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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 California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.

Special to WssNews By Jim Bolas, Chief Program Officer, Family Assistance Program

San Bernardino County, CA — The Family Assistance Program proudly announced its expanded commitment to addressing hate crimes and bullying through its *Stop the Hate* campaign and the development of a county-wide Human Rights Coalition. These initiatives aim to create safer and more inclusive communities by preventing and addressing acts of hate while empowering individuals through education, advocacy, and direct services.

As part of the *Stop the Hate* campaign, Family Assistance Program focuses on combating anti- BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and LGBTQIA+ violence, bullying, and hate crimes against all protected classes among youth and young adults. This campaign combines direct services, prevention strategies, and intervention to ensure that everyone—regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or other characteristics—feels safe and supported in their communities.

Recent incidents, including the tragic murder of businesswoman Laura Ann Carleton in Cedar Glen and the racist language at a previous San Bernardino City Council Meeting, are stimulating the agency’s sense of urgency regarding these efforts. The campaign’s initiatives include peer-based therapeutic support, professional counseling, anti-bullying workshops in schools, and the creation of a rapid response network to support hate crime survivors.

Key Campaign Features:  

• Direct Services: Tailored care plans, therapy, system navigation and wellness activities for LGBTQIA+ and marginalized youth and young adult community members. 
• Prevention: Peer mentoring programs, partnerships with and safety planning and “upstander” workshops at Gay-Straight Alliances and school programs, and a youth-driven awareness campaign. 
• Intervention: Training for schools, housing programs, and community organizations, alongside policy reviews to enhance equity and inclusion.  

In tandem with these efforts, the Family Assistance Program is forming a Human Rights Coalition, which will serve as a central body uniting agencies, organizations, and advocates to protect and empower individuals experiencing discrimination or bias-based violence. Through collaboration, the coalition aims to increase hate crime reporting, provide comprehensive support to survivors, and educate the public on human rights and available resources.

Opportunities to Get Involved With Family Assistance:  

• Access Services: If you or someone you know has been impacted by hate crimes or bullying, reach out for support. Visit [Family Assistance Program’s Stop the Hate webpage](https://familyassist.org/stop-the-hate-anti-violence-project/ ) for more information.  
• Volunteer: Help expand the impact by volunteering your time or expertise. Opportunities are available to support the various programs, assist with events, and participate in coalition efforts. 
• Join the Human Rights Coalition: Lend your voice and expertise to shape the coalition’s agenda, including policy advocacy, community outreach, and education initiatives.  

To learn more or to get involved, please contact Jim Bolas at 917-689-9659 or jim@familyassist.org “

Family Assistance Program empowers all individuals and families, regardless of age or gender, by providing knowledge and skills to live a healthy, safe, fulfilled life.

The Outstanding Achievement Awards Recognize District Students, Parents and Staff

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—On Tuesday, Oct. 22, the Board of Education presented the Outstanding Achievement Awards to students, parents and staff of Fairfax Elementary School, Riley College Prep Academy Elementary School, Curtis Middle School and Virtual Academy.

The Board recognizes Outstanding Student Award winners to honor excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts, citizenship and most improvement. The Board also presents the Outstanding Parent/Grandparent/Volunteer Award and Outstanding Employee Award to individuals who embody the District’s dedication to student achievement and well-being.

Fairfax Elementary School, Principal Dr. Gregory Alexander:

Alexa Fuentes Vasquez is a second grader and Outstanding Student. Principal Alexander shared that Fuentes Vasquez demonstrates safe, respectful and responsible behavior. She consistently scores at the top of the class.

Markus Garcia is a fifth grader and was also recognized as an Outstanding Student. Garcia is a cooperative and well-mannered 5th-grader who completes his work accurately and on time. His passion for learning, his willingness to be a team player, and his determination to succeed in life is beyond compare.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Natalie Rincon has made a difference for all students at Fairfax Elementary by volunteering nearly the entire 2023–24 school year as a recreation aide. She attends field trips and serves on the English Learner Advisory Council (ELAC). During lunch and recess, Rincon also found special time to connect with students who spoke limited English to make them feel comfortable and important.

Secretary II Desiree Huerta is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Huerta is the heart and soul of Fairfax. She is organized and keeps staff informed. She demonstrates professionalism by giving her best everyday and exemplifies resilience by facing and resolving problems and overcoming adversities on a regular basis.

National Board Certified Teacher Jason Scott is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. As a Multi-tiered System of Support Teacher on Special Assignment, Scott has established a solid tier 2 intervention by organizing and implementing the school’s learning lab. He exemplifies the belief in human potential because he truly believes that every individual can learn and exceed expectations.

Riley College Prep Academy Elementary School, Principal Jaime Arias:

Leo Garcia is a fifth-grader and Outstanding Student. Garcia shines as an exceptional student who perseveres through challenges and always tries his hardest. He is the first to lend a helping hand to a friend and consistently demonstrates classroom expectations. His bright light shines whenever you see him, and he is a natural leader who models great behavior and sets a positive example for his peers.

Evelyn Palacios Garcia is a fourth-grader and Outstanding Student. Palacios Garcia exceeded expectations in both language arts and math on the CAASPP last year as a third-grader. Her laughter and smiles brighten each day, reflecting her happiness to be at school and learning. She upholds all PBIS expectations and has earned a role on Riley’s Honor Patrol.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Elizabeth Delgado is a shining example of parent empowerment and engagement. Her dedication to Riley is evident through her active involvement in the School Site Council, English Learner Advisory Council and other District committees, as well as her volunteer hours. She is a proud San Bernardino High graduate and a true product of San Bernardino.

Bilingual Health Aide Alejandra Sanchez is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Sanchez models professionalism, pride and kindness daily. She shines when caring for students’ health, helping families support their child’s health and working collaboratively with her office team on daily operations.

Program Facilitator Scott Neuscheler is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Neuscheler exemplifies the District’s Operational Values by championing the strengths of every Riley student and teacher and helping them reach their fullest potential. He advocates for all students to receive the support they need, creating a safe and welcoming school environment that is fun and joyful.

Curtis Middle School, Principal Guillermo Guerrero:

Eighth-grader Jasaun Alonzo Lee Carswell is an Outstanding Student. Carswell is a member of the Lion Team and has been a driving force behind the motto “The Curtis Way.” He played a pivotal role in Curtis Middle School’s achievement of the STEM Pathway Linked Learning Gold Certification, showcasing his dedication to academic excellence.

Oswaldo Moreno Cortes is a seventh-grader and Outstanding Student. Moreno Cortes exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated scholar and to live The Curtis Way. Beginning his SBCUSD journey as a kindergarten English learner, Moreno Cortes has demonstrated remarkable progress. With a 4.0 GPA, perfect attendance and a strong work ethic, he is a shining example of academic excellence and perseverance.

Marina Perez is an Outstanding Parent Award winner. Perez has earned recognition for her active involvement and dedication to her school community. As a key member of Curtis’s English Learner Advisory Council and the District-level committee, she plays a vital role in supporting efforts to improve educational outcomes for English learners.

Bilingual Attendance Technician Gabriela Caracoza is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Caracoza truly exemplifies the District’s Vision 2030: SBCUSD SHINES in all that she does. A pillar of positivity in the school office, she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the success of staff and scholars. Her stellar customer service and dedication to supporting the school community make her an essential part of the Curtis family.

Scott Velasquez is an Outstanding Certificated Employee and English Language Arts Teacher. Velasquez is an exemplary leader who embodies Vision 2030: SBCUSD SHINES every day. As a dedicated team lead, department chair and sports coach, he consistently demonstrates a commitment to excellence. His leadership and dedication to Curtis scholars, along with his embodiment of the Curtis Way, contribute to a thriving and positive school culture.

Virtual Academy, Principal Karma Duffy:

Jaylin Soto is a senior and an Outstanding Student. Soto has worked hard during her time at Virtual Academy. She has strived to do her academic best. She not only excels in her high school coursework but also her college coursework. She currently has completed two semesters of college coursework as part of the Dual Enrollment program.

High school junior Malia Woods is an Outstanding Student. Woods has been a great student who is always willing to go above and beyond what’s expected of her. Her teacher has witnessed her growth as a virtual student and her strong leadership skills. She submits quality work, participates in Dual Enrollment, attending both high school and college classes, and attends most Virtual Academy in-person events.

Kesha McGee is an Outstanding Parent. McGee is always willing to support and be involved in her child’s education and wider school matters. She has been a driving force in the establishment of Virtual Academy’s African-American Parent Advisory Council and the PTO. School staff appreciate that she is looking out not only for her own child but for all the students of Virtual Academy.

Senior Clerk Sonja Brock is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Brock exemplifies professionalism as she works closely with parents and staff to ensure that everyone feels valued and respected. She is the school’s enrollment specialist and works to ensure families understand the Independent Study process through both Virtual Academy and the Alternative Learning Center.

High School English Language Arts Teacher Lorie Myers is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. She exemplifies the importance of human potential. Her warm demeanor provides a feeling of support with high expectations for all of her scholars. She has always been a team player and truly takes an interest in every scholar she works with.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—The Educational Results Partnership (ERP) named six San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) campuses to its 2024 Honor Roll for being high-performing schools that improve student academic outcomes.

The award-winning schools are Hillside University Demonstration School, Kimbark Elementary School, Paakuma’ K–8 School, Richardson PREP HI Middle School, Rodriguez PREP Academy Middle School and Middle College High School.

“This honor reflects the dedication of our students, staff and families who work together tirelessly to ensure our students achieve excellence every day,” said Superintendent Mauricio Arellano. “We are committed to fostering a learning environment where everyone can learn, and this recognition affirms that we truly are on the right path.”

SBCUSD is focused on creating opportunities where every student can reach their full potential. This honor reflects the District’s multiyear vision to maintain high standards and collaboration so that all learners can succeed.

Except for Paakuma’ K–8 School, five of the schools had previously been honored by ERP.

Kimbark was previously honored in 2015, 2016 and 2023 and Hillside was recognized nine times from 2012–2024. Richardson has been named to the Honor Roll 12 times from 2008–2024. Rodriguez has made the ERP Honor Roll seven times from 2012–2024, and Middle College is a six-time honoree from 2010–2024.

All of this year’s honorees earned the Star Award, which recognizes Honor Roll schools that are high performing and closing the achievement gap despite being high-need schools.

ERP did not publish the honor roll from 2020–2022.

ERP is a non-profit organization that uses public school achievement data to help improve student outcomes and career readiness. ERP Honor Roll schools have demonstrated consistently high levels of student academic achievement, improvement in achievement levels over time and a reduction in achievement gaps among student populations.

In California, the ERP Honor Roll is supported by multiple organizations, including the California Black Chamber of Commerce, the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, CALASIAN Chamber of Commerce and the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce.

To access the ERP Honor Roll, visit https://www.edresults.org/honor-roll.

By Angela M. Coggs

San Bernardino native and rising NFL star Jayden Daniels returned to his roots on Saturday, December 7, 2024, to host his inaugural toy drive at Cajon High School, his alma mater. The event, held during the Washington Commanders’ bye week, drew over 400 local children and their families, filling the gymnasium with holiday cheer and the spirit of giving.

The toy drive was not only a reflection of Daniels’ generosity but also a celebration of his deep ties to the San Bernardino community. Earlier this year, in January 2024, the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) honored Daniels by naming Cajon High School’s football stadium after him, recognizing his achievements both on and off the field. “This young man continues to be a blessing in so many ways.  His sense of humility and appreciation models what we hope for every young man and young woman to aspire to become,” said SBCUSD School Board Member Scott Wyatt.  “Thank you, Jayden Daniels, for being the amazing young man you are. We LOVE you! We are PROUD of you! And may God continue to Bless you and protect for many years to come.”

Daniels, the rookie quarterback for the Commanders, greeted attendees with his trademark smile and contagious energy. Children lined up to meet their hometown hero, who took time to sign autographs, pose for photos, and personally hand out toys. For Daniels, the event was more than just a moment of giving—it was an opportunity to inspire.

“This is only the beginning,” Daniels said. “I want to make this an annual event, and I hope next year will be even bigger. It means the world to me to come back home and bring some joy to the kids in this community. This is where it all started for me.”

The event was a resounding success, with children and their families’ enjoying games, music, and an abundance of toys, all provided through donations and Daniels’ own contributions. His passion for giving back was evident as he moved through the crowd, sharing laughter and uplifting stories from his journey. “This is one of the best experiences EVER,” exclaimed Rio M., a local student who attended the event. Many were impressed with how he was able recite Daniels stats easily off the top of his head. He walked away with a huge Nerf gun, exactly what he wanted. He was in awe of Daniels and excited to be in his presence.

Cajon High School Principal Melissa Kane praised Daniels’ commitment to his hometown. “Jayden has always been a leader, both on the field and off. His dedication to giving back to San Bernardino shows the kind of person he is. We’re so proud to have his name on our stadium and to call him one of our own.”

This is not an isolated gift to his hometown. On Wednesday evening, Nov. 13, 2024, after their regular practice at Jayden Daniels Stadium, Cajon High School football players received a surprise gift from a surprise visitor.
The stadium’s namesake, former Cajon High quarterback, Heisman Trophy winner, and now Washington Commanders quarterback, Jayden Daniels, appeared to the players on the field displayed on a large video screen.
While on screen, Daniels revealed he was gifting each of the athletes a pair of Beats by Dre headphones.
Cajon’s head football coach Nick Rodgers connected with Daniels via facetime, while Daniels’ father, Jay Daniels, attended the practice in person to pass out the 65 pairs of headphones.
On the video call Daniels congratulated the team for making it to the playoffs.
“Congrats to you on your season so far. I’m always watching and I’m always supporting,” Daniels said. “I love Cajon. I love San Bernardino and I love what y’all are doing. Hopefully this year y’all can go get a ring. I got you a little gift for something to lock into the playoffs.”
The players exploded in excitement and enthusiastically thanked him.
Daniels later posted a video of the event to his Instagram account, thanking Beats headphones and Crowd Control Entertainment from Palm Springs who set up the audio equipment for the event.
On the video call Daniels congratulated the team for making it to the playoffs.

According to a video later posted by Daniels to his Instagram account, Beats by Dre Headphones and Crowd Control Entertainment, based in Palm Springs, collaborated, set up and provided the audio equipment for the event.”

Daniels’ impact on the San Bernardino community continues to grow as he establishes himself in the NFL. His toy drive exemplifies his desire to use his platform to uplift others, making him a role model not just for aspiring athletes but for anyone striving to make a difference.

With plans already underway for next year’s event, Daniels hopes to inspire even more people to join him in spreading joy during the holiday season. For San Bernardino, it’s clear that the hometown hero’s star is not only shining on the field but also illuminating the hearts of his community.

As the gymnasium at Cajon High School echoed with laughter and gratitude, one thing was certain: Jayden Daniels’ toy drive was more than just a charitable event—it was a celebration of hope, unity, and the power of giving back.

By Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., California Secretary of State  

Californians can confidently claim this: California has made more significant reforms to our election laws and expanded voting rights than any other state.

The relevance of this accomplishment deepens as we prepare to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act next year. This landmark legislation began to undo our country’s long history of voter suppression, intimidation, and disenfranchisement that far too many Americans experienced at the polls for decades.

My own parents, who were sharecroppers, were denied their right to vote in the Jim Crow era South. Before moving to Los Angeles from Hope, Arkansas, my parents, David and Mildred Nash, could not vote. My father was an adult with six children before he registered to vote and was only able to exercise that constitutional right for the first time here in California.

As California Secretary of State, I do not take the progress we have made over the years lightly. My staff and I hold sacred the obligation to ensure that our elections are safe, free, fair, and accessible to all. Therefore, before certifying the results for this year’s election on Dec. 13, we have taken a number of steps to ensure that every vote is counted. We have also made sure that our ballot counting process is credible and free from interference.

To meet that deadline without a hitch, California requires elections officials in all 58 counties to turn in their official results by a certain date. This year, that date was December 6.

By law, every eligible voter in our state receives a vote-by-mail ballot. This ensures all registered voters can exercise their right to vote.

Whether you placed your ballot in a designated drop-off box, voted by mail, or cast your ballot at a polling center, votes are safe and secure. And we allow voters to sign up to receive text message, email, or voice call notifications about the status of their own ballots by using the Where’s My Ballot? tool. To learn more or to sign up, paste this URL in your web browser: https://california.ballottrax.net/voter/

The ballots of Californians who voted by mail are also protected. The United States Postal Service partners with the State to make sure ballots are delivered on time. All mailed-in ballots are sent by First Class mail with a postage paid envelope provided to every eligible registered voter.

Election Security is our number one priority. That’s why my office designed and implemented a program to back up that commitment.  For more information, visit this URL: https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/election-cybersecurity

Additionally, California takes preventive actions to make sure our voting technology keeps our elections safe and protects everyone’s votes.

For example, county voting systems are not connected to the internet, which protects them from cyberthreats. The State also performs regular and rigorous testing to make sure the voting systems are working optimally, and only authorized personnel are granted access.

Staff members are also given phishing and cybersecurity training.

VoteCal, the state’s centralized voter registration system, is also key. The system is regularly updated, and it is used as a resource for counties to verify voter signatures.

California also provides security at all counting locations and makes sure ballot drop-off boxes are secured and monitored.

And all election processes are open to observation during specified hours.

In my role as Secretary of State of California, there is nothing more important to me than defending our democracy. I am committed to safeguarding voting rights, and to leading our state in upholding the highest democratic standards by implementing policies and practices that Californians and all Americans can trust and look to for instruction and hope.

You can contact the California Office of the Secretary of State at 1-800-345-Vote or elections@sos.ca.gov with inquiries or to report suspected incidents or irregularities. Additional information can be found at www.sos.ca.gov and the office’s social media platforms:

Instagram: @californiasos_

Facebook: Facebook.com/CaliforniaSOS

X: @CASOSVote

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/

The California Attorney General’s Office, in 1968, issued a report titled; Palm Springs Section 14 Demolition. The final paragraph of that document is reprinted here…

“The City of Palm Springs not only disregarded the residents of Section 14 as property-owners, taxpayers, and voters. Palm Springs ignored that the residents of Section 14 were human beings.”

The Civil Rights Act was in effect… And yet, the ‘City engineered holocaust’, as described by the AG’s Report, was classified as not illegal, and allowed to continue terrorizing the surviving Section 14 victims and descendants… Section 14’s homes and personal belongings, were not the only things devastated by the fire! People were devastated… But people were not only devastated by the fire, they were, in many cases, most devastated by the blatant hateful racism that it takes to treat people as non-human!
The painful effects of institutional racism go deeper and last longer than that human to human kind of misunderstanding… Institutional racism is terrorizing because it is considered legal! However, sometimes mistakes are made and a crack is created in the institutional racism shield…
The City of Palm Springs recently offered 4 plus million dollars to the ‘Survivors of Section 14’, an organization representing the 300 plus families and their 1200 plus members, an offer which was refused! I think that the offer was/is an insult, and that the city having enough distain for the survivors to make such a stand is another example of the ongoing hate crime being perpetrated on the surviving victims of the “City engineered holocaust”, the demolition of Palm Springs Section 14!
The coordinated actions designed to take property legally through eminent domain is painful enough. But even worse was the City choosing to hatefully, just snatch the land from underneath its owners ignoring their humanity!
I will be reporting this hate crime via the Stop The Hate recommended method and I will report more regarding the victims as I get back to you next week!
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 California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, 833-8-NO-HATE 833-866-4283
Listen to Empire Talks Back radio Host, Wallace Allen interview Attorney Areva Martin and Pearl Devers, founder of the ‘Palm Springs Survivors of Section 14’,
The Palm Springs Section 14 Survivors are victims of what the 1968 report from the California Attorney General’s Office describes as “A city engineered holocaust”, as an estimated 200 African American homes were burned, bulldozed… Demolished in the city of Palm Springs by the Palm Springs Fire Department. As community organizations and government entities across the state participate in “Unite Against The Hate” activities, beginning September 21st, we think that it is important to point out that as we voice our distain for hate, our government institutions are in some places still defending it!
As partners in the CA vs Hate Program, what are the Attorney General, the Civil Rights Division, and the Department of Social Services doing about the plight of the Palm Springs Section 14 Survivors of the “City engineered Holocaust”?

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

When Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood) was sworn into the California Legislature in 2009 as an Assemblymember, he brought with him a long and faceted record of accomplishments in both the private and public sectors.

From his experiences as a Fortune 500 corporate executive at IBM and Southern California Edison to earning his chops as the first Black Gardena City Councilmember, Bradford excelled in various roles before being elected State Senator in 2016.

In the State Senate, Bradford secured millions of dollars to support projects, programs, and institutions in his district, including Compton Community College and Watts Rising, a collaborative that advocates for affordable housing. Bradford, who is termed out next year, is also a champion of workforce development and environmental initiatives.

Earlier this year, he announced that he is running for Lieutenant Governor.

Bradford, who served as Vice Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) until this month, says he continues to pursue and enact policies geared toward equity and fairness.

California Black Media (CBM) spoke with Bradford recently. He reflected on his current goals, his many accomplishments, disappointments, and lessons learned over the course of the last year.

Responses have been edited for clarity and length.

Looking back at 2024, what stands out to you as your most important achievement and why? 

The fact that we got substantive legislation on reparations through both houses with very little opposition, despite the fact that one of those bills was vetoed and two, were not brought up on the floor for a vote.

I still think that’s a major success. We were also able to secure $12 million in the budget, especially during a deficit year, to fund reparations initiatives. So, those things in and of themselves, were highlights – even if we did not get all the final

How did your leadership contribute to improving the lives of Black Californians? 

I think my career overall has been about moving the agenda for not only African Americans, but those who’ve been most disenfranchised, not only by the State, but also by this country. I think my record speaks for itself when you look at the Ebony Alert law, the Bruce’s Beach settlement, or NIL legislation, that not only directly impacted people of color, specifically African Americans, but also helped all people with the challenges they face here. Also, a first-time low-income funding for internet and public housing – $30 million for that.

We secured $40 million for Allensworth, the historic Black-majority city, now state park, that was founded by Colonel Allensworth. The funding helped to restore that park two years ago. My record overall has been one of service and responding where is the most need.

What frustrated you the most over the last year?

The veto of my bill, SB 1050, and the fact that 1403 and 1331, two other reparations bills, didn’t even have a vote on the Assembly Floor, despite the fact that those bills made it through both houses with little or no opposition.

The fact that 1403 and 1331 didn’t see the light of day the last week of session, that was really disappointing. Especially when the entire Black Caucus supported 1403. And again, the bill had not been amended from the time it was introduced to the time it got all the way to the Assembly. So, I’m really sorry that, until the last couple of days, they chose not to bring this bill up.

What inspired you the most over the last year?

The fact that we’re resilient. You have to keep hope.

I don’t let one setback define the movement. We’re going to continue to fight, whether I’m in the legislature or not. And whether it’s a Black Caucus party or not, I think our colleagues are going to continue to do what’s right for all Californians — but also have a lane for those folks who have been most disenfranchised here in the state and across this country.

What is one lesson you learned in 2024 that will inform your decision-making next year?

Always be prepared for the double cross. I was told that almost 30 years ago by my mentor, the late Mervyn Dymally, former State Senator, former Assemblyman, Lieutenant Governor, Congressman. He says always expect the double cross because it will happen. We saw it this year. But again, you got to stay positive and soldier through. So that’s what we’re going to continue to do.

In one word, what is the biggest challenge Black Californians face?

Unity. We are, in many ways, moving forward but in a very fragmented way.

As the African proverb states, “If you want to go fast, you go by yourself. But if you want to go far, go together.”

However, we don’t have the unity that we should have.

What is the goal you want to achieve most in 2025?

To keep being a voice for positive change. Being supportive of impactful legislation that’s going to help all Californians, but especially those folks who have been most disenfranchised in this state.

By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

The California Commission on Aging (CCoA) has published a Housing Policy Brief  that offers recommendations for reducing housing insecurity and homelessness among older adults in California.

The brief summarizes a more in-depth report titled “Housing Those Hardest Hit: Addressing Older Adult Homelessness.” It also includes seven actionable recommendations to mitigate older adult homelessness in three settings: permanent housing, independent housing, and assisted living.“Expanding housing capacity across all settings in the older adult continuum of care is critical as our state confronts the pressing issues of housing insecurity and homelessness among older adults,” stated CCoA Executive Director Karol Swartzlander.

“The need is urgent, and the time to act is now,” she emphasized.

The CCoA serves as the principal advocating body for older Californians, and it administers programs that support and celebrate Californians as they age. In addition, the CCoA advises the Governor and Legislature, along with state, federal, and local agencies on programs and services that affect older adults in the state.From 2017 to 2022, the number of adults aged 55-64 who accessed homelessness services across California increased by over 90%, while the number of adults over 65 in the state, overall, increased by over 166% – exceeding any other age group, according to the report.

According to CCoa, the commission blends housing solutions within a comprehensive continuum of care, presenting policymakers with targeted strategies that accommodate the diverse housing and supportive service needs of older adults.

Efforts to address homelessness is now one of CCoA’s top priorities, says Swartzlander.  “The need is urgent, and the time to act is now,” she added.

In 1990, 11% of the homeless population was over the age of 50 while in 2023 older adults represented nearly half of the state’s homeless population.  Among this population, 41% first experienced homelessness after the age of 50.

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s annual Point-in-Time Count, 38,028 adults aged 55 and older experienced homelessness in California in 2023. Furthermore, the report stated that 41% first experienced homelessness after the age of 50.

Former Assemblymember Cheryl Brown (D-San Bernardino), who just completed a six-year term as chairperson of the CCoA, said there must be policies in place to “remedy the problem” of older adults becoming homeless in the state.

The lack of accessible and available housing, health-related behaviors, medical problems, social isolation, and limited resources are some of the root causes of homelessness and poverty among aging Californians. Speaking on own her behalf — not representing CCoA — Brown said more alternatives for affordable housing and services would provide a much-needed safety net for older adults in the state.

“We need to go back to square one and come up with some policies that would help older adults have options,” Brown said. “It’s a tragedy that these people have paid into the system (taxes, social security), and did it the right way, and they still need these services.”

In the policy brief, the CCoA presents seven recommendations to mitigate aging adult homelessness. They are exploring a statewide subsidy for older adults at-risk of homelessness; developing a state homeshare program; expanding ministerial approval for smaller assisted living facilities; reforming housing laws; expanding assisted living waivers; and funding community care suggestions.

For the last five years, homelessness among African Americans nationally and in California has seen a continued uptick. Black Californians are disproportionately likely to experience homelessness, according to the California Budget and Policy Center (Budget Center).

Black Californians roughly consist of 5% of the state’s population. However, they comprised over 1 in 4 unhoused people who made contact with a homelessness service provider during the 2021-22 fiscal year, according to the Budget Center’s “Who Is Experiencing Homelessness In California?” report.

“Long-standing racist policies and practices have also

concentrated marginalized communities in undervalued occupations, increasing their economic insecurity which is a primary driver of experiencing homelessness,” the March 2023 Budget Center report stated.  “We see this today as people of color are largely pushed into lower-paying occupations, the first to lose their jobs during economic downturns, and experience the highest rates of unemployment.”

According to the 2020 Profile of African Americans Age 65 or Older, the African American population age 65 and older was 4,979,133 in 2019 and is projected to grow to 12.1 million by 2060.

Overall, numerous factors contribute to the increase in older adult homelessness. Scattered employment, low-wage employment, and time serving as a family caregiver, result in low wages throughout significant working years.

“As state and federal policymakers consider choices that will affect California’s unhoused and vulnerable communities, it is important to understand the unique housing, economic, and health conditions older unhoused adults face,” the Budget Center reported. “By doing so, policymakers can act on proven policies and interventions that can help solve homelessness among older adults.”

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernardino Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade Committee is proud to announce that Mr. Rich Wallace, Founder of the Southern Black Chamber of Commerce, has been selected as the Grand Marshal for the 5th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade & Extravaganza. The event, themed “Echoes of Freedom: As We Continue Marching Forward,” will take place on Monday, January 20, 2025, beginning at 12:00 p.m. in Downtown San Bernardino at 624 W. 4th Street.

This year’s celebration marks a significant milestone as the community gathers to honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a vibrant and engaging afternoon of activities designed to inspire, educate, and entertain.

Event Highlights Include:

• Live Entertainment and Performances
• Vendor Extravaganza Featuring Local Talent
• Art Walk and Food Vendors
• Classic Car Show
• Celebrity Guests and Local Drill Teams
• Informative and Educational Activities for All Ages

“We are thrilled to celebrate our fifth-year honoring Dr. King’s legacy,” said LuCretia Dowdy. “This event is a reflection of the community’s spirit, resilience, and commitment to the principles of unity and progress that Dr. King stood for.”

The committee also invites students, families, and community members to actively participate in the parade and festivities. This event is not only a celebration but also an opportunity to reflect on the work that still lies ahead as we continue to advance Dr. King’s dream.

For more information about the parade, vendor opportunities, or how to get involved, please contact Lue Dowdy at 909.567.1000 or 909.495.0848.

About the San Bernardino Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade Committee:

The San Bernardino Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade Committee is dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of Dr. King by organizing events that promote unity, diversity, and community engagement.

“IE Choice Awards Get Familiar with Some of the Biggest Acts to Roll Through”

RIALTO, CA— The 2024 IE Choice Awards is set to take place on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 2 p.m., with the red carpet ready to welcome some of the most influential figures across various fields. This significant event aims to celebrate excellence and recognize individuals and organizations that have made substantial contributions in their respective areas. Attendees can look forward to an afternoon filled with entertainment, accolades, inspiring speeches, and the opportunity to connect with industry leaders. As the date draws closer, excitement is building around the nominees and the impact of their work, making this a noteworthy event to watch.

The IE Choice Awards promises to be more than just a night of awards and speeches. It will feature a star-studded lineup of nominees, performers, and the legendary clothing designer for celebrities, Alex Angelino. Notable attendees include actress and singer Brely Evans, Latrice Kristine, rapper DoggyStyleeee, Lil G 909, Tycoon62, and Mac9Most, award-winning DJ Lady P and MMA World Champion Eugene V.I.P. Weems. This annual ceremony not only celebrates hip-hop music but also honors some of the most significant philanthropists and individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional innovation, leadership, and a commitment to excellence.

Several prominent artists from the industry will take the stage for unforgettable performances, adding to the evening’s excitement. The ceremony will be taped in San Bernardino, California, and will be broadcast on http://talon36.com/.

The IE Choice Awards is set to be an inspiring and memorable event. The awards will be hosted by yours truly Moori Richardson. Tickets are available @ eventbrite.com. There will be a V.I.P. after party for the IE CHOICE AWARDS starting at 7pm that will be @ RAQUEL’S JAZZ LOUNGE 134 S Riverside Ave, Rialto, CA 92376.