduce the number of vessels they deploy.”
However, legal organizations argue activity from the Port emissions represent some of the largest share of air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions in the west part
of the city, specifically from drayage trucks, cargo handling equipment, ships and more.
Increased traffic congestion from more trucks coming and going to load more cargo will also add to the pollution breathed in by people in neighborhoods surrounded by major interstate highways.
EarthJustice and concerned residents are urging the Port to prioritize zero-emission equipment over increasing truck traffic that is harming the local environment and residents.
“Our position is not that the Port shouldn’t operate as a business, but that it shouldn’t do that at the expense of the West Oakland community, particularly when it comes to public health and air quality concerns, and this sort of project, expanding the turning basin, seems like it will,” EarthJustice attorneys said.
According to California law, drayage trucks at ports began im-
By Magaly Muñoz
Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao issued an executive order on Monday directing all city departments to enforce the 2020 encampment management policy and begin a much more diligent approach to homeless encampment sweeping.
“Being homeless is not a crime in Oakland, but it doesn’t give the right to break other laws,” Thao said in a video statement.
The order comes months after the U.S. Supreme Court’s Grants Pass v Johnson decision to allow local municipalities the right to close encampments even if no shelter is available.
The encampment policy prohibits camps in “high sensitivity areas” such as schools, businesses, walkways, recreational centers, and parks.
Thao said that prioritizing
By Ken Epstein
A recently organized coalition, “Respect Our Vote – No Recalls!,” held a standing-room only mass meeting on Sept. 14, urging residents to vote ‘No’ on the two East Bay recalls funded by conservative billionaires and millionaires with the help of corporate media and instead to support the campaign to protect residents’ democratic right to choose their own representatives.
The mass meeting, attended mostly by members of local Asian American communities, was held in a large banquet room in a Chi-
nese restaurant in Alameda.
The Respect Our Vote (ROV) coalition, consisting of concerned community members and groups, is organizing meetings in Oakland and around Alameda County leading up to the November election.
Speaking at the meeting, prominent East Bay leader Stewart Chen said that local leaders, like Alameda County D.A. Pamela Price and Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, worked hard to get elected, and our system says they get four years to carry out their policies and campaign promises. But rich people
61st Year, No. 39
By Oakland Post Staff from a story by Bill Shaikin in the LA Times
After 57 years, the Athletics have left Oakland following a home series this week.
Though Congresswoman Barbara Lee introduced legislation to keep the team in Oakland, she could not get the backing she needed from other legislators in the Republican-controlled House of Representatives.
Lee tried 15 months ago, the day before Nevada politicians approved $380 million in public funds to build a Las Vegas ballpark. Lee proposed a bill that would have stopped the A’s move by requiring a hefty exit fee that would have made them reconsider a move.
“That’s only fair,” Lee said in an interview in the Los Angeles
Times by sportswriter Bill Shaikin. “That’s the only fair way to do it,” she said. “You’ve got to compensate the community, because the community has invested a heck of a lot.”
However, Lee’s bill could not go forward without the backing it needed. First, it went to the House Judiciary Committee chaired by Rep. Jim Jordan, the Ohio Republican. Jordan did not co-sponsor Lee’s bill or permit the committee hearing required for the bill to move forward.
“We put up a good fight. The city put up a good fight, the county, everyone,” said Lee.
“Unfortunately, we are losing a team that really, in the day, exemplified Black excellence in Oakland. It’s more than just the team leaving. It’s a part of Oakland’s history, and our culture,” she said.
Some of the leaders who spoke at the Respect Our Vote – No Recalls!” mass meeting were (left to right): Elaine Peng, Mariano Contreras, Pastor Servant B.K. Woodson, and Stewart Chen. Photo by Ken Epstein.
Barbara Lee threw out aa ceremonial pitch on July 4, 2018. Photo: Jeff Chiu/Associated Press.
of Dana Lang.
From Life Sentences to Life of Service: Richard ‘Razor’ Johnson Receives Recognition and Proclamation
By Richard “Razor” Johnson
On Sept. 21, at DeFremery Park in West Oakland, I was honored with an award for the work I’ve done both during and after my time in prison. Receiving this recognition stirred profound emotions within me—gratitude, humility, and reflection on a long, difficult journey. The plaque stands as one of the greatest achievements of my life, especially given my past.
My history is marked by mistakes. I was involved in selling drugs and other criminal activities that led to my receiving not one, but two life sentences. Labeled a gang member of the Black Guerrilla Family (BGF), I was sent to some of California’s toughest prisons.
My path quickly led me to the Security Housing Unit (SHU) reserved for those deemed the most dangerous. But for individuals like me, even the SHU wasn’t enough. I ended up in the “Short Corridor,” a new section reserved for so-called shot-callers, violent offenders, and those thought to be beyond redemption.
Life in the Short Corridor was
a form of solitary existence. There were only three ways out: debrief, parole, or die. I share this not to garner sympathy, but to foster empathy for the struggles of those like me who survived the “hole within the hole.”
Despite it all, I feel incredibly blessed to be free today. A judge had once told me, “As long as I’m on the bench, you will never see the streets again.” Those words lingered in my mind and drove me to make a personal vow: if I ever got out, I would dedicate myself to atoning for my past.
Along the way, I battled severe medical issues, including a heart attack that nearly ended my life. Rather than letting those moments break me, I used them as motivation to ensure that prison wouldn’t define my legacy.
The award presented to me by Dr. Gerald Agee, pastor of Friendship Christian Center, and Minister Geno Lucas, meant more than words could express. It was a reminder of the work I’ve done and the responsibility I still carry to uplift our communities.
The Proclamation accompanying the award read: “Whereas, Mr. Johnson fought
for the release of many from the Special Housing Unit (SPH) through federal court petitions and participated in the California Prison Hunger Strike Solidarity Coalition;
Whereas, While incarcerated, Mr. Johnson became a writer for publications like the Bayview and Oakland Post, addressing social justice and providing solutions for the community; Whereas, Mr. Johnson, motivated by a desire to give back, established and founded the nonprofit organization Formerly Incarcerated Giving Back (FIGB), organizing significant events; Whereas, Mr. Johnson actively collaborates with community leaders, organizations, and city officials to reduce crime, gang violence, and systemic racism; Whereas, His contributions are widely recognized by state senators, the California Governor, the Attorney General, County supervisors, the Alameda County District Attorney, the Oakland City Mayor, City Council members, business owners, and clergy; Therefore, be it proclaimed
Foothill Missionary Baptist Church
Foothill Missionary Baptist Church: Is prayerfully seeking a Pastor/Teacher, a man, called by God and set apart for the Gospel ministry in accordance with the Baptist faith as well as committed to living and serving in a manner consistent with the standard set forth in scripture of such a leader, 1 Timothy 3: 1-7. The qualified candidate is responsible to God and the church to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Effectively teach the Bible and preach the Word of God, provide Christian leadership in all areas of the church and to engage in pastoral care for the congregation.
Pastor Qualifications:
• Be led and guided by the Holy Spirit to seek this position.
• Be licensed and ordained with a minimum of 5 years ministerial experience.
• Have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited University or College, a Master of Divinity degree from an accredited theological seminary.
• Work collaboratively with the deacons, trustees, various ministries and congregation as well as engage in community outreach programs.
• Be a visionary leader who embraces the church’s mission, goals and membership growth and retention.
• Be a teacher of the word of God, a leader with sound biblical doctrine as listed in 2 Corinthians 6: 1-10 & 1 Timothy 3: 1-7.
• Possess effective leadership, administration, organization and managerial skills.
• A servant leader who has a commitment to program development, evangelism leadership and assure that the church is challenged and equipped to be disciples.
The following must be submitted and or postmarked by October 15, 2024 to Foothill M.B. Church 1530 Foothill Blvd., Oakland, CA. 94606: a recent photo; cover letter detailing how the candidate meets the above required qualifications; resume, transcripts, 3 letters of recommendations including name, telephone number, and email address.
For questions please e-mail the Pulpit Committee: FMBC1536z@gmail.com.
On Your November Ballot: Prop 6 Could End ‘Involuntary Servitude’ in California Prisons
By Edward Henderson California Black Media
Proposition (Prop) 6 would repeal language in the California Constitution that prohibits “involuntary servitude except to punish crime.”
Instead, it will replace it with language that prohibits slavery and involuntary servitude absolutely.
The amendment would also prohibit the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation from disciplining any incarcerated person for refusing a work assignment and authorize the department to award time credits to incarcerated persons who voluntarily participate in work assignments.
To gain a greater understanding of the proposition and the experience of incarcerated individuals impacted by the current lan-
guage, California Black Media spoke with Dr. Tanisha Cannon, managing director of Legal Services for Prisoners with Children (LSPC).
“There are really two main messages for this to be a yes vote,” said Cannon. “The way that the Constitution names what’s going on in these prisons is called involuntary servitude. Involuntary servitude is just another name for slavery. That means that there’s a force and there’s coercion. So, the main message here is that involuntary servitude is slavery.”
So far, eight states, including California, have made provisions in their constitutions permitting involuntary servitude, but not slavery, as a criminal punishment.
According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, 34 states have “earned time” credits that are awarded for participating
in or completing education, vocational training, treatment, and work programs. Time credits can later be applied towards early release from secure custody.
The Anti-Recidivism Coalition has also been on record supporting Prop 6, stating that, “More than 94,000 Californians are currently enslaved in state prison. African Americans account for 28% of the prison population despite making up less than 6% of California’s overall population.”
Of those roughly 90,000 inmates, the state’s prison system employs nearly 40,000 who complete a variety of tasks including cleaning, cooking, firefighting, construction and yard work. Most of these workers earn less than 74 cents an hour, excluding the firefighters who can make up to $10 a day. State law permits the correc-
Continued on page 9
COMMENTARY
By Art Harris
When I was an early career mental health professional, my close friend was coming up in his construction career. We came up in the hood together, learning life lessons from living the street life. As we grew in our fields, we wanted to showcase our hard work and income though our appearances and the valuables we owned. I flaunted the flyest sneakers, and he customized his car rims as status symbols. Our understandings of wealth, worthiness, and wellness as young, Black professionals reflected Eurocentric materialism, which we have now discovered is unhealthy.
It became imperative for us to re-align our concepts of health,
wealth and wellness with African-centered philosophies. This is what Baba Dr. Wade Nobles refers to as Sakhu (Skh), the illumination of the spirit via African science, study, understanding, and knowledge in his book “Seeking the Sakhu: Foundational Writings for an African Psychology.”
It takes awareness, intentionality, and commitment to raising our consciousness and shifting from Eurocentric paradigms of health, wealth and wellness to Afrocentric ones.
Baba Wade teaches us that racism is the pre-existing condition in America and in “The Island of Memes: Haiti’s Unfinished Revolution,” he explains that the liberation of the African mind can only happen when we return to an African consciousness. Only a healthy mind can produce a healthy body. Many of the unhealthy urges African Americans experience are a result of imagery planted by the mentally ill White supremacist culture. In enslaving and oppressing Africans in America, the White supremacist culture destroyed our ancestral memories, rituals, and conceptions of health.
African-centered anthropologists and scholars have looked to the Nile Valley civilizations of ancient Kemet (Egypt) and Kush to illustrate the historical greatness that is our legacy. Profound teachers, ministers, researchers, and psychologists like Malcolm X, Tony Browder, Dr. Ivan Van Sertima, Dr. Asa Hilliard III, Chiekh Anta Diop, and Drusilla Dunjee
Shutterstock.
Dr. Gerald L. Agee, Sr. founder of Friendship Christian Church, left, and Mr. Richard “Razor” Johnson, founder of Formerly Incarcerated Giving Back after Johnson received the proclamation on Sept. 21. Photo by Jonathan “Fitness” Jones.
Courtesy of Art Harris.
Gov. Newsom Signs Bill Protecting Creatives as AI Evolves
By Bo Tefu California Black Media
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed two bills to help actors and performers, including deceased individuals, protect their digital likeness in audio and visual content posted online.
The legislation intends to promote the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and different forms of digital media technologies used for entertainment.
Newsom signed Assembly Bill AB 2602, authored by Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San Jose), requires contracts to specify the use of AI-generated digital replicas of a performer’s voice or likeness. The bill stipulates that the performer must be professionally represented in the negotiating contract.
The law, supporters say, will protect performers, preventing the use of AI to replicate their voices and likenesses without permission.
Kalra acknowledged the impact of AI in the entertainment industry and expressed gratitude for Newsom supporting the bill.
Kalra said AB 2602 is, “a bill
that will safeguard a performer’s right to their digital self and protect artists’ livelihoods. While this bill was informed by negotiations during the historic strike by SAG-AFTRA, AB 2602 shows how California can strike the right balance between AI innovation and protecting workers in the digital age.”
The second law, AB 1836, au-
thored by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda), prohibits the commercial use of digital replicas of deceased performers in the media without consent from the performer’s estate. The use of replicas includes, but is not limited to, various forms of media, including films, TV shows, video games, audiobooks, and sound recordings. The newly signed law will restrict the unauthorized use of digital replicas in any visual or audio recordings delivered by performers while they were still alive.
Kahan said that the law helps protect the work of performers and prevents the harmful impact of AI when they are deceased.
“California has always had the best protections for artists in order to safeguard their work and likeness, but artificial intelligence
Shutterstock By Joe W. Bowers Jr. California Black Media
For decades, Medi-Cal has played a vital role in California’s healthcare infrastructure. Today, it provides health coverage to more than 15 million people, representing about 40% of the state’s population.
This includes 1.6 million people dually eligible for Medicare and Medi-Cal.
Medi-Cal, California’s version of the federal program Medicaid, has piloted a program in several
California Governor’s Office.
Public Notices, Classifieds & Business
Special to The Post
San Diego: Controller Malia Cohen Attends Launch of First All-Electric Harbor Crane in U.S.
By Bo Tefu California Black Media
State Controller Malia Cohen attended the launch of the new all-electric mobile harbor crane system at the Port of San Diego, the only dockside lifting machine of its kind in the United States.
Cohen participated in the event along with Assemblymember Tasha Boerner (D-Encinitas) and Randa Coniglio the Acting Port Chief Executive Officer.
The Port of San Diego is transitioning its industrial activities to advance the state’s clean energy goals, have a great economic impact, and improve the air quality to nearby neighborhoods. The port installed two Generation 6 Mobile Harbor Cranes at the port’s Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal (TAMT), the first-ever in the nation’s history. State and local leaders, partners stakeholders, and community members attending the celebration witnessed a demonstration of the crane’s system capabilities.
Cohen, who is also chair of the State Lands Commission, was optimistic about the health and environmental impact of the new development.
“These new cranes will advance the state’s clean energy goals while amplifying the
Port’s tremendous economic impact on the San Diego County region,” said Cohen.
“I believe that with continued investments in innovative clean energy infrastructure, workforce development, and job training, paired with ongoing meaningful community engagement and inclusion, and collaborative leadership, we can build a better tomorrow with thriving communities, a sustainable economy, and a vibrant port industry,” she added.
Frank Urtasun, chairman of the Port of San Diego and board of Port Commissioners, said that the new all-electric cranes
meet the agency’s dual-focused maritime missions to have cleaner air and deliver goods for communities in the region.
“We’re improving air quality, driving commerce, and supporting good jobs. Everybody wins,” said Urtasun.
The newly installed cranes are replacing the Port’s former diesel-powered crane. This transition is a step toward achieving one of the Port’s goals as part of the Maritime Clean Air Strategy (MCAS). The Port is working to replace all cargo handling equipment to zero emissions by 2030.
Oakland - Minister King X, a prison ‘artivist,’ and a civil rights group will hold a press conference at 11:30 a.m. on Sept. 27 at the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) headquarters at 1515 S St. in Sacramento, CA.
Sept. 20, 2024, Minister King, a community organizer with California Prison Focus, and the group All of Us Or None (AOUON) filed a lawsuit against the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) and top state government officials.
The lawsuit challenges Minister King’s unlawful arrest on Aug. 9, 2021, during “Black August,” for allegedly violating Penal Code section 4571, which criminalizes people with felony convictions standing near prison facilities.
Minister King was arrested and imprisoned by plainclothes CDCR officers after a July 2021 protest calling for the release of political prisoner Ruchell “Cinque” Magee.
The charges were dropped without a hearing, but Minister King and AOUON allege in their complaint that the arrest was retaliation for his activism and a violation of his First Amendment rights.
According to Medium, Minister King X Pyeface of Kage Universal is a rapper, producer, and ‘artivist’ from Oakland who spent six years in federal prison and 18 years in California State Prison, where he was the youngest new African organizer during the 2011 to 2013 California Prisoners Hunger Strike.
CDCR’s report for Minister
King’s arrest describes King, and many other activists, public figures, and organizations, as “Black Identity Extremists” and “Black Supremacist Extremists.”
These racist terms were used to label organizations such as Black Lives Matter as terrorist organizations and their use was abandoned by the FBI in 2019.
The lawsuit seeks to prevent CDCR from using Penal Code 4571 to target formerly incarcerated individuals for exercising their rights.
The press conference on Fri-
day will discuss the constitutional issues associated with PC 4571, which prohibits an individual who has previously been convicted of a felony and incarcerated in a California state prison from being present on the grounds of carceral facilities or anywhere adjacent to those grounds without the consent of the warden or sheriff.
Additionally, 4571 prohibits these individuals from being anywhere other individuals in state custody may be, and anywhere adjacent to those in custody individu-
California State Controller Malia Cohen (left) attended the launch of the new all-electric mobile harbor crane system at the Port of San Diego. Cohen is pictured here with Assemblymember Tasha Boerner (D-Encinitas). Photo courtesy Port of San Diego.
Minister King X. Courtesy photo.
The ‘Black Nazi’ Trump Calls ‘MLK on Steroids’ and Those Dog and Cat Lies
OPINION
By Emil Guillermo
Is Mark Robinson a “Black Nazi?”
The evidence sure points to that. Robinson is the lieutenant governor of North Carolina. Now, he’s running for governor.
As a Republican — not the Black Kink ticket.
Since CNN released its investigation on Robinson’s activity on “Nude Africa,” an adult entertainment website, the hypocrisy of the Right is clear.
CNN’s report about Robinson’s past should be disqualifying. Or you can ignore it. Like it didn’t happen. All gone. In fact, someone, deleted most, if not all, of Robinson’s salacious postings from years ago. And I suppose the slate is wiped clean?
No, this is a candidate for governor of North Carolina. The past
matters.
Robinson’s claim of being a “Black Nazi,” is among his least offensive postings. He also writes that the Holocaust was a hoax, and that slavery is good, and he’d like to buy some (slaves).
And this is the guy Trump hailed as ‘Martin Luther King Jr on steroids.’ Trump may have been hallucinating at the time. He clearly was taken in by Robinson, who, of course, denies everything. But we all should know better.
Robinson was defenseless. The majority of his top campaign staff has resigned. So, was the past all made up? You mean like the Haitians eating cats and dogs? No that was an outright lie.
This is Robinson and Trump trying to gaslight the nation.
The revealing documents against Robinson exist. Is there any surprise? In the national polling, Trump
Gov. Newsom Signs Legislative Package to Increase Housing, Improve Accountability
By Bo Tefu California Black Media
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bipartisan legislative package to improve housing initiatives and address the homelessness crisis.
The laws aim to streamline housing production and hold local governments accountable to state housing laws.
The Legislature will enact over 30 new laws to strengthen housing protections for residents and improve transparency and efficiency for housing programs and initiatives.
“No more excuses. California is taking action to fix the decadeslong homelessness, housing, and mental health crises,” said Newsom “These new laws — paired with the state’s unprecedented resources — will deliver more housing, get people off the streets, and provide life-changing support that will benefit all Californians,” he said.
The bill package has new laws that mandate local governments to
provide housing to vulnerable residents or low-income individuals experiencing homelessness. The laws will create strict timelines and robust requirements for local governments to report progress on housing and provide notice to the public, increasing accountability for local agencies. Under the new state laws, cities and counties that fail to adopt housing element revisions or approve housing developments will face monetary penalties for failing to comply with housing laws. The state will reduce regulatory barriers to promote housing near transit and provide incentives for accessory dwelling units as well as senior and student accommodation.
The bill package includes $2.2 billion in funding through Proposition 1 to build housing for veterans and individuals struggling with mental health or substance use disorders. The state plans to develop over 4,000 housing units and expand its HomeKey initiative to convert existing buildings into housing projects for homeless people statewide.
and Kamala Harris are neck and neck. Is it that hard to differentiate between a current vice president, a daughter of Oakland, and the lying former president, twice impeached, 34 times indicted and convicted for criminal felonies?
That’s a gauge of how badly America has lost its way.
The U.S. vs. Springfield, Ohio
Everyone knows Springfield, Ohio, by now.
Springfield is a place, it seems, where people are less concerned about any of us than about the dog and cat population.
Of course, the dogs and cats there are a lot safer than you think.
Last week, the conservativeleaning Wall Street Journal definitively debunked Trump’s dog-andcat allegations as outright lies.
WSJ verified that the Trump campaign knew the dog and cat rumors were lies on debate night and Trump still spread the slurs to the
67 million who watched.
Even J.D. Vance knew the truth, but still continues to lie about cats and dogs.
The Trump-Vance campaign is fueled by lies, so the facts are irrelevant.
Said Vance to CNN: “If I have to create stories so that the American media actually pays attention to the suffering of the American people, then that’s what I’m going to do.”
Sounds like the Hitler playbook rule written by Joseph Goebbels: “Repeat a lie often enough and it becomes the truth.”
But the truth is this: No dogs and cats were harmed in this story ever. Only the credibility of politicians.
Emil Guillermo is a journalist and commentator. He does a micro-talk show on YouTube.com/@ emilamok1 Contact: www.amok. com
Ahead of Nov. Election, Event to Check Pulse of California’s Political Landscape
By Bo Tefu California Black Media
The Public Policy Institute of California is hosting a “2024 Speaker Series on California’s Future,” a preview event outlining the political landscape of the state and the nation ahead of the upcoming November elections.
The event, which will be held Sept. 26 from 12 noon to 1 p.m., will include a panel of prominent political journalists who will assess the mood of the electorate and discuss themes and issues that are likely to shape the election outcome in November.
The welcome and opening remarks of the event will be led by Tani Cantil-Sakauye, the president and chief executive officer of the PPIC. The discussion will be moderated by FOX 11 news anchor Elex Michaelson, journalists joining the conversation include senior political writer Joe Garofoli of the San Francisco Chronicle, national politics reporter Astead Herndon of the New York Times, political correspondent for KQED Marisa Lagos, and senior political reporter POLITICO Melanie Mason.
Sen. Laphonza Butler Helps Secure Nomination of Central California Federal Judge Michelle Williams Court
By Bo Tefu California Black Media
Last week, U.S. Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, helped to secure the nomination of Judge Michelle Williams Court as Judge for the Central District of California with a vote of 49-44.
In her new role, Court became the third Black woman and fifth in the court’s history to serve as an Article III Judge in the state’s Central District.
Since 2012, Court worked for the Superior Court of California in Los Angeles County.
In 2023, she was a supervising judge in the court’s civil division.
Before being a judge, she worked as an attorney, then later became the vice president and general counsel at Bet Tzedek Legal Services, a nonprofit law firm specializing in human rights and poverty justice.
Court dedicated her career as a lawyer to civil rights and social development. She led and contributed to several projects at the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development and the American Civil Liberties Union in Southern California. The judge earned her Juris Doctor in 1993
from the
1988 from Pomona
“The Central District of California serves roughly 17 million people, making it the largest federal district by population in the entire United States. The judges who serve these Californians are currently facing an unprecedented number of filings, making the need to fill the court’s vacancies all that more urgent. It is commonly said that ‘justice delayed is justice denied,’ and at this moment the people of California’s Central District are indeed being denied justice as a direct result of these judicial vacancies,” said Butler in her statement on the Senate Floor urging her colleagues to approve Court’s nomination.
Butler also praised Court’s commitment to justice and track record of serving the state of California.
“Her nomination is an important step towards building trust in our legal system by ensuring that our federal courts reflect and represent the diversity of the people it serves,” he said regarding Judge Court’s career serving in the state’s justice system.
By Bo Tefu California Black Media
A statewide survey by the PPIC revealed key findings that highlighted people’s concerns regarding candidates of choice for the 2024 presidential election, the 10 state propositions on the ballot, and the financial direction of the state in the next 12 months.
Since Vice President Kamala Harris replaced President Joe Biden as the Democratic Party standard bearer, 6 in 10 California likely voters support the Democratic presidential ticket compared to the Republican party and other candidates.
“Californians’ support for the Democratic presidential candidate — and partisans’ overwhelming preference for their party’s candidates — were the consistent trends before Harris replaced Biden,” the survey report stated.
Among the 10 ballot measures, approximately 71% of voters are expected to vote yes on Proposition 36, allowing felony charges and increased sentences for some drug and theft crimes.
According to the survey, the majority of voters, “think it is a good thing that a majority of votContinued on page 9
Graduation rates at the University of California have increased by 10 points over the last 10 years putting the college system on track to achieve its 2030 graduation goals, according to a report on college completion in the state released by the Public Policy Institute of California.
Recent data indicated that the UC system has a graduation rate of 73% for four-year students and a six-year graduation rate of 86%, according to the institution’s data.
The system will increase the fouryear graduation rate to 76% and the six-year rate to 90% by 2030.
However, students at California
State University are lagging behind with a graduation rate of 36% for four-year students and a 62% for six-year graduation rate. The graduation rates for students in the UC system are more than double that of students at CSU. Consequently, it is unlikely that CSU will meet its graduation goal of graduating 40% of four-year students and 70% of six-year students by 2025.
The report revealed that nonprofit institutions have relatively high completion rates compared to
a high number of for-profit and private colleges that have lower graduation rates.
Researchers stated that longstanding equity gaps in college completion persist indicating that Black and Latino students graduate at lower rates of 52% and 64% The data is varied in comparison to White and Asian students who graduate at higher rates of 75% and 83%, respectively.
Nonetheless, the report showed that Black students in the UC system graduated at a rate of 78% in four years, nearly double the graduation number of Black students in the CSU system with a rate of 47 percent.
“Campus and regional disparities are stark,” the report stated regarding the varying graduation rates at the different college locations.
“Despite progress, equity gaps at UC remain nearly as large as they were in 2018. At CSU, gaps have widened over time; however, many campuses have made progress in closing them,” the report stated about the equity gaps in the college systems.
The state has set a goal to achieve a graduation rate of 70% by 2030.
Photo courtesy of Mark Robinson’s Facebook page.
On Sept. 19, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bipartisan legislative package to improve housing initiatives and address the homelessness crisis. Photo: California Black Media.
Image courtesy of the Public Policy Institute of California.
Judge Michelle Williams Court. File photo.
iStock Photo.
Loyola Law School at the Loyola Marymount University, and she received her bachelor’s in
College.
Not So Sweet: California State Health Campaign Highlights Dangers of Sugary Drinks
By Edward Henderson California Black Media
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and CalFresh Healthy Living, the state’s nutrition assistance program, recently launched a health campaign to illuminate the risks of drinking sugar-sweetened beverages and the health benefits of hydrating with water.
The “Not So Sweet Side” initiative encourages families to make informed decisions about the drinks they choose and to be aware of the sugar content present in them.
According to the campaign, consuming too much sugar has been associated with an increase in chronic conditions and diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and tooth decay. African Americans face a higher risk of developing diabetes mellitus, heart disease and tooth decay.
Dr. Redieat Assefa is a pediatrician at Riverside University Health Systems. She spoke at a webinar hosted by California Black Media introducing the cam-
paign to ethnic media publishers across California.
Assefa underscored the importance of reading labels on sugary drinks you may consume and how to identify drinks that contain too much.
“When reading a nutrition label, there are a few key components that I would like us to consider. The first thing is the serving size of your sugary drinks. Is it one can? Is it one bottle? Then you go down to your total carbohydrates, which can be broken down to your fibers and sugary, added sugars or non-added sugars.”
To simplify the process, compare the grams of sugar in a box of Apple Juice with preservatives that could be around 40 grams of sugar and that of natural juice which averages around 6 grams.
Assefa also added that research indicates that African American women who drink one to two sugary beverages daily have an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Sugary drinks can lead to high blood pressure, hype, and hypertension, contributing to a greater risk of heart disease among Afri-
can American young adult men who, on average, consume sugary beverages at a higher level than other groups.
Assefa pointed out that there are about 10 teaspoons of sugar in a single can of soda.
Dr. Maxmillian Chambers, a dental professional and public health advocate, also spoke on the panel promoting the campaign highlighting the impact sugary drinks can have on dental health.
“As we continue this dialogue, it’s crucial to turn our focus to oral health, a key component of our overall well-being that doesn’t often receive the attention it deserves. Sugary drinks are a significant contributor to tooth decay. Research shows that drinking more than two eight-ounce servings of sugary beverages per week can drastically increase the risk of cavities. And for our youth, particularly those aged 9 to 18, sugary drinks are primary sources of added sugar in their diets.”
Lakeysha Sowunmi, a mom and public health advocate who has worked to influence state policy and mobilize communities, including churches, around health issues, said, “I work with families on a budget, for example, and help them understand CalFresh and the resources that are available. We talk about portion control. We talk about feeding big families.”
The CalFresh Healthy Living Program is led by CDPH’s Nutrition and Physical Activity Branch. To explore recipes, resources, and tips for making healthier beverage choices, visit http://uncoverhealthyhabits.com/
On Your November Ballot: Prop 5 Would Make It Easier for Local Gov’ts to Fund Housing, Infrastructure – With Risks
By Edward Henderson California Black Media
Proposition 5 would amend the California constitution by lowering the required voter approval threshold to 55% for local governments to borrow money to fund affordable housing construction, down payment assistance programs, supportive housing and public infrastructure projects. “Infrastructure,” according to the proposition’s language can include a broad range of development projects, including water management, local hospitals, police stations, broadband networks, parks and other development projects.
Under current law, it takes a supermajority of 66% of voters to approve those housing and infrastructure bonds.
If Prop 5 passes, the new approval threshold will apply not just to future bonds, but any that are on the ballot this November.
Supporters of the proposition believe that lowering the voter approval threshold to 55% would make it easier for cities and towns to borrow money in support of critical projects like creating more affordable housing to address the state’s ongoing housing shortage and homelessness crisis, for example.
California Black Media (CBM)
reached out to the Western States Regional Joint Board Workers United, a labor union that supports a yes vote for Prop 6. They represent Industrial Laundry workers and Starbucks employees. They provided the following statement:
“As a union that represents low wage workers in communities where affordable housing is virtually non-existent, we join the proponents of Prop 5 in supporting a more streamlined solution to funding the building of more affordable housing by a majority threshold.”
Jesse Arreguin, the mayor of Berkeley and vice president of the Association of Bay Area Governments is also on record saying: “As Californians, it is our right to tell the government how it should spend our taxpayer funds. If a majority of people believe that general obligation bonds should be issued for critical housing and infrastructure needs, then it should not be blocked by a minority. Prop. 5 will give more control to the voters.”
Opponents believe that decisions which put more debt on the state should be made via a broad consensus.
Critics also call the measure an attempt to undo the taxpayer protections that California voters embedded into the state constitution with Prop 13.
CBM spoke with David Kline,
vice president of Communications & Research for CalTax on why a no vote for Prop 5 is the best option.
“The bottom line is, we oppose it because it’s going to increase the cost of living in California,” said Kline. “The cost of living here is already too high. By making it easier for local governments to approve more bonds, that leads to property tax increases because that’s how bonds are repaid.
Opponents also believe that when it is easier to borrow money, some elected officials are likely to spend existing tax revenues on everything except high-priority needs. They believe the higher threshold is a proper check and balance to make sure funds only go to projects that are imperative.
“Under the current system local governments still can approve bonds. They need two-thirds vote. It means the community really has to come together and agree to get to that vote level.”
A “yes” vote supports lowering the vote threshold from 66.67% to 55% for local bond measures to fund housing projects and public infrastructure.
A “no” vote opposes lowering the vote threshold from 66.67% to 55% for local bond measures to fund housing projects and public infrastructure.
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE
counties, including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Fresno, Kings, Madera, Sacramento, and Tulare, that presents an option for Californians who qualify for both MediCal and Medicare. By 2026, the Department of Health Services aims to make the program available to eligible individuals in all counties.
Transforming Medi-Cal: A Vision for Better Health Care
Medi-Cal transformation focuses on improving health care coordination, integration, quality, equity, and accessibility.
A key component of this broader vision to enhance healthcare access and improve health outcomes for Californians is Medi-Medi Plans, a type of Medicare Advantage plan. Medi-Medi Plans are designed to coordinate care for people who qualify for both Medicare and Medi-Cal by combining their Medicare and Medi-Cal benefits into one plan.
Medicare and Medi-Cal operate separately, with different benefits and plans. Medi-Medi Plans are helping integrate care for members dually eligible for Medicare and Medi-Cal.
Key Features of Medi-Medi Plans In a Medi-Medi Plan, a member’s Medicare plan takes the lead, with Medi-Cal providing wrap-around support.
This integrated approach simplifies access to health care services, allowing qualifying individuals to receive primary care, specialty care, prescription medications, transportation assistance, and other benefits in one coordinated plan.
Features include:
Dedicated Care Team: MediMedi Plans have a dedicated team to assist members in understanding their benefits, scheduling appointments, managing chronic conditions, and accessing preventive care.
Network of Providers: Prima-
ry care, specialist services, hospitals, clinics, labs, pharmacies, and medical equipment suppliers are all included in a Medi-Medi Plan’s network, ensuring members can find quality care for various medical needs.
Mental Health Services: MediMedi Plans offer access to therapy and counseling. This ensures access to resources essential for stress management, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
Transportation Assistance: Medi-Medi Plans provide transportation support to ensure members can make it to scheduled medical appointments.
Supplemental Benefits: MediMedi Plans may offer extra benefits like dental, hearing, vision, and over-the-counter benefits, in addition to what Medi-Cal covers.
Choosing the Right Plan
For example, Los Angeles County residents have several Medi-Medi Plans to choose from.
Available plans include:
• Anthem Full Dual Advantage
Aligned – call 833-236-2366
• Blue Shield Total Dual Plan –call 800-452-4413
L.A. Care Medicare Plus – call 866-522-2736 Molina Medicare Complete Care Plus – call 800-665-0868
• Kaiser Permanente Senior Advantage Medicare Medi-Cal South P1 – call 800-443-0815
• Wellcare Dual Align – call 800-431-9007
To be eligible to join a MediMedi Plan, you must have both Medicare Part A and B and MediCal and must be 21 years of age or older.
Take Charge of Your Health
To help you find the right plan, Los Angeles County offers free support through the Center for Health Care Rights, Los Angeles County’s Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP).
To learn more about available plans and additional resources, contact the Center for Health Care Rights at (800) 434-0222. You can also call your Medi-Cal plan or 1-800-Medicare.
their estates deserve protections that extend beyond their life to ensure they control their own likeness and profit from it; that is exactly what AB 1836 does,” she said.
that I, Dr. Gerald Agee Sr., Pastor of Friendship Christian Center, recognize the positive impact that Mr. Richard Johnson has had on the Oakland Community on this day, Saturday, September 21, 2024.”
My journey, which began in the darkest corners of prison, has blossomed into something far greater. My work through FIGB is a testament to the fact that no
one’s legacy should be limited to their mistakes.
Being recognized by my community is a profound honor, but it’s also a responsibility. I continue to work alongside individuals from all walks of life—across different nationalities, professions, and faiths—spreading the message that giving back is not just an option, but a duty we all share. What started in prison has now grown into a lifelong mission to make a difference. If we truly embrace the meaning of freedom, we can change the world by giving our all to uplift humanity. That’s the legacy I hope to leave behind for future generations.
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als without consent.
King and AOUON have alleged in their complaint that the statute violates the First Amendment rights of formerly incarcerated individuals and is overly broad and vague.
“In the depths of Pelican Bay State Prison, and other correc-
tional facilities across the United States, a forgotten population of elderly incarcerated individuals awaits redemption. They are not the ‘worst of the worst,’ violent predators or Black Identity Extremists,” says Minister King X. “Rather, they are a unique class of individuals who possess the wisdom, experience, and desire to promote peace and reconciliation. I am advocating for and on behalf of these elders and the rights of all other prisoners.”
(AI) requires us to continue to update the law to ensure that we are fully protecting our amazing performers,” said Kahan.
“It is now possible to create new performances of artists even after their death. Individuals and
With the ever-evolving nature of AI and digital media, state officials and leaders in the tech industry anticipate that California will help regulate and shape legislation to address issues regarding online content and mass media.
tions department to pay up to half of the current minimum wage in California ($16).
Eighty percent of the employees at LSPC have been directly impacted by the prison-industrial complex. Cannon’s brother works there as well and was in prison at the age of 16 experiencing firsthand how forced labor can negatively impact an individual’s psyche.
“My grandmother passed away and he received that news in the evening. On the outside, you’d get some grieving time. That wasn’t the case for him,” said Cannon.
“He had to wake up at five o’clock the next morning. So,
Houston highlight the great contributions of African people to the fields of medicine, science, religion, politics, architecture, and more.
In his books “Spirituality Before Religions” and “Shabaka’s Stone,” Professor Kaba Hiawatha Kamene teaches that the principles of Ma’at (truth, justice, harmony, balance, propriety, order, reciprocity) ensured morality and justice were at the center of maintaining a healthy, righteous Kemetian society.
For myself, it took a growth mindset and reading books like “New Visions for Black Men and Breaking the Chains of Psychological Slavery,” by Dr. Na’im Akbar. Now, about 20 years later, my friend and I both have advanced in our fields and we now value health and wealth as it pertains to physi-
By Bo Tefu
been rescheduled from Sept. 28 to Dec. 13, at the Oakland Museum of California. Registration for the event is closed after reaching maximum capacity, according to CBFF’s website. Registration for the Oct. 5 tour stop in Moreno Valley is closed as well. Al Sharpton will be a guest speaker at that event.
The series, co-hosted by the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), has made stops in San Diego, Santa Barbara, Fresno, and Sacramento.
The State of Black California series creates space for Black Californians to engage the public and policymakers on the issues that impact the Black community. It will also provide conversations about the status of reparations legislation.
The CBFF is a five-year, $100 million measure to ensure that Black power-building and movement-based organizations have the sustainable investments and effective resources needed to remove systemic and institutional racism. CBFF was the benefactor of $3.5 million in state funds last year, distributed to various Black networks in the state.
imagine learning that the woman who raised you just passed away. You’re due for work at 5 a.m. in the morning to operate heavy machinery and you cannot say that you don’t want to work because there’s no excused absence in prison.”
So far, there hasn’t been any organized opposition to Prop 6 in California.
A “yes” vote supports amending the state constitution to prohibit slavery and involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime and authorize the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to award credits to incarcerated persons who voluntarily participate in work assignments.
A “no” vote opposes amending the state constitution to prohibit slavery and involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime.
cal, familial, financial, mental, and spiritual wellness.
As we reconnect to natural approaches to healing and attune with what is/is not healthy for people of African ancestry, then we can realize health, wellness, and joy for our families and communities.
About the Author
Art Harris is a Bay Area native, veteran of the U.S. Navy, licensed marriage and family therapist, and school psychologist. He is the Bay Area Chapter of the Association of Black Psychologists (Bay ABPsi) Continuing Education Unit co-coordinator. Bay ABPsi Chapter is a healing resource committed to providing the Post Newspaper with monthly discussions about critical Black Mental Health issues. Please join us at our meetings every third Saturday via Zoom or contact us at bayareaabpsi@gmail.com.
Legislative Republicans Present ‘Real Solutions’ to Drive Down Gas Prices
sion to regularly update a public dashboard comparing the state’s gas prices to national averages.
Assembly Republican leader James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) said Newsom failed to reduce the cost of gas and that the special session is an attempt to distract residents and leaders from the governor’s failure.
By Bo Tefu California Black Media
Assembly Republicans presented a plan last week with what they called “real solutions” to lower gas prices during a special legislative session called by Gov. Gavin Newsom and Assembly Democrats to pass legislation to address the high cost of gasoline prices in the state.
The Republican Caucus proposed seven bills that aim to make gas more affordable statewide. The package includes bills that exempt gas from the state’s cap-and-trade program that adds 30 cents to the cost of a gallon of gas.
Republicans also introduced a bill to suspend the state’s gas tax for one year, a bill requiring the California Energy Commis-
“While Democrats fall in line behind a scheme that Newsom’s administration says could increase gas prices, Assembly Republicans have a common-sense plan to give drivers relief,” said Gallagher. However, Capitol insiders expect the Democratic majority to push back on the bills. They could also be vetoed by Newsom.
Despite these challenges, Daniel Villaseñor, a spokesperson for the Governor, stated that the Republican bills are a part of “Big Oil’s wish list.” He argued that there is nothing in the proposed bills that will prevent spikes in gas prices. Newsom is focused on solutions that protect residents from getting gouged at the pump with prices that only bring profits to the oil industry and misery for consumers, Villaseñor stated.
ers can make laws and change public policies by passing initiatives.”
Voters agree that initiatives on the ballot, “bring up important public policy issues that the Governor and Legislature have not adequately addressed.”
The event will be held at the Sheraton Grand Hotel in Sacramento.
The PPIC Speaker Series on California’s Future invites thought leaders and changemakers to address challenges in the state. Residents can visit the PPIC website for more information and register for the event available online and in person.
The survey also revealed that nearly half of voters think the state and country are headed in the wrong direction and expect financial struggles in the next 12 months.
At the State of Black California event in Sacramento on Sept. 14. From left to right: Asm. Mia Bonta (D-Oakland); Asm. Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), and Asm. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley). CBM photo by Antonio Ray Harvey.
Assembly Republican leader James Gallagher (R-Yuba City).
Courtesy of the office of Assembly Republican leader James Gallagher.
Los Angeles Hosts Annual ‘Stop the Hate’ Campaign Amidst Growing Reports
By Magaly Muñoz
Los Angeles County hosted its seventh annual United Against Hate Week with community partners to rally against the growing hate incidents that are occurring across the country.
United Against Hate Week (UAHW) is used as a call for local civic action to stop hate, discrimination, and implicit biases that negatively impact our diverse communities across the state.
Los Angeles County Human Relations Commission Executive Director Robin Toma said the event is usually held in November, but they decided to move the event up to September because of the fall election and the negative rhetoric it has brought to certain groups.
“We knew that with this special election year there would be a lot of things said that would foment hate, foment division, foment hostility and scapegoating of others,” Toma said.
Following the presidential de-
bate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, where Trump spread misinformation about Haitian immigrants eating animals, hate crimes against Haitians grew in Springfield, Ohio.
Although the group will not publicly endorse a candidate, Toma encouraged everyone to “vote against hate” because who and what people vote for can contribute to whether hate continues to rise or not.
While hate crimes are still very underreported, mainly due to fear from victims, Toma said the LA vs Hate reporting line has changed the way people view reporting crimes because victims are now given the option to receive resources, such as counseling, to help get them through their trauma. Before the reporting line existed, victims felt ignored by police because often no action was taken from the report.
LA County District Attorney George Gascón, who has served
Environmental Justice Advocates ...
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plementing zero-emission technology this year, with full implementation by 2035.
The Port of Oakland has acquired several battery electric trucks and are working toward cleaner equipment, but officials acknowledge that it will take time and resources.
Less than 10 miles from the Port, another project, the addition of new terminals at the newly dubbed San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport, is causing distress to activists and workers.
An estimated 174 people per 10,000 living directly around the airport visited the emergency department for asthma, according to CalEnviroScreen.
Emissions from passenger flights at OAK are equivalent to the yearly emissions from 1,200,000 cars, according to Airport Tracker.
Advocates argue that airlines are failing to meet climate goals, meaning expansions should come to a halt until technological solutions are available for greener air traffic at current demand.
Among the most negatively impacted people from the airport are those working there day and night.
Juana, a cabin cleaner at OAK, told The Post that she contracted asthma soon after starting her job, and due to low wages and no health insurance, she cannot pay for her needed medication.
“Working there is a negative exposure to your life, to your health, to everything,” Juana said.
As a cabin cleaner, she and three other workers have to sanitize and clean the inside of the airplane cabins as soon as passengers deboard the aircraft. The work can be back-breaking and often they are exposed directly to the pollution of the plane since they are made to stand in the terminal waiting for the craft to arrive.
Juana explained that her employer does not give workers ample time off to rest and recover from the harmful effects of working at the airport. She said when people brought concerns about the conditions, they were met with hostility and told to walk out if they didn’t like being there.
Not many have walked out, Juana admitted.
Juana said the airport and thirdparty companies, like her employer, are aware that people in the community are desperate for jobs and are essentially exploiting them with difficult work and little pay.
She is worried that the terminal expansion will double the work for
crimes, and to encourage acceptance and understanding among Angelenos,” Gascón said.
LA County recently had a reported spike in hate crimes by 18% from 790 to 929 reported crimes in 2022. Gascón said the county has the highest prosecution rate for hate crimes in all counties across California.
Hate crime victim Frankie Aguirre also spoke at the United Against Hate event, sharing his experience as a gay man in Los Angeles.
wouldn’t be here without.
The team at LA vs Hate helped him get out of his toxic living situation and he urged others in a similar place to contact the team to receive help.
LA vs Hate has received more than 2,700 reports of hate, over 800 during the last year, according to the organization. Nearly 90% of callers have requested personal assistance through case management.
her and her colleagues, with no increase in pay, and more exposure to the troubling health conditions the job leaves people with. Additionally, since OAK is not required to offer health insurance to workers, their current health problems will only be exacerbated with time.
Collaboration with the Port Environmental justice activists agree that while all their needs have not been met, and there is a long way to go before they do, they do have the ear of some Port Commissioners.
Michael Colbruno, a Board member since 2013, considers himself an environmentalist, which activists say is not quite an environmental justice advocate, but close enough.
Colbruno has opened up the dialogue and access to the decision makers by organizing an informal meeting he conducts to gather community input on Port projects.
These meetings have resulted in more funding from grants, better awareness of what environmental concerns might arise from future agenda items, and the Port’s participation in the Green Marine Program. The program helps its participants improve their environmental performance beyond regulations and targets key environmental issues related to biodiversity protection and air, water, and soil quality.
Colbruno acknowledged that there are problems with some of the projects the Port is working on, but the city has to find a way to keep growing so that they do not lose out on economic opportunities.
“The goal, then, is to try to do [projects] as cleanly and sustainably as possible, and to put the pieces in place that make it have the least environmental impact for the community. You can’t have that kind of a project with zero environmental impact. It’s impossible,” Colbruno said.
While activists appreciate the opportunity to talk with Colbruno, they are demanding a long-overdue seat at the Port of Oakland Commissioner table for someone like Margaret Gordon, who has dealt with the harsh realities of living in these frontline communities impacted by the polluted environment.
Activists intend to push for more representation from the mayor as more Board seats open up in the coming years.
“I think that’s a valuable thing, having somebody that really understands firsthand experience… someone that has proper expertise,” president of 350 Bay Area Jack Fleck said.
as San Francisco District Attorney and Police Chief, said the DA’s office is taking two major actions against hate crimes.
The first action is prosecution where the case calls for it, but Gascón said this is not the sole approach he wants to rely on.
The DA’s office also prioritizes education and restorative justice programs for hate crimes to of-
fenders who qualify. This could involve offenders visiting the communities where they committed their crime so that they may learn the severity of committing these hateful acts.
“In a county as diverse as Los Angeles, my office is extremely proud of our partnership with this important community coalition to take strong action against hate
Aguirre was the victim of harassment by his neighbors for six years because of his sexuality. He often felt he could not invite family and friends to his home for fear that residents in his building would bully them too.
Aguirre said he decided to call the 211 LA Hate hotline number to report the harassment he’d been receiving. After calling, he was connected to a care coordinator that connected him to services and resources, which he said he
This resource was supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library via California Black Media as part of the Stop the Hate program. The program is supported by partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to https:// www.cavshate.org/
Dana Lang for BART Board District 7 ... ‘Respect Our Vote’ ...
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its surrounding region — helping to create and retain agency jobs, getting riders to their workplaces, and encouraging small business development near transit hubs. With that in mind, she pursued a bachelor’s degree in economics from Wellesley College, then an MBA from Cal Berkeley Haas School of Business. She started her municipal career as a policy advisor to Mayor Elihu Harris and helped secure grants for the City of Oakland before moving to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission. During her 24-year career she has helped secure hundreds of millions of dollars for Bay Area transit agencies and municipalities. In addition to BART’s financial health, Lang’s priorities for BART also include safety, cleanliness, station vitality and
bringing riders back to BART. She has served on the BART Police Civilian Review Board since 2022.
Lang is also endorsed by BART Board Director Robert Raburn, former BART Board Director Carole Ward Allen, Oakland City Attorney Barbara Parker, former Oakland Mayor Elihu Harris, former San Francisco Mayor Willie L. Brown, Oakland Councilperson Janani Ramachandran, Alameda Councilperson Tracy Jensen, Oakland Chinatown leader Carl Chan, and many others.
Lang is seeking the BART Board District 7 Seat, which covers most of the East Bay, including Oakland, Alameda, Emeryville, Piedmont, and a small portion of Berkeley. The district also includes Bay View Hunters Point and Treasure Island in San Francisco.
Mayor Sheng Thao Issues Executive Order ...
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which camps will close down immediately will come down to where they are located, such as the high sensitivity areas, and the public safety concerns the camps attract, such as fires, violent crimes, and illegal dumping.
Oakland joins other California cities, including their Bay Area neighbors San Francisco and Berkeley, in a calculated approach to cracking down on the homelessness crisis.
San Francisco Mayor London Breed has been vocal in her decision to increase sweeping and get people off of the streets, which many have criticized as a political ploy as she seeks reelection this fall.
Thao followed up her executive order with another video Tuesday afternoon, where she and Assistant City Administrator Harold Duffey walked through the Martin Luther King Way encampment, stating the city recently cleared out 40 tons of debris from the littered area.
The city began clearing out the encampment early last week with some reports saying that staff threw away people’s personal belongings, including a wheelchair.
The mayor’s office did not respond for comment at the time of publication.
About 40 people were living in the camp, according to the City. Sixteen people received shelter, nine enrolled in a county medical respite program, and 12 individuals declined offers of shelter and self-relocated. An individual with two broken legs was also taken to the hospital.
In the video, Duffey explained that two weeks prior to an encampment closure, outreach teams are asked to visit the site
and pair people with services and offer temporary housing.
Although there are offers of shelter being made at sweeps, Thao’s executive order states that in no way will “emergency or urgent closures be delayed for shelter unavailability,” meaning sites can be closed down and people will have to disperse even if they have nowhere else to go.
Duffey clarified that although workers cleared out a massive amount of debris from the MLK site, the city is aware that the illegal dumping is often coming from individuals targeting encampments to litter the area because it’s easier to place blame on the people already living there.
Thao shared her experience of homelessness in both video statements, saying she lived in her car with her son after she escaped an abusive relationship. She added that she never once thought about “pitching a tent on the streets.”
Advocates are upset at the recent order, arguing it will exacerbate the harm to unhoused Oaklanders.
Talya Husbands-Hankin, founder of Love and Justice in the Streets, said the order will force these vulnerable residents into unsafe conditions because of the failure to provide permanent housing. She added that this action is aligning itself with values of a Trump-appointed Supreme Court and is “contrary to the values of justice and equity that Oaklanders want to uphold.”
“We know that sweeps are not the answer, and we urge Mayor Thao to redirect all resources into immediately opening public land for community-led solutions and funding permanent housing to uplift human rights for all Oakland residents,” HusbandsHankin said.
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have “broken” that system. Within two months after they took office, they were facing recalls paid for by billionaires, he said. “(Billionaires’) candidate did not get elected, so they want to change the system.”
“(Our elected leaders) were elected through the process, and the people spoke,” said Chen. “It’s the entire system that the billionaires are trying to (overturn).”
“If a candidate does something wrong or enacts a policy that we do not like, we let it play out, and in four years, we do not have to vote for them.
“The democratic system that we have had in place for a couple of hundred years, it needs our help,” said Chen.
Pastor Servant B.K. Woodson, a leader of the coalition, emphasized the diversity and solidarity needed to defend democracy. “We need each other’s wisdom to make our nation great, to make it safe. We are deliberately African American, English-speaking, Latino American, Spanish-speaking, and all the wonderful dialects in the Asian communities. We want to be together, grow together, and have a good world together.”
Mariano Contreras of the Latino Task Force said that people need to understand what is at stake now.
The recall leaders are connected to conservative forces that will undermine public education, and bilingual education, he said. “The people behind (the recalls) are being used by outside dark money,” he said. The spokespeople of these recalls are themselves conservatives “who are wearing a mask that says they are progressives.”
In 2017, Oakland passed an ordinance that gave teeth to its “Sanctuary City” policy, which was brought to the City Council and passed because it was supported by progressive members on the council.
“That would not be possible anymore if the progressive alliance - Sheng Thao, Nikki Fortunato Bas, and Carroll Fife - if they are pushed out,” he said.
Elaine Peng, president of Asian Americans for Progressive America, said, “I strongly oppose the recalls of Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao and Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price.”
Citing statistics, she said Alameda County’s murder rate was higher when Alameda County D.A. Nancy O’Malley was in office, before Pamela Price was elected to that position.
“The recall campaign has been misleading the public,” said Peng.
She said Oakland is making progress under Thao. “Crime rates are falling in Oakland,” and the City is building more affordable housing than ever before and is creating more jobs.
Attorney Victor Ochoa said, this recall is “not by accident in Oakland – it is a political strategy.”
“There is a strategy that has been launched nationwide. What we’re seeing is oligarchs, (such as Phillip Dreyfuss from Piedmont), right wingers, conservatives, who can write a check for $400,000 like some of us can write a check for $10.”
“They aligned themselves with so-called moderate forces, but they’re not moderates. They align themselves with the money, and that’s what we have seen in Oakland.”
Ochoa continued, “You got to put up signs, you’ve got to talk to your neighbors, volunteer whatever hours you can, have a house meeting. That’s the way progressives win.”
Pecolia Manigo of Oakland Rising Action spoke about what it will take to defeat the recalls. “This is the time when you are not only deputized to go out and do outreach, we need to make sure that people actually vote.
“We need everyone to vote not just for the president, but all the way down the ballot to where these questions will be. Remind people to fill out their ballot, and mail it back.”
Former Oakland Mayor Jean Quan, who had herself faced a recall attempt, said, “In this recall, they used a lot of money, had paid signature gatherers, and they moved very fast. I talked to many of the people gathering signatures. They didn’t know what was going on. Many of them didn’t live in Oakland. It was just money for them.”
“Sam Singer, the guy who is their spokesperson, is a paid PR guy. He has media ties, so they’ve swamped the media against Sheng,” Quan said.
‘Oakland is… a city that implemented some of the first rent control protections in the country. So, developers and big apartment owners would love to get rid of rent control,” said Quan.
“We also established rankedchoice voting, which allows people with less money to coalesce and win elections,” she said. “That’s too democratic for people with big money. They would rather have elections the way they were.”
Somali Family Service, one of the groups receiving state anti-hate money, hosted immigrant families, refugees and asylum seekers at a resource fair in San Diego on Sept. 9, 2023. Photo by Kristian Carreon, CalMatters.