Candidate Filing Open July 15th to August 9th

July 15 to August 9th is the filing period for positions open in Contra Costa County on the November 5th ballot. For a list of these positions as well as where you need to file if you want to run for office, go to https://www.contracostavote.gov/wp-content/uploads/24Nov5_PositionsUpForElection.pdf

Proclamation in honor of May 1st International Workers’ Day

A PROCLAMATION IN HONOR OF INTERNATIONAL WORKERS’ DAY 2024

WHEREAS International Workers’ Day, also known as May Day, is recognized around the world as a day to honor and fight for working people’s rights; and 

WHEREAS May First was selected as the date to honor working people and continue the campaign for an eight-hour workday that led to the general strike in 1886 and other actions by working people; and 

WHEREAS International Workers’ Day continues to be a celebration of the efforts of the working and middle class in the United States and around the world to organize for improved working conditions and rights; and 

WHEREAS persisting gender and racial pay gaps are a sobering reminder of how far we have to go towards achieving equal rights and fair wages for all working- and middle-class people; and

WHEREAS President Biden was the first sitting president to walk a picket line on September 26, 2023, and emphasized economic issues of importance to working- and middle-class people of all generations, as well as social issues, in his 2024 State of the Union address; and

WHEREAS 2023 was a year of renewed union activity with the successful United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) strike at Stellantis, successful strikes of the entertainment industry by the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the Writers Guild of America (WGA), and efforts to organize retailers such as Starbuck’s and REI while Space-X, Starbuck’s, Amazon, and Trader Joe’s have launched a suit to render the National Labor Relations Board impotent when the ability of the Supreme Court to act as a fair and impartial referee has been severely degraded; and

WHEREAS labor unions play a vital role in ensuring a strong working and middle class by advocating for fair pay, humane and safe work conditions, improved benefits, and increased civic engagement by working people to advance and protect the rights, economic opportunities, and security of working and all people; and

WHEREAS Contra Costa County is home to more than 110,000 union members representing more than 85 unions in various trades and industries; 

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County joins in the worldwide celebrations of workers’ rights activism taking place on May 1, 2024, and acknowledges how working people are the vital heart of every workplace, industry, and community; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County calls upon all elected officials to join efforts to ensure the rights of all working people are protected and that government at all levels, as well as civil society, actively promote and protect the rights and economic security of the working and middle class.

Approved by the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County, April 18, 2024

May 2024 Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month

PROCLAMATION OF MAY 2024 AS

ASIAN AMERICAN PACIFIC ISLANDER (AAPI) HERITAGE MONTH

WHEREAS, the month of May was chosen as Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese citizen, Nakahama Manjiro, to the United States on May 7, 1843, but also the anniversary of the May 10, 1869, completion of the first Transcontinental Railroad, built with the back-breaking labor of nearly 20,000 Chinese immigrants; and

WHEREAS, Contra Costa County’s population is more than 18 percent Asian American and Pacific Islander and includes devoted community members who serve as artists, business owners, educators, health care professionals, lawyers and judges, elected officials, clergy members, first responders, military personnel and essential front-line service workers; and 

WHEREAS, in the 1920s and 30s, Filipino immigrants arrived in the United States seeking fortune but facing discrimination as they worked in the vast agricultural fields of California.  These manongs and manangs played a significant role in building the farm workers movement, including leading the Delano Grape Strike in 1965; and


WHEREAS, we celebrate the achievements and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders that enrich our history, society and culture, we also must be aware that AAPI history has been whitewashed and significantly erased in American curriculum, including the Chinese Exclusion Act, the Alien Land Acts, the mass incarceration of Japanese Americans, among many other issues. We must also acknowledge a darker aspect of the AAPI experience in America – structural discrimination, prejudice and injustice that most recently manifested itself in racist attacks on Asian Americans, specifically in Half Moon Bay, CA, in January 2023; and 

WHEREAS, an analysis by the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University, San Bernardino, found that overall hate crimes in America’s largest cities decreased by 7 percent in 2020; while hate crimes targeting people of Asian ancestry rose by nearly 150% during the same time period, and, from 2023 AAPI Data, 2 in 10 Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (23 percent) say they have experienced being verbally harassed or abused in the last year, and 22 percent have been called a racial or ethnic slur; and

WHEREAS, individual AAPI populations fare very differently when disaggregated. For example, Pacific Islanders and Southeast Asians fare significantly worse in life outcomes in comparison to East and South Asians, and that colorism in AAPI populations also impact treatment and access; and

WHEREAS, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have distinguished themselves as leading researchers in science, medicine, and technology; innovative farmers and ranchers; distinguished lawyers, judges and government leaders; in the arts, literature, and sports; as war heroes who defended our country from fascism; and as essential service workers and peacetime healthcare heroes currently on the front lines of the pandemic; and 

WHEREAS, today more than 20 million Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders live in the United States and through their actions, make America a more vibrant, prosperous, and secure nation.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County celebrates May 2024 as AAPI Heritage Month, and encourages all in our community to learn more about Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage, and work to combat racism and xenophobia as we celebrate this month with cultural events and educational activities.

Reviewed by Susan Hildreth and Brodie Hilp, District 2 elected members, March 2024

Approved by the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County, April 18. 2024

May 2024 Jewish American Heritage Month

PROCLAMATION

Declaring May 2024 as Jewish American Heritage Month

WHEREAS, from our Nation’s earliest days, Jewish Americans have been an essential part of the American story, greatly contributing to the religious, cultural, political, economic, and intellectual advancement of all people even while in the face of discrimination and adversity, working to realize the American dream; and 

WHEREAS, as we celebrate the rich heritage of the Jewish American community, in Contra Costa County, California and the nation, we recognize that American Jews have worked tirelessly to strengthen the promise of religious freedom and civil rights in the United States by joining together with all faiths to reject ignorance and intolerance, teach empathy and compassion, and root out hatred wherever it exists, and through our understanding and study of the Holocaust, we know the human devastation that can come from systemic prejudice, and are compelled to “never forget”; and 

WHEREAS, May has been recognized as Jewish American Heritage Month by Presidential Proclamation stating that The Jewish American experience is a story of faith, fortitude, and progress, and 

WHEREAS, in spite of the vibrant and diverse culture and contributions, we are reminded that the Jewish people have and continue to experience prejudice and discrimination in Contra Costa County, within the State of California, across the United States, and internationally, and continue to confront bigotry, hostility and unprovoked violence; and 

WHEREAS, antisemitism in the U.S., already on the rise before, has increased over 300% from 2022 to 2023 after the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7th, 2023, where educational, religious, political and community institutions are being targeted,[1] and seeing a similar and unprecedented rise of antisemitic incidents in the Bay Area before the attack, also surging after October 7th, and with more than half of Bay Areas Jews surveyed between November 21 and December 6, 2023 mentioning antisemitism, discrimination or safety as the most important problem facing Jews today, compared with 37 percent from last year.[2]

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that we share the obligation and responsibility to condemn and combat rising anti-Semitism and hatred wherever it exists and honor Jewish Americans — past and present — who have inextricably woven their experience and their accomplishments into the fabric of our national identity.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County recognizes May 2024 as Jewish American Heritage Month. We celebrate the hard-fought progress won through the struggle and sacrifice of Jewish Americans, and we rededicate ourselves to building a world where all diversity is respected, valued and protected. 

Renee Zeimer, Elected representative, District 2
Joy Pinsky, Alternate representative, District 4

Approved by the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County, April 18, 2024


[1] U.S. Antisemitic Incidents Skyrocketed 360% in Aftermath of Attack in Israel, according to Latest ADL Data, Published: 01.09.2024, Updated: 01.17.2024

[2] Most Bay Area Jews are more fearful since Oct. 7, survey finds, by Maya Mirsky, December 21, 2023, The Jewish News of Northern California

March 2023 DPCCC Newsletter

MARCH 2023
CHAIR’S MESSAGE

I am humbled to have received overwhelming support to continue as Chair of the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County. I am very proud to serve with a great group of Officers and District Directors who were also elected in January at our Organizational meeting. I am excited to continue to lead and serve my fellow Democrats for another two years and build on the successes we enjoyed in the 2022 elections. 

I have been working with our Leadership team to plan our activities and priorities leading up to the 2024 elections. I want us to work together to figure out the issues and elections we want to prioritize. Where can we have the most impact? How can we help the most people?

We all have been shocked and angered by the continuing number of people injured and killed in mass shootings or incidents involving law enforcement. Tyre Nichols should have had the opportunity to build on his legacy as a loving father who enjoyed skateboarding, photography, and his family. Instead, Tyre’s name is now on the too-long list of people of color who did not survive an interaction with law enforcement. 

There have been so many mass shootings that it often is challenging to keep up with the latest communities in mourning. We know that too many people cannot find an affordable place to live in the community in which they work. The climate emergency continues to intensify. Our democracy remains at risk from authoritarians who want to reverse the progress our society has made to ensure the rights of women and people of color. 

I look forward to having an opportunity soon to share more details about our strategic planning work and a new initiative to focus our efforts on equity, anti-racism, and justice. I also hope you’ll share your ideas and priorities with me at chair@contracostadems.com

Stay healthy and engaged,

Katie Ricklefs
Chair, Democratic Party of Contra Costa County

DPCCC ELECTS OFFICERS FOR 2023-24 CYCLE

The Democratic Party of Contra Costa County (DPCCC) re-elected Katie Ricklefs as its Chair for the 2023-24 term during its Organizational Meeting held on January 19, 2023. 

Ricklefs’ election was one of several votes held at the DPCCC 2023 Organizational Meeting. The DPCCC held its biennial organization meeting following a successful election cycle that saw more than 70 percent of its endorsed candidates win their elections in 2022. 

“I appreciate the opportunity to continue my work as the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County’s chair,” said Ricklefs. “Our success would not have been possible without a huge amount of teamwork and collaboration. I look forward to working with our members, volunteers, and elected officials to advance our shared agenda. We have a great deal of work ahead of us, and I hope more Democrats will volunteer, consider joining one or more of our committees, and help us continue moving forward.”

Over 100 members participated in the meeting via Zoom to elect the DPCCC’s Officers and District Directors.
Katie Ricklefs was re-elected as the DPCCC’s Chair.
Susana Williams was re-elected as the DPCCC’s First Vice Chair. 
Joey Smith was re-elected as the DPCCC’s Second Vice Chair. 
Floy Andrews was elected to her first term as the DPCCC’s Controller. She succeeds Marshall Lewis, who did not seek re-election. 
Craig Cheslog was elected to his first term as the DPCCC’s Secretary. He succeeds Kenji Yamada, who did not seek re-election. 

“I look forward to working with our team to elect Democrats and support our priority issues,” said Ricklefs. “I also want to thank Marshall Lewis and Kenji Yamada for all of their incredible work over the past two years. These volunteer jobs can be challenging and time consuming, and their efforts were a key part of our success in last year’s elections.”

DPCCC members also elected District Directors for each County Supervisorial District.
The DPCCC’s District Directors for 2023-24 are: 
District 1: Michael Nye
District 2: Katha Hartley
District 3: Carolina Villaseca
District 4: Ady Olvera
District 5: Dan Reynolds (who was elected at a district caucus on February 16, 2023)

FEBRUARY 2023 DPCCC REGULAR MEETING REPORT
EXPRESS INTEREST IN JOINING DPCCC COMMITTEES

The DPCCC’s February 16, 2023, Regular Membership Meeting featured elections for California Democratic Party Executive Board representatives (see California Democratic Party Delegates Elected story above), the confirmation of nominations for Standing and Special Committee Chairs, a preliminary budget report from our Controller, and a review of Volunteer Activism opportunities.

The Committee Chairs confirmed for the 2023-24 cycle include: 
Rules Committee: Jeff Koertzen
Complaint and Discipline Review Committee: Courtney Masella O’Brien
Parliamentarian: Robyn Kuslits
Endorsements Special Committee: Tamela Hawley
MOE Coordinator: Kathleen Van Winckel
Issues Committee: Susan Hildreth
Club Development Committee: Renee Zeimer
Recruitment Committee: Cody Keller
Training Committee: Cheryl Sudduth
Fundraising Committee: Rebecca Barrett
Infrastructure and Communications Committee: Jan Bell
Ad Hoc Committee on Volunteer Activism: Cecilia Minalga
Ad Hoc Committee on Partnership, Engagement, and Accountability: Craig Cheslog

If you are interested in joining one or more of the DPCCC’s Standing Committees, please complete our Committee Interest Form or get in touch with the committee chair directly by using the email links above. 

Regular and Associate Members of the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County are eligible to apply for membership in one or more of our Standing Committees. New members can join the DPCCC as Associate Members at any time if they are registered Democrats. Dues for Associate Members are $24/year, and you can click here to sign up!

Would you like to learn more? Under DPCCC’s file access policy, access to all non-confidential DPCCC files is available to any DPCCC member (including Associates) upon request by emailing the Secretary. You can pay your dues by clicking here!

If you are not a DPCCC member and wish to attend the monthly membership meeting, which is typically held on the third Thursday of the month, please RSVP to the DPCCC Secretary at secretary@contracostadems.com. If you are a DPCCC member, you should receive an email with details for the meeting about seven days in advance. If you do not, please email the DPCCC Secretary at secretary@contracostadems.com.
CALIFORNIA DEMOCRATIC PARTY DELEGATES ELECTEDRegular and Associate Members of the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County and Contra Costa Democrats elected delegates in two different election processes to represent them as members of the California Democratic Party’s State Central Committee. 

REPRESENTATIVES ELECTED BY THE DPCCC

The DPCCC elected 42 state party delegates, based on a formula that allows each county four base delegates and adds one additional delegate for every 10,000 registered Democrats (or a fraction more). Based on a previously enacted procedure, most of the delegates were elected in caucuses for each County Supervisorial District, with the rest elected on an At Large basis. The Delegates elected include: 
District 1: Maria Alegria, Champagne Brown, Michael Nye, Gabe Quinto, Cameron Sasai, Joey D. Smith, Cheryl Sudduth, Cesar Zepeda
District 2: Sarah Butler, Diddo Clark, Peter Ericson, Susan Hildreth, Katie Ricklefs, Marisol Rubio, Alexandria Rubio-Talavera, Renee Zeimer
District 3: Tamela Hawley, Paschal Iwuh, Yolanda Pena Mendrek, Addison Peterson, Debra Vinson, Susana Williams
District 4: Chuck Carpenter, Roxanne Carrillo Garza, Jeff Koertzen, Marshall Lewis, Gordon Miller, Ady Olvera, Laura Patch, Jamie Salcido
District 5: Tom Lawson, Courtney Masella O’Brien, Nadine Peyrucain, John Stevens, Ben Therriault
At Large: Harry Baker, Jonathan Bash, Edi Birsan, Sue Hamill, Irene Tait, Harry Wiener, De’shawn WoolridgeThe DPCCC also elected four members of the CADEM Executive Board based on a formula allowing for one representative for every 100,000 registered Democrats (or a fraction more). To ensure regional representation, the county was divided into four regions based on a previously enacted procedure. 

The DPCCC’s Executive Board representatives include: Marisol Rubio (South)Susana Williams (East)Michael Nye (West)Jonathan Bash (Central)

ASSEMBLY DISTRICT DELEGATES
Each January of odd-numbered years, California Democrats participate in Assembly District Election Meetings (ADEMs) to elect approximately one-third of the delegates of the California Democratic Party. Any Democrat registered in the assembly district is eligible to run and/or to vote.

Each Assembly District elects seven people who are self-identified females and seven people who are other than self-identified females. From these 14, one person is elected to represent the Assembly District on the CADEM Executive Board (E-Board). Here are the people elected in Assembly Districts that include all of or a part of Contra Costa County (with the E-Board representative indicated with an *):
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 11
Self-Identified Female
Cassandra Jones
Tiffanee Jones *
Julia Routson-Thomas
Verneal D Brumfield
Audrey Jacques
Tazamisha Alexander
Justine A. Fout
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 11
Other than Self-Identified Female
Ricky Gjertsen Jr
Carlos E Flores
Danny Bernardini
Garfield Samuels
Michael Tebo
Chuck Leonard Jr
Justin N Brown
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 14
Self-Identified Female
Cecilia Lunaparra
Ana Vasudeo
Kate Harrison
Dyana Delfin Polk
La Trena Robinson
Sadia Khan
Carol Coyote Cook
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 14
Other than Self-Identified Female
Alfred Twu *
Dan Kalb
Jamin Pursell
Zac Unger
Devin T. Murphy
Jonah Gottlieb
Keane N Chukwuneta
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 15
Self-Identified Female
Amy Scott-Slovick *
Stacie Hinton
Carolyn Bowden 
Amy D Hines-Shaikh
Keisha Nzewi
Jane L Baulch-Enloe
Anamarie Avila FariasA
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 15
Other than Self-Identified Female
Satinder S. Malhi
Victor Benedict Tiglao
Lucas J Stuartchilcote
Cody J Keller
Dominic A Lucero
Mark Plubell
Jason L Lindsey
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 16
Self-Identified Female
Michelle Sinnott Petersen
Marilyn Cachola Lucey *
Brodie Hilp
Cecilia Minalga
Latika Malkani
Deepa Sharma
Katha Hartley
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 16
Other than Self-Identified Female
Richard Adler
Patrick Vanier 
Iman Novin
Tom Duckworth
Aram Hodess
Dan Torres
Kevin Pereau

VOLUNTEER ACTIVISM OPPORTUNITIES
“We must be the nation we have always been when we are at our best: Optimistic. Hopeful. Forward-looking. A nation that embraces light over darkness, hope over fear, and unity over division. Stability over chaos.”—President Biden

YOUR ACTIONS CAN MOVE WISCONSIN FORWARD! Join Contra Costa Democrats and the Bay Area Coalition to get out the vote for the April 4th Wisconsin state Supreme Court election. This is an all-hands-on-deck effort to flip the state Supreme Court—with abortion, voting rights, and redistricting all up for grabs.  https://www.mobilize.us/cadems/event/551801/Join us every Wednesday from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. until the election on April 4th. Whether you are an experienced phone banker or this is your first time, join us to make calls. 
Wisconsin Needs Your Help!

REGISTERING VOTERS MAKES A DIFFERENCE!

Sign up for one of these voter registration actions with Field Team 6…phone banks, social storming, and postcarding!  Making sure people are registered to vote is the #1 most effective way to make a difference.https://www.mobilize.us/cadems/event/547486/https://www.mobilize.us/cadems/event/458035/https://www.mobilize.us/cadems/event/429841/

GET INVOLVED AND TAKE ACTION! For more information on volunteering, contact Cecilia at volunteer@contracostadems.com or call 510-693-4259!

RESOLUTIONS AND LEGISLATION
The DPCCC adopted the following proclamations and resolutions at its February 16, 2023, meeting:
Proclamation Supporting 2023 Women’s History Month
Resolution Stop the Privatization of Traditional Medicare via the ACO-REACH Program
You can learn more about the Issues Committee’s process for reviewing legislation, resolutions, and proclamations by reading its submission guidelines and application for consideration

You can review an index and full text of the Resolutions adopted by the DPCCC since 2020 and Legislative Trackers including all of the bills on which the DPCCC has taken a position since 2021 in this Google Drive folder.


CADEM DELEGATE TRAINING
DPCCC District 4 Director Ady Olvera is hosting a Progressive Delegates 411 workshop.

Did you recently get elected as a delegate for ADEM via a ballot, and/or the DSCC at a DPCCC meeting? Join this upcoming workshop on Saturday, March 11th, to learn how to maximize your role as a delegate within the California Democratic Party at the convention and more. 

In honor of Women’s History Month, come learn from amazing leaders and delegates Marisol Rubio, Amy Scott Slovick, Keisha Nzewi, and Susana Williams. Register at: bit.ly/delegates411to receive zoom link information.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Supervisor Ken Carlson invites you to the James Moriarty St. Patrick’s Day Fundraiser Dinner on Friday, March 17, from 6-9 p.m. at UA Local 342, 935 Detroit Ave., Concord, CA 94518. This will be an evening for fun and networking with a traditional Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner. Dinner will start at 7 p.m. Click here to get your tickets!

Join Rep. Mark DeSaulnier for his Birthday Celebration Reception on March 25 from 2-4 p.m. at UA Local 342, 935 Detroit Ave., Concord, CA 94518. Click here to purchase your event tickets!

DPCCC EVENT CALENDAR
Click here to see the DPCCC Event Calendar, including events to which all DPCCC members are invited. To request the addition of an item to the calendar, please email secretary@contracostadems.com

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK
Do you have any questions or feedback about this DPCCC Newsletter? We would love to hear from you! Please send your comments to commsdir@contracostadems.com
Copyright © 2023 secretary@contracostadems.com, All rights reserved. 
You are receiving this email because you are a paid member of the DPCCC. 

Our mailing address is: 
secretary@contracostadems.com
Democratic Party of Contra Costa County
Martinez, CA 94553

Governor Newsom’s 2023 Inaugural Address


Governor Newsom’s Inaugural Address as Prepared for Delivery
(Click HERE to watch video of Inaugural Address)

Time has done its usual trick on me.

It says it has been four years since I stood in the shadow of this Capitol and delivered my first inaugural address.

Four years, disaster and plague, they bend the clock in strange ways.

It feels like both a flash, and an eternity.

In the longest hours of my first term, trying to plot a course through pandemic, wildfire, mass shootings, and social unrest … I found myself looking backward, as much as I was looking forward.

I recalled the late-1970s, when I was 10 or 11 years old, a child of divorce and dyslexia, trying to find my bearings.

I was a kid, traveling back and forth across the Golden Gate Bridge, between the two very different lives of my mother and father.

I couldn’t read, and was looking for any way to ditch classes. I’d fake stomach aches and dizziness. I’d bite down on the thermometer in the nurse’s office trying to make the temperature rise past 100.

My mom, busy juggling three jobs, had no patience for a truant.

My father, the judge, guilty because he had left us, was an easier touch.

I remember one time during the middle of school, when he picked me up in his Volkswagen bug, and took me to San Francisco’s Chinatown.

On its face, this was a mission for food.

But I didn’t understand back then, it was also HIS mission, to give me a slice of San Francisco, our place, and the story of California.

We crossed one of the many demarcations in the city, and suddenly we had entered another realm.

Through the gate at the intersection of Bush and Grant, my eyes and nose took it all in.

Pagoda-style storefronts. Red lanterns hanging from above. Giant statues of Buddha in the windows. Roasted duck. Fresh baked cookies.

My father wasn’t content with just showing me the unfamiliar. He wanted me to see past the façade, to the people themselves.

The humble entrepreneurs and immigrant parents, building better lives for their kids. To the journey that had brought them to enrich our city – and our state.

This was the same California that drew my great, great grandparents from County Cork in Ireland to start a new life during the first years of California’s statehood.

William Newsom the first, became a beat cop in San Francisco. And the Newsoms began to plant roots as working-class Irish, in a land where anything was possible.

The journey from policeman to politician took 150 years.

My wife Jennifer, the First Partner, is the second in her family to be born in the Golden State.

My children – Montana, Hunter, Brooklyn, and Dutch – now 5th generation Californians.

And all of you here today. No two California origin stories are the same, but we share aspirations, and ambitions.

These ties bind us, sometimes unknowingly, to our state’s past – and to each other.

I remember hot summer days with my dad, riding a raft down wild stretches of the American River. Those cold waters were the same ones where James Marshall found gold nuggets that would sell the California Dream to the world, and alter the course of American history.

But I’m mindful that there’s another side to that story, not the fairytale.

California’s statehood, after all, was also sealed with a brutal genocide against native people.

Reconciling that complexity has always guided my own understanding of myself, and of the state that I love so deeply.

The shameful chapters of our history do not lessen my love for my home state. They make it more complicated, yes, deeper, richer, and serve as a reminder that we can always become better.

The California that beckoned my forebears 170 years ago had a population of 93,000. Today, we’re nearly 40 million strong, each with our own California story.

I hear the echoes of my own family’s story in those who are still coming to California to pursue their dreams, drawn by the myth and magic of this place.

I hear the echoes in the stories of migrants that cross our southern border seeking something better.

In people who come from every continent on earth to flee political persecution, or from other states to educate themselves in our world-class universities, to start businesses that support their families, or change the world.

Whether your family came here for work, or for safety, California offered freedom to access it, not contingent on you looking a certain way, talking a certain way, thinking a certain way.

And that’s what makes California special – it’s in our genes. We’re a state of dreamers and doers. Bound by our live-and-let-live embrace of personal freedom.

But like I’ve said, we’ve made mistakes … Lord knows we’ve made our share.

Let’s not forget, the Chinatown I visited as a boy is a remnant of the bigotry of agitator Denis Kearney, and the Chinese Exclusion Act of the 1880s.

Tens of thousands of Japanese Americans were interned right here during World War II.

In the post-war era, as California’s suburbs grew, the racist practice of exclusionary zoning took hold, denying Black, Asian, Armenian and Latino residents the right to live on the good side of town and build wealth.

This planted the seeds of the housing and homeless crisis we face today.

Even California indulged homophobic hate at the ballot box, with the Briggs Initiative – the 1970s version of “Don’t Say Gay.”

And of course, the 1990s brought a wave of anti-immigrant xenophobia, manifesting in Proposition 187.

These are dark moments in California’s journey. But in the end, we confronted our errors with humility and conviction, paving the way for rights and freedom to prevail.

Every day, California commits itself to the process of getting it right for the next generation.

In nearly 30 years in politics, I have had the opportunity to see this process firsthand, learning as we go, and etching these learnings on the consciousness of a country that perhaps hasn’t yet caught up.

When we started issuing same-sex marriage licenses in San Francisco in 2004, it felt as if history moved at light-speed, in the right direction, decades of advocacy culminating in that beautiful Winter of Love.

But that victory, to expand rights and freedom to marry, was snatched away by a backlash that resulted in Proposition 8.

Eventually, after many setbacks, and many steps forward, just a few weeks ago, President Biden signed legislation enshrining the freedom to marry.

That has been the story of progress throughout our history.

It is not always easy, and not always linear.

But in the end, the verdict is clear – expanding rights is always the right thing to do.

And yet, there are still forces in America that want to take the nation backward.

We saw that two years ago, on this day, when the unthinkable happened at a place most Americans assumed was invincible.

An insurrectionist mob ransacking a sacred pillar of our democracy, violently clashing with sworn officers upholding the rule of law.

Just like the brave men and women whose heroism we inscribe, here on our own Peace Officers’ Memorial.

Since that terrible day, we’ve wrestled with what those events say about us as a country.

The ugliness that overflowed on January 6th, 2021, was in fact decades in the making. Fomented by people who have a very different vision of America’s future.

Red state politicians, and the media empire behind them, selling regression as progress, oppression as freedom.

And as we know too well, there is nothing original about their demagoguery.

All across the nation, anxiety about social change has awakened long-dormant authoritarian impulses.

Calling into question what America is to become, freer and fairer … or reverting to a darker past.

Instead of finding solutions, these politicians void of any new ideas, pursuing power at any cost, prey upon our fears and paranoias.

“The struggle to be who we ought to be,” as a nation is difficult and demanding.

And that’s why we should be clear-eyed about their aims.

They’re promoting grievance and victimhood, in an attempt to erase so much of the progress you and I have witnessed in our lifetimes.

They make it harder to vote and easier to buy illegal guns.

They silence speech, fire teachers, kidnap migrants, subjugate women, attack the Special Olympics, and even demonize Mickey Mouse.

All camouflaged under a hijacking of the word “freedom.”

But what they really want is more control – intrusive government, command over your most intimate decisions – when to have a family, how you raise your kids, how you love.

While they cry freedom, they dictate the choices people are allowed to make. Fanning the flames of these exhausting culture wars. Banning abortion, banning books, banning free speech in the classroom, and in the boardroom.

They sell fear and panic when it comes to crime and immigration.

But they sell calm and indifference when the threat is greenhouse gases destroying our planet, or big oil raking in windfall profits at your expense.

But California offers reason for hope.

“There is no soil better adapted” to liberty and opportunity – the sense of possibility, than here in our home state.

Now, the fourth largest economy in the world.

The most venture capital and startups in America.

Leading the world in the transition to a low-carbon, green growth future.

An advanced industrial economy in biotherapeutics, genomics. Aerospace and battery storage.

High-speed internet connecting the Central Valley to the Central Coast.

Rebuilding roads from Yreka to San Ysidro.

Providing clean water from Colusa to Coachella.

A new Cal Poly in Humboldt, conveying more scientists, engineers, researchers, Nobel laureates than any other state.

Debt free college for hundreds of thousands of students…

And the largest state volunteer corps in America.

I am mindful, though, that California, like the nation, is two rivers at once, a mix of light and shadows.

So as we go forward, we must continue our quest for an honest accounting of where we’ve fallen short: on affordability, on housing, on homelessness.

In our pursuit of belonging, and equal justice, California must be the enduring proof of concept.

We must reconcile our shortcomings. Bring everyone along in our prosperity.

After all, a healthy democracy must be inclusive.

Government by the people and for the people, requires people willing to fight to protect and advance it.

Just like Californians did last year, when we overwhelmingly voted to enshrine reproductive rights into our State Constitution.

We chose choice.

In our finest hours, California has been freedom’s force multiplier. Protecting liberty from a rising tide of oppression taking root in statehouses.

Weakness, masquerading as strength. Small men in big offices.

More than any people, in any place, California has bridged the historic expanse between freedom for some, and freedom for all.

We open our arms not clench our fists. We turn our gaze upward, not inward.

Freedom is our essence, our brand name – the abiding idea that right here, anyone from anywhere can accomplish anything.

We’ve overcome the destructive impulses of extremism, racism, and nativism.

And shown the rest of America it’s not only achievable – it’s undeniable.

Going forward, California will continue to lead out loud, by advancing a far-reaching freedom agenda.

A full-throated answer to those demagogues of division, determined to regress and oppress.

Freedom for teachers to teach, free of litmus tests about their political party, or the person they love.

Freedom to access health care for all Californians, regardless of their immigration status.

Freedom from Big Pharma’s grip, competing head-on by manufacturing our own life-saving drugs.

Freedom to vote without intimidation, with results decided by the people, not the politicians.

The battle lines are drawn. And yes, once again, it’s time for choosing.

Let’s not forget that policies that started here that were once considered nothing more than romantic possibilities have now become commonplace across the other 49 states.

California “lights out the territory for the rest.”

That’s what we do best. Giving shape to the future – molding the character of the nation.

Just like those rivers that sculpted so many of California’s deepest valleys.

The places of my childhood memories. Those rafting and camping trips with my dad. Falling in love with California. Over and over again.

My father died shortly after I was elected governor in 2018. He never got to see his son assume the office.

Nor did my mother Tessa, who died just before I became Mayor of San Francisco.

Their dreams, their spirit, their love of California, is with me every day.

Just as they were last year, when I found myself with the leaders of California’s most populous tribe, the Yurok. Floating down another great river, the Klamath, in a traditional dugout canoe.

We stopped for dinner on the riverbank and prepared salmon smoked on redwood, over a traditional firepit.

The bark infused flavor into the fish, imparting a taste familiar to the Yurok people stretching back to their earliest ancestors.

Just a few weeks ago, I returned to the Klamath and met with Yurok, Karuk, and Klamath tribal leaders.

This time, to celebrate the removal of four dams … America’s largest dam removal project in history.

Setting the river free once more, restoring natural salmon runs and in so doing, righting a historical wrong.

Because this is what California does. And it’s what I’ve dedicated my life to.

Standing up for ideals, striking out against injustice.

After all, history reminds us that each of us will be judged … and ultimately judge ourselves, to the extent we contribute, as Bobby Kennedy said, to the life of our cities, our state, our nation, and the world we are trying to build.

That brings me back to time.

Time is undefeated, it is relentless.

So in our fleeting moment, we must fight against our worst impulses, and find our better angels.

Because at the end of the day, our lives are just too short, our wisdom too limited, to win fleeting victories at other people’s expense.

We must all triumph together.

Thank you.

December 2022 Newsletter

DECEMBER 2022 NEWSLETTER
CHAIR’S MESSAGE: I think it has been an incredible year!

I am so pleased we could get together earlier this month for our first in-person Holiday Party since 2019. It was a wonderful time to celebrate on behalf of our endorsed candidates and all the volunteers who walked neighborhoods, distributed door hangers, phone banked, sent text messages, or donated to our endorsed candidates during this election.

We have accomplished a great deal, starting with our successful efforts to defeat the recall effort against Governor Newsom in the fall of 2021. We have much to celebrate in 2022, including:The re-election of District Attorney Diana Becton! The election of Ken Carlson to the County Board of Supervisors! Wins by over 70 percent of our endorsed candidates in the general election! Stopping radical conservative efforts to take over school boards! Increasing the number of our volunteers! Strengthening our finances with more donors! Seeing Democrats win a 51-49 majority in the United States Senate!Winning all of California’s statewide offices! Stopping the mythical red tsunami! These successes were possible only because Contra Costa Democrats and Chartered Clubs worked hard during this election season. You’ll learn more about this work in the elections recap that follows below. We also demonstrated how every vote counts with the recount victories last week for Tamisha Torres-Walker in Antioch and Cesar Zepeda in Richmond. 

We’ve done a lot. We’ve learned a lot. And I know we will continue to build and strengthen our party in 2023. Stay healthy, and Happy New Year!

Katie Ricklefs
Chair, Democratic Party of Contra Costa County

OUR ENDORSED CANDIDATES WON MORE THAN 70% OF THEIR RACES
We have been busy with three election cycles in just 15 months, starting with our work to defeat the recall against Governor Gavin Newsom in September 2021, the primary elections in June 2022, and the general election in November 2022. 

A collage of photos from 2022 campaign events
With each of these elections, the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County, thanks to the leadership of its Elections Committee Co-Chairs Chuck Carpenter and Rebecca Barrett, built on what we learned to involve more volunteers, distribute more materials, and coordinate with our clubs and allies to get out every possible vote in the general election. Our Democratic team ended the year by: Distributing over 100,000 door hangers Mailing 84,000 slate cards Sending over 270,000 texts to voters Hosting coordinated precinct walks in six cities covering all of Contra Costa County. In addition to these efforts, our elections team set up coordinated precinct walks to support our endorsed candidates. Thank you to Amy Scott-Slovick (Martinez); Monica Wilson (Antioch); Victor Tiglao (Pinole); Rebecca Barrett (Concord), Champagne Brown (El Cerrito); and Sabina Zafar, Marisol Rubio, Sarah Butler, and Chuck Carpenter (San Ramon) for helping organize our volunteers to support our candidates!

As a result of all of this work, our endorsed candidates won over 70 percent of their campaigns in the general election, including: Statewide offices: 100% Congressional seats: 100% County Supervisors: 100% Mayors and City Councils: 72% School and College Boards: 71% Special Districts: 75% We also improved our ability to communicate with voters and respond to severe attacks against our endorsed candidates. For example, in the Board of Supervisors District 4 race supporting Ken Carlson, we responded with a text to every Democratic voter in the district within four hours after a misleading mailer was discovered to clarify that Ken Carlson was the Democrat in that race. We also were successful at defeating efforts by radical Republicans to take over several of our local school boards. 

“Elections work is about one more door. It is hard,” Elections Committee Co-Chair Rebecca Barrett said. “People don’t want to get up early on a weekend to knock on doors, but when your democracy and community are on the line, that’s what is required.”

“In 2022, we fielded some of the strongest, most committed, and most diverse present and future leaders we have ever offered to the voters,” added Elections Committee Co-Chair Chuck Carpenter. “Great candidates build successes, which will motivate new candidates to seek our help. We build the future on today’s foundation.”

Thank you to every person who walked, talked, called, texted, or contributed dollars during the recall, primary, and general elections. Without you, our candidates’ success would not have been possible. 

CONTRA COSTA DEMOCRATS CELEBRATE AT HOLIDAY PARTY
The Democratic Party of Contra Costa County hosted its first in-person Holiday Party since 2019 on Friday, December 16. 

Recruitment Committee Chair Cody Keller with caterer Cindy Gershen
We want to thank UA Local 342 for hosting and giving us the opportunity to thank our volunteers and celebrate our election victories. Recruitment Committee Chair Cody Keller did an outstanding job organizing this event, and people once again enjoyed the catering provided by Cindy Gershen. 

In addition to having the chance to gather together, attendees also heard updates about the efforts of our Committees over the past year, from fundraising to issues, to elections in Contra Costa County and the Central Valley. 

County Supervisor Ken Carlson speaks to the Holiday Party
Successful County Board of Supervisors District 4 Candidate Ken Carlson told the crowd, “I want to say thank you for how Democrats came together to support my campaign and other endorsed candidates. We still have a lot of work to do together in the future. There are more open seats in the next election, and we need to be prepared for what is coming our way.”

Congressmember Mark DeSaulnier speaks at the Holiday Party
Congress member Mark DeSaulnier also thanked Democrats for their work and urged them to continue their efforts. “There are people who are organizing today because they don’t like that young people and people of color are gaining more of a say in our society. We have to get up every day and work because we cannot assume the future will be okay. The future will only be okay if we fight for it.”

Chair Katie Ricklefs also honored several of our volunteers with year-end awards. These included: Chair’s Pick (for the person who best represents what the DPCCC stands for): Carolina Villaseca Full Enthusiasm (for the person who exemplifies energy with excitement, rallying, and fun: Justin Brown and Champagne Brown Grace Under Fire (for the person who held their own under difficult circumstances): Endorsement Committee Co-Chairs Tamela Hawley and Irene Tait Dedicated Democrat (for the person who stepped up when needed and persevered): Amy Scott-Slovick Organizer Extraordinaire (for the person who raised money or was there to move things along in an ordinary fashion): Sue Hamill and Rebecca Barrett Best Dance Partner (fun and self-explanatory): Carolyn Wysinger and Marisol Rubio Went the Distance (person who literally went the distance for our candidates): Sarah Butler and Cecilia Minalga
College of the Holiday Party Award Winners

Holiday Party Group Photo

Holiday Party Group Photo 2

Holiday Party Group Photo 3

Holiday Party Group Photo

THANK YOU TO OUR HOLIDAY PARTY SPONSORS
Thank you to the sponsors of our 2022 Holiday Party! Your support helped us have a successful night celebrating our volunteers and our endorsed candidates! 

Holiday Party Sponsor List

VOLUNTEER ACTIVISM REPORT FOR 2022
Contra Costa Democrats continued and expanded our volunteer activist group efforts in 2022. With the spirit to promote and support activities or contacts led by other clubs, labor, and groups, we actively partnered with local organizations, as well as other Central Committees, labor, and grassroots organizations. 

We accomplished so much, and Contra Costa Democrats are trending as the “go-to” organization for Bay Area activism. There is certainly extensive planning and work still to be accomplished as we expand and evolve toward the 2024 elections.  

Founding Partner of Bay Area Coalition – The Coalition launched in early 2022 to harness the power of Bay Area activists to win elections in key races to promote a democratic, equitable, and just society, focusing on California Central Valley, Arizona, and Nevada. We were joined by more than 20 partners, including six SwingLeft groups, East Bay Activist Alliance, Commit to Democracy, Democracy Action Marin, Santa Clara, San Mateo, and San Francisco central committees.Our congressional leaders, led by Congressmembers Garamendi and Lee, organized close to $30,000 in funds for our partner Central Committees to support CD22 canvasser gas, hotel, food, and supply costs. In addition to their direct help, they arranged for funds received from Congressmembers DeSaulnier, Eshoo, Thompson, and Lofgren. Additionally, CADEM provided CD22 lunches of almost $2,500, plus ballot-curing hotel rooms.To promote our volunteer actions, we created Training and Speaker Series programs, with recordings on our Bay Area Coalition YouTube channel. These included:Motivational interviewing and Telling your Personal Story trainingSpeakers Dan Pfeiffer and Mike LuxAlthough CD22 was our primary canvassing focus, we promoted door knocks for Josh Harder (CD9) in coordination with his campaign team and Adam Gray (CD13) in coordination with the North Valley Labor Federation. Despite our Central Valley outcomes, I’m proud of what we accomplished leading up to the election:Summary of Central Valley Canvassing efforts in 2022

Partnership with Central Valley Matters – Contra Costa Democrats partnered with Central Valley Matters (https://www.centralvalleymatters.org/), a group of Bay Area volunteers that raises funds for grassroots groups in the Central Valley…and, as of today, raised $500,000 for these very deserving organizations. Central Valley Matters, like the Bay Area Coalition, is an all-volunteer group. CD22 Next Steps Steering Group Representing Contra Costa Democrats, Cecilia Minalga remains an active member of this statewide group supporting CD22. Field Team 6 Partnership Contra Costa Democrats continue to partner with FT6 to promote both their California and national virtual actions.

Communications Team We continue to support the communications team, who launched our new and improved DPCCC website. Sent 27 Action Network email blasts to our mail lists of over 9K contacts, of which over 5K are in the Contra Costa county area. Mobilize postings, via CADEM account. This continues to be an effective promotion tool for local, California, and national actions, in addition to supplying new “opted-in” contacts from all our events. We appreciate all of the work that Cecilia Minalga has done to organize our efforts in the Central Valley. As Central Valley Matters put it in a post-campaign mailing, “Although there are way too many people to thank individually, we do want to give a special thank you to Cecilia Minalga for her tireless leadership throughout our canvassing process.”

DPCCC DUES ARE DUE JANUARY 1
To remain a member in good standing, which enables DPCCC members to vote in the upcoming DPCCC Organizational Meeting elections on January 19, 2023, you must pay your DPCCC dues by January 1, 2023. 

Please click here to pay your dues ($40 for Regular Members; $24 for Associate Members). If your dues are not paid by the deadline, you cannot vote at our January 19, 2023, Organizational Meeting!

DPCCC REORGANIZATIONAL MEETING ON JANUARY 19, 2023
On Thursday, January 19, 2023, the DPCCC will hold a membership meeting focused on our organizational structure for the next two years.

Regular members in good standing will vote for DPCCC Officers (Chair, First Vice Chair, Second Vice Chair, Controller, and Secretary). Regular and Associate Members in good standing (dues paid) will vote for District Directors and DPCCC Delegates to CADEM. DPCCC Dues must be paid by January 1, 2023. Click here to pay your DPCCC dues now.

DPCCC Officers
To date, several candidates have submitted Candidate Statements for DPCCC Officer positions (Chair, First Vice Chair, Second Vice Chair, Controller, and Secretary).  

To view all Candidate Statements, go to candidatestatements.contracostadems.com. Nominations for these positions will remain open until January 19th, and you can submit a candidate statement by emailing it to secretary@contracostadems.com.  You can also click hereto learn more about the responsibilities of these positions.

District Directors
After the election of our Officers, we will split into Supervisorial District caucuses, where we will vote for District Directors and CADEM Delegates. To view all Candidate Statements submitted so far for District Directors, please visit candidatestatements.contracostadems.com.

DPCCC Delegates to CADEM
For more details about these elections, please click here. Candidates who seek election as a Delegate to the Democratic State Central Committee are encouraged to submit a Candidate Statement. Click here for the DSCCC Candidate Statement Form. 

REGISTER TO VOTE FOR THE
CADEM ASSEMBLY DISTRICT DELEGATE ELECTIONS

Don’t forget that the California Democratic Party’s ADEM Vote By Mail Participant Registration window closes on December 31, 2022. 

Assembly District Delegates are elected at CADEM Assembly District Elections Meetings held in each of the state’s 80 Assembly Districts in January of each odd-numbered year. Each Assembly District will elect seven “self-identified female” and seven “other than self-identified female” delegates and one Executive Board member.

You can click here to register to vote by mail or in person for your Assembly District’s ADEM election. To learn more about what an Assembly District Delegate does, please click here

To see the list of candidates for whom you can vote for in your district, click on the links below:
District 11 (Discovery Bay/Knightsen/Oakley)
District 14 (Albany/Berkeley/El Cerrito/El Sobrante/Hercules/Pinole/Richmond/San Pablo)
District 15 (Antioch/Bay Point/Brentwood/Clayton/Concord/Martinez/Pleasant Hill/Pittsburg)
District 16 (Alamo/Blackhawk/Danville/Lafayette/Moraga/Orinda/San Ramon/Walnut Creek)These Assembly Districts are new after redistricting. 

Please click here if you would like to confirm the Assembly District in which you live. 

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK
Do you have any questions or feedback about this DPCCC Newsletter? We would love to hear from you! Please send your comments to commsdir@contracostadems.com
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November 2022 Newsletter

NOVEMBER 2022 NEWSLETTER
CHAIR’S MESSAGE
I want to thank each and every one of you who walked neighborhoods, distributed door hangers, phone banked, texted, donated, and supported our endorsed candidates during this election.

Contra Costa Democrats and Chartered Clubs worked hard to help elect great candidates across the county. We walked neighborhoods and distributed over 100,000 door hangers, mailed 84,000 slate cards, sent over 270,000 texts to voters, and phone banked for hours. I am also happy to share that our newly designed website received over 48,000 unique user visits focusing on our 2022 election pages.

We may be exhausted, but I think we all have a right to feel very proud of our work. We are still waiting for the final results in a few races, but so far we know we helped elect 44 of our 68 endorsed candidates, a win ratio of 65 percent.

There were many close elections, proving once again that our work is vital because every vote counts!

Finally, please plan to celebrate all of our efforts on Friday, December 16, when our DPCCC Holiday Party will be held at the UA Local 342 Union Hall at 935 Detroit Avenue in Concord starting at 6:30 p.m. More details about the Holiday Party are included below in this newsletter, and early-bird tickets are available now!

Stay healthy and enjoy your holidays,

Katie Ricklefs
Chair, Democratic Party of Contra Costa County

DPCCC HOLIDAY PARTY IN CONCORD ON FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16
Join us in Concord at UA Local 342 for an indoor, festive, and fun Holiday Party starting at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, December 16! Click here to get your tickets or get a sponsorship now!

Early-bird prices are available through 11:59 p.m. on December 2!

The Union Hall is located at 935 Detroit Avenue in Concord. We will provide food and drinks and present some fun awards! The party will run from 6:30-9:30 p.m.

We are asking our attendees to bring nonperishable food items for a Concord & Solano Food Bank Donation Bin. Donations are down, and so we want to give back while we celebrate.

Masks will be encouraged, and we will have a health check at the door. So dress your best for photos, come to socialize, and celebrate with friends, new members, and our candidates who ran for office this year! We’ll hear briefly from our club leaders on our 2022 annual report and from electeds. We’ll finish off with some club awards as we look ahead to 2023.

NOVEMBER MEETING REPORT
The DPCCC’s November 17 Membership Meeting featured a review of our activities to help our candidates and get out the vote for the November election in Contra Costa County and the Central Valley. We will have a summary of all of this work in our next newsletter, including details about specific efforts to combat misinformation impacting one of our endorsed candidates.

DPCCC members deliberated and passed a revised procedure for electing Central Committee delegates to the California Democratic Party. This election will happen at our January 2023 Organizational Meeting. More details will be posted on the DPCCC website soon. 

Chair Katie Ricklefs reminded everyone that the end of the year brings the end of the term for our current officers and committee leaders. So this is the time for people to start thinking about the possible roles they may wish to have in January 2023. All of our members should pay their dues now so they won’t have to worry about the deadline to be a member in good standing to vote during our January 19, 2023, biennial Organizational Meeting. More details about these elections will also be posted on the DPCCC website soon.

Finally, there will not be a regular Membership Meeting in December, so join us for our Holiday Party in Concord on Friday, December 16!

Would you like to learn more? Under DPCCC’s file access policy, access to all non-confidential DPCCC files is available to any DPCCC member (including Associates) upon request by emailing the Secretary. You can pay your dues by clicking here!

If you are not a DPCCC member and wish to attend the monthly membership meeting, which is typically held on the third Thursday of the month, please RSVP to the DPCCC Secretary at secretary@contracostadems.com. If you are a DPCCC member, you should receive an email with details for the meeting about seven days in advance. If you do not, please email the DPCCC Secretary at secretary@contracostadems.com.


AN APPRECIATION FOR REPRESENTATIVE JERRY MCNERNEY
You are cordially invited to attend the Appreciation Celebration for Representative Jerry McNerney on Sunday, December 4th, from 2–5 pm at Brentwood’s Co.Co. County Wine Company at 633 1st Street in Brentwood.  

This event is sponsored by the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County, the Marsh Creek Democratic Club, and the San Joaquin County Democratic Party.  

To reserve your space, please RSVP to mcvillaseca@yahoo.com. We hope to see you there!

CONSIDER RUNNING TO BECOME A CALIFORNIA DEMOCRATIC PARTY 
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT DELEGATE


Do you want to have more influence in the California Democratic Party (CADEM)? Then consider running to become an Assembly District Delegate or Executive Board Member!

Assembly District Delegates are elected at CADEM Assembly District Elections Meetings held in each of the state’s 80 Assembly Districts in January of each odd-numbered year. So the next election is coming up in January 2023! Click here to learn more about these positions and the voting process on the CADEM website.

Each Assembly District will elect seven “self-identified female” and seven “other than self-identified female” delegates and one Executive Board member. To run for Assembly District Delegate, you must register as a candidate by noon on Friday, December 9. Click here to register!

Becoming an Assembly District Delegate gives you the opportunity to:  Increase your political impact by voting for the endorsements of the California Democratic Party for partisan legislative and statewide office in California, vote for positions CADEM takes on the Ballot Propositions, build a community with passionate and diverse California Democrats, take on greater responsibility as a voice for your local district when establishing the official California Democratic State Platform (in even-numbered years), and elect 16-25 CADEM Regional Directors who function as your liaison between the California Democratic Party, County Central Committees, and Democratic Party Clubs. All California Democrats can run to become an Assembly District Delegate or vote in this Assembly District Election. 

Registration to vote by mail or in person in these elections will open at noon on Monday, December 12, at this website. More details will be shared in December. 

RESOLUTIONS AND LEGISLATION
The DPCCC adopted the following proclamations and resolutions at its November 17, 2022, meeting:
Proclamation Recognizing February 2023 as Black History Month
Resolution Supporting the Rights of the People of Iran to Free Expression and Standing in Solidarity with the Women and People of Iran
Resolution in Support of a State Windfall Profits Tax on Oil Corporations
You can learn more about the Issues Committee’s process for reviewing legislation, resolutions, and proclamations by reading its submission guidelines and application for consideration

You can review an index of the Resolutions adopted by the DPCCC since 2022 and a Legislative Tracker of all the bills on which the DPCCC has taken a position during the 2021-22 session.


DPCCC EVENT CALENDAR
This calendar is for DPCCC and other Democratic Party events to which all DPCCC members are invited. To request the addition of an item to the calendar, please email secretary@contracostadems.com. Click on the DPCCC EVENT CALENDAR to get more details!

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK
Do you have any questions or feedback about this DPCCC Newsletter? We would love to hear from you! Please send your comments to commsdir@contracostadems.com

September 2022 DPCCC Newsletter


SEPTEMBER 2022 NEWSLETTER
CHAIR’S MESSAGE
The election is almost here—voters will start to receive their 2022 general election ballots in just over two weeks. I hope you will join me in working every day to help elect our candidates. 

The Democratic Party of Contra Costa County has endorsed 68 candidates for offices ranging from Ken Carlson for the County Board of Supervisors to the city councils, school boards, and special districts throughout the county. Our candidates represent the diversity of our county, with 21 being first-time candidates. Each one needs our support to win and make a difference for their community. You can see more about these candidates in a story later in this newsletter. 

Getting Ken Carlson elected to the Board of Supervisors is one of our top priorities. His election could change the board’s balance for many years to come. If Ken wins, our priority issues and values have a chance to be realized. If Ken loses, our push for housing, healthcare, social justice, climate sustainability, and economic equity will all suffer. This is a race with generational importance. Please add your energy and voice.

I want to urge you to join me in picking a few key races at the local level to get involved in and help us Get Out the Vote! In addition to Ken’s campaign for the Board of Supervisors, other local candidates are facing coordinated efforts to get MAGA Republicans elected to our school boards. 

Please pick a few campaigns to help by knocking on doors, making phone calls, sending texts, or making contributions. A few hours a week will help us elect our 68 locally endorsed candidates and our statewide and Congressional officials. You also will see later in this newsletter how you can take action to help Democrats win close elections in the Central Valley and keep our House majority. 

It is a lot of work. But I believe electing Democrats is the reason we are here. Let me know if you have any questions. You can email me at chair@contracostadems.com.

I hope to see you on the campaign trail! Stay healthy and strong,

Katie Ricklefs
Chair, Democratic Party of Contra Costa County

SEPTEMBER MEETING REPORT
The DPCCC’s September 15 Membership Meeting featured the wrap-up of our endorsement process, a report from our Issues Committee (see report later in this newsletter), and updates from our committees on the work they are doing to prepare for election day.

Chair Katie Ricklefs thanked Tamela Hawley and Irene Tait for their excellent handling of the endorsement process, working with our District Directors and endorsement committee members. 

Chair Ricklefs also announced that she was appointing Jeff Koertzen and Robyn Kuslits as the Ad-Hoc Transition Committee for the January 19, 2023, DPCCC Organizational Meeting.

First Chair Susana Williams announced that Rebecca Barrett was appointed to co-chair our Elections Committee, joining Chuck Carpenter. The two co-chairs have talked with the District Directors and endorsed candidates, especially new candidates and have received input on what our priority races should be from them and our club leadership. We learned more about what all of our members can do to help elect our endorsed candidates. 

DPCCC members discussed and approved a revised budget for the rest of the year. 

Communications Director Jan Bell reported on updates to the DPCCC website to showcase endorsed candidates and encouraged people to provide feedback about this newsletter at commsdir@contracostadems.com

Would you like to learn more? Under DPCCC’s file access policy, access to all non-confidential DPCCC files is available to any DPCCC member (including Associates) upon request by emailing the Secretary. You can pay your dues by clicking here!

If you are not a DPCCC member and wish to attend the monthly membership meeting, which is typically held on the third Thursday of the month, please RSVP to the DPCCC Secretary at secretary@contracostadems.com. If you are a DPCCC member, you should receive an email with details for the meeting about seven days in advance. If you do not, please email the DPCCC Secretary at secretary@contracostadems.com.


DPCCC ENDORSES 68 CANDIDATES FOR THE NOVEMBER ELECTION
The Democratic Party of Contra Costa County has endorsed 68 candidates for local offices. These endorsements include the County Board of Supervisors, city councils, school boards, and special districts. 

The DPCCC’s website has the full list of these endorsed candidates, grouped by east, central/south, and west county. Our endorsement website includes candidate questionnaires, campaign videos, and other useful information. 

The DPCCC has also endorsed Measure K, a Martinez Unified School District Bond, and Measure Q, a Voter Protected Open Space Initiative for the City of Brentwood.

You can also see the California Democratic Party’s endorsements for federal and statewide offices and the statewide propositions on the November ballot. 

Most importantly, remember to VOTE by November 8th and donate or volunteer for Democrats running for office!

TAKE ACTIONCalling all volunteers, phone bankers, and canvassers! 
The path to the next House majority goes through California

Join Contra Costa Democrats for a one-day bus trip to work some canvassing magic in Tulare on Saturday, October 15. 
https://www.mobilize.us/cadems/event/514161/

Join Contra Costa Democrats as we turn voices into votes…calling voters in Kern and Kings counties on Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m., Wednesdays at 5 p.m., Saturdays at 10 a.m., and Sundays at 1 p.m. 
https://www.mobilize.us/cadems/event/439762/

Knock doors every Saturday in Hanford, Kings County, through election day!
https://www.mobilize.us/cadems/event/445111

Knock doors on Fridays through Sundays, beginning on September 30 in Bakersfield, Kern County, through election day!
https://www.mobilize.us/cadems/event/494449

For more information on volunteering, contact Cecilia at volunteer@contracostadems.comor call 510-693-4259.

RESOLUTIONS AND LEGISLATION
The DPCCC adopted the following proclamations and resolutions at its September 15, 2022, meeting:
Proclamation in Support of Veteran’s Day 2022
Proclamation In Celebration of American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, November 1 – 30, 2022;
California Native American Day, September 23, 2022; and National Day of Recognition of Native American Heritage, November 25, 2022
Resolution Urging that the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors conduct Open Study Sessions on Critical Contra Costa County Sheriff Department Functions Related to the Internal Investigations Process from an Equity Lens, Including Potential Oversight Mechanisms
Resolution Re-Committing to Core Principles of Our Democracy—Free & Fair Elections

The DPCCC voted at its September 15, 2022, meeting to take positions on the following statewide and local measures on the November 2022 general election ballot:

SUPPORT Proposition 1 (Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment to the California State Constitution). Click here to read the Issues Committee Application.

SUPPORT Measure K, Martinez Unified School District Bond. Click here to read the Issues Committee Application.

 SUPPORT Measure Q, City of Brentwood Voter-Protected Open-Space Initiative. Click here to read the Issues Committee Application.

You can learn more about the Issues Committee’s process for reviewing legislation, resolutions, and proclamations by reading its submission guidelines and application for consideration

You can review an index of the Resolutions adopted by the DPCCC since 2022 and a Legislative Tracker of all the bills on which the DPCCC has taken a position during the 2021-22 session.
SUPPORT OUR ENDORSED CANDIDATES Our Communications team is posting canvassing and fundraising events for our endorsed candidates on the DPCCC website and the DPCCC’s event calendar

There are events all around Contra Costa County. Please support as many of our endorsed candidates as you can as Democrats work to get them elected this November!

ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Alameda County Democratic Party is hosting its 50th Anniversary Democratic Unity Dinner at the Oakland Airport Hilton on Saturday, September 24, at 6 p.m. Click here for more information and to purchase tickets. 
 
If you have an announcement you would like us to consider including in next month’s newsletter, please email commsdir@contracostadems.com

DPCCC EVENT CALENDAR
This calendar is for DPCCC and other Democratic Party events to which all DPCCC members are invited. To request the addition of an item to the calendar, please email secretary@contracostadems.com. Please click HERE to go to the DPCCC Calendar.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK
Do you have any questions or feedback about this DPCCC Newsletter? We would love to hear from you! Please send your comments to commsdir@contracostadems.com

August 2022 DPCCC Newsletter

 
AUGUST 2022 NEWSLETTER
CHAIR’S MESSAGE

At our August 18 General Membership meeting, DPCCC members heard an important message from Planned Parenthood Northern California (PPNC) President and CEO Gilda Gonzales and Director of Public Affairs Margaret Martinez Franks. 

I appreciated their update and the call to action they shared with us. You can read more about their presentation in the August Meeting Report. 

Our Endorsements Committee has been hard at work in all five districts preparing to make recommendations for the candidates we should support in the November elections. We will have a lot of work to do to counteract the statewide and national efforts of Republicans and their allies. CalMatters reported on what is happening in school board elections throughout California. I am glad the reporter pointed out what we have been doing to support our school board members in Contra Costa. 
 
Please let me know if you want to learn more about our endorsement and overall election efforts. You can email me at chair@contracostadems.com.

I also hope you are enjoying this edition of our DPCCC newsletter. Please let our Communications Committee know what you think by emailing its Chair, Jan Bell, at commsdir@contracostadems.com
 
Best wishes,

Katie Ricklefs
Chair, Democratic Party of Contra Costa County

AUGUST MEETING REPORT


The DPCCC’s August 18 Membership Meeting featured a presentation by Planned Parenthood Northern California (PPNC) President and CEO Gilda Gonzales and Director of Public Affairs Margaret Martinez Franks. 

Gonzales and Martinez Franks discussed Reproductive Freedom: Meeting the Moment at the Ballot Box. This issue has become even more of a priority for DPCCC members in the wake of the Supreme Court’s recent decision to end the federal right to abortion. 

Martinez Franks explained that California is a Reproductive Freedom State and outlined how California Planned Parenthood Affiliates are the key to fulfilling this commitment.

She introduced DPCCC members to PPNC’s operations that cover 20 California counties from Contra Costa north to the Oregon border. There are six health care centers in Contra Costa County. Overall, PPNC serves over 70,000 patients. Preventative care makes up most of the services provided by PPNC, including sexually transmitted disease screening and treatment, pregnancy testing, contraception services, and cancer screening.

Gonzales then discussed what we could expect in the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. “The situation will get worse before it gets better,” she said. “The only way it will get better is through positive electoral outcomes—and California needs to lead the way.”

Gonzales shared that PPNC, like abortion providers around the country, is dealing with the legal ramifications in the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision and the efforts of abortion-hostile states to criminalize efforts to help people who can become pregnant receive these vital health care services. 

DPCCC members can help with this fight right now have three significant ways. 

First, Gonzales encouraged Democrats to be “all-in on Proposition 1—it is vital for California to send a message.” Proposition 1 will enshrine abortion and birth control access in the California Constitution. Visit YesOn1CA.com to learn more.

Second, support abortion funds like Access Reproductive Justice (ARJ). There is a need not just in hostile-to-abortion states, but also here in California. As ARJ explains, “Reproductive rights are meaningless when you don’t know where to get birth control, no abortion provider accepts your insurance, you are afraid to seek prenatal care because of your immigration status, or the closest clinic is hours from your home.”

Third, she said that we all needed to elevate abortion stories to minimize abortion stigma. “There should be no shame. And this is everybody’s issue,” Gonzales emphasized. 

The DPCCC, through its Issues Committee, has made abortion a focus of the legislation we have supported this year. The DPCCC voted to support several federal bills that attempt to address what the Supreme Court ruled in its Dobbs decision and a concurring opinion by Justice Clarence Thomas. You can review these on the DPCCC’s Legislative Tracker

The DPCCC also adopted the updated California Democratic Party Code of Conduct. The DPCC will share it with candidates seeking the DPCCC’s endorsement. The DPCCC will also ask its chartered clubs to review the Code of Conduct and consider adopting it. 

The Elections Committee is preparing to support the candidates the DPCCC endorses at its Special Membership Meeting on September 1 at 6 p.m. via Zoom. Elections Committee Chair Chuck Carpenter noted that our school board and city council members are under attack by coordinated Republican efforts. 
 
Would you like to learn more? Under DPCCC’s file access policy, access to all non-confidential DPCCC files is available to any DPCCC member (including Associates) upon request by emailing the Secretary. You can pay your dues by clicking here!

SPECIAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING FOR ENDORSEMENTS

The Democratic Party of Contra Costa County will hold a special membership meeting on Thursday, September 1, at 6 p.m. via Zoom to consider endorsements for the November General Election.

If you are not a DPCCC member and wish to attend, please RSVP to the DPCCC Secretary at secretary@contracostadems.com. If you are a DPCCC member, you should receive an email with details for the meeting about seven days in advance. If you do not, please email the DPCCC Secretary at secretary@contracostadems.com.

IN THE NEWS

The Democratic Party of Contra Costa County’s efforts to support our local school board members during some of the more contentious meetings about public health measures and teaching accurate history over the past year were featured in a Cal Matters story about how California Republicans are betting big on local school board races in 2022

After hearing from some Contra Costa school board members asking for help, the DPCCC adopted two resolutions to support our School Board members. In addition to sharing the resolutions with our members and posting them on our website, DPCCC members and leadership, including Chair Katie Ricklefs, attended school board meetings to share the resolutions. 

The Republican efforts to take over school boards are happening in Contra Costa County. That’s why supporting the DPCCC’s endorsed school board candidates in the November elections will be one of our top priorities. 

TAKE ACTION

JOIN US IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY TO TALK TO VOTERS, ONE CONVERSATION AT A TIME!

There are less than three months left to reach voters and the path to the next House majority goes through California. Canvassing is the most effective way to introduce voters to Rudy Salas, help support Democrats, and get your steps in! Lodging and carpool options are available.

Knock doors every Saturday in Hanford, Kings County, through election day!
https://www.mobilize.us/cadems/event/445111

Knock doors on Fridays through Sundays, beginning on September 30 in Bakersfield, Kern County, through election day!
https://www.mobilize.us/cadems/event/494449

Don’t worry if you’ve never done this before—when you arrive at the staging location you will be trained and given all the supplies you need. And once you get going, you’ll find that talking to voters is fun and rewarding!
 
For more information on volunteering, contact Cecilia at volunteer@contracostadems.com or call 510-693-4259.

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW FOR THE DPCCC BBQ PARTY

Save the date! The DPCCC’s annual BBQ will be on September 10 from noon to 5 p.m. at the Concord Community Park (3501 Cowell Rd, Concord, CA 94518).

Early Bird Tickets are now available through August 31! We’ll enjoy music, a taco bar (our BBQ Chair will BBQ too), plenty of fun drinks, cornhole, giant Jenga, speeches, tabling from our candidates and clubs, and the opportunity to meet and speak with electeds and other activists and volunteers. Bring a friend or new member, bring your dog, wear your Democratic Party of Contra Costa County (DPCCC) shirts or hats, and come ready to have fun! 

Sponsorships are available and play a vital role in supporting the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County in recruiting and electing democrats both here and in critical or contentious races locally or across the state or country. Your sponsorship also helps support our County party infrastructure to be able to host more fun events, recognize members and support our members.

Click here to purchase a ticket or sponsorship!


RESOLUTIONS AND LEGISLATION

The DPCCC adopted the following resolutions at its August 18, 2022, meeting:
Proclamation in Support of National Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15, 2022 – October 15, 2022
 Proclamation Recognizing and Commemorating the 77th Anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, October 2022

The DPCCC voted at its August 18, 2022, meeting to take positions on the following bills currently under consideration in the United States Congress:
SUPPORT H.R. 8296 (Authored by Representative Judy Chu), the Women’s Health Protection Act of 2022, which would create a federal right for patients to receive and providers to provide abortion care, ensuring every American—regardless of where they live—can make decisions about their own lives and bodies. Click here to read the Issues Committee Application.
SUPPORT H.R. 8297 (Authored by Representative Lizzie Fletcher), the Ensuring Women’s Right to Reproductive Freedom Act, which would prohibit anyone acting under state law from interfering with a person’s ability to access out-of-state abortion services. Click here to read the Issues Committee Application.
SUPPORT H.R. 8373 (Authored by Representative Kathy Manning), the Right to Contraception Act, which would provide statutory protections for an individual’s right to access and a health care provider’s right to provide contraception and related information. Click here to read the Issues Committee Application.
SUPPORT H.R. 8404 (Authored by Representative Jerrold Nadler), the Respect for Marriage Act, which would provide statutory authority for same-sex and interracial marriages. Click here to read the Issues Committee Application.You can learn more about the Issues Committee’s process for reviewing legislation, resolutions, and proclamations by reading its submission guidelines and application for consideration

You can review an index of the Resolutions adopted by the DPCCC since 2022 and a Legislative Tracker of all the bills on which the DPCCC has taken a position during the 2021-22 session.


DEMOCRATS AROUND CONTRA COSTA COUNTY  

The primary focus of our District Directors during the past month has been organizing and managing our candidate endorsement process for the November 2022 election. Check back next month for more details on what is happening around the county!BIDEN/HARRIS ACCOMPLISHMENTSTo counteract the Republican negative campaign against the Biden/Harris administration, we’ve generated one slide that summarizes their long list of accomplishments under three major goals they have achieved.  You can use this information when you’re out canvassing, for talks with your friends and family members and—if you’re really brave—with moderate Republicans!

In any event, don’t give in to the Republican negative messages—defend the Biden/Harris administration’s accomplishments! Click here to see the slide:
https://contracostadems.com/biden-harris-accomplishments/.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Farm workers are marching to win the right to vote for a union free from intimidation and threats. This march is to convince Gov. Gavin Newsom to sign AB 2183, the Agricultural Labor Relations Voting Choice Act (AB 2183-Stone). The bill would give more choices to farm workers so they can vote free from intimidation. Farm workers would be able to vote in secret whenever and wherever they feel safe. 

You are invited to join the Farm Workers as they complete the final mile of their march in Sacramento on Friday, August 26 at 9 a.m. Click here for more details!

The Alameda County Democratic Party is hosting its 50th Anniversary Democratic Unity Dinner at the Oakland Airport Hilton on Saturday, September 24, at 6 p.m. Early bird tickets for $110 are available until Friday, September 2. Click here for more information and to purchase tickets. 
 
If you have an announcement you would like us to consider including in next month’s newsletter, please email commsdir@contracostadems.com

DPCCC EVENT CALENDAR

This calendar is for DPCCC and other Democratic Party events to which all DPCCC members are invited. To request the addition of an item to the calendar, please email secretary@contracostadems.com. Please click on the image to get more details!LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINKDo you have any questions or feedback about this DPCCC Newsletter? We would love to hear from you! Please send your comments to commsdir@contracostadems.com
Copyright © 2022 secretary@contracostadems.com, All rights reserved. 

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Martinez, CA 94553
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