By Regina Wilson | California Black Media
SAN BERNARDINO — At the start of Women’s History Month, community leaders, students and residents gathered in the Inland Empire to celebrate the legacy and leadership of Black women in public service through a screening of the documentary Respect My Crown: The Rise of African American Women in California Politics.
The event, held Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the San Bernardino Valley College Auditorium, brought together elected officials and community advocates to reflect on the growing impact of African American women in political leadership. The program was co-presented by the Alexander Family Foundation, Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation and Black Elected Officials (BEO) of California.
The documentary chronicles the rise and influence of Black women in California politics, highlighting the challenges they have navigated and the leadership roles they continue to play in shaping public policy and community outcomes across the state.
Several Inland Empire leaders featured in the film were recognized during the evening, including former Assemblymember Cheryl Brown, former Rialto Mayor Deborah Robertson and Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren — trailblazers whose public service careers have helped shape the region’s civic and political landscape.
The program opened with remarks from the film’s director and producer Pam Moon, followed by an acknowledgement of dignitaries by former councilmember and BEO board director Damon Alexander before the screening.
Organizers said bringing the documentary to the Inland Empire was an opportunity to connect California’s broader political history with local leadership.
“The Alexander Family Foundation was honored to initiate the idea of bringing the Respect My Crown film to the Inland Empire, celebrating the legacy of African American women whose leadership continues to shape policy and transform the landscape for African Americans and all communities,” Damon and Felicia Alexander said in a joint statement.
“Featuring local trailblazers such as Mayor Acquanetta Warren, Former Mayor Deborah Robertson and Former Assemblymember Cheryl Brown, the film offers powerful intergenerational inspiration for both seasoned leaders and emerging young women,” they continued. “We are grateful to have collaborated with Black Elected Officials and Young Women Empowerment to expand our outreach on multiple levels within the Inland Empire.”
Following the screening, a panel discussion explored the experiences of African American women serving in public leadership roles across the region.
The panel was moderated by Marla A. Matime, executive director of Black Elected Officials of California. Panelists included Felicia Alexander, trustee for the San Bernardino City Unified School District; Dr. Gwen Dowdy-Rodgers of the San Bernardino County Board of Education; Jamie Azpeitia-Sachs of the Riverside County Board of Education; and Adelanto Councilwoman Stevevonna Evans.
The discussion focused on leadership, representation and the responsibility leaders carry while serving their communities.
“To witness history and take part in history in the making is truly an incredible experience,” Matime said. “The women featured in the film are all inspiring and empowering.”
Matime said honoring both past and current leaders is central to the mission of Black Elected Officials of California as the organization continues its statewide expansion.
“The BEO of California, formerly BEO of the East Bay, is proud to honor the many women on California’s political stage throughout the decades,” Matime said. “Seeing women who have gone before us and those who are still on the frontlines charges us all to do our part in the political process.”
She added that the organization will continue supporting elected, appointed and executive leaders throughout the state as the network grows.
Following the panel discussion, audience members participated in a question-and-answer session before the evening concluded.
Organizers said the event was designed not only to recognize the accomplishments of women who have helped shape California politics, but also to inspire the next generation of leaders to pursue public service and civic leadership.