SAN BERNARDINO, CA – Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar announced $531,000 in grant funding for two nonprofit housing assistance programs in San Bernardino to address the affordable housing crisis.

The funding comes as part of the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development’s NeighborWorks America’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Grants. Neighborhood Partnership Housing Services (NPHS) will receive $327,000 in grant funding, and Neighborhood Housing Service of the Inland Empire (NHSIE) will receive $204,000 in grant funding.

“This funding is a step forward in further addressing the affordable housing crisis that continues to put the American Dream of homeownership out of reach for so many families in San Bernardino,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “I appreciate the efforts of organizations like NPHS and NHSIE, which work at the forefront of ensuring that families have access to safe, affordable homes. Together, we’re building more housing, stronger communities and brighter futures for our residents.”

“The funding from NeighborWorks America empowers NPHS to uplift underserved communities across the Inland Valley,” said Clemente Mojica, NPHS CEO. “This support will enable NPHS to create affordable and stable housing for low-to-moderate income families, fostering opportunities where all families can achieve housing and economic security.”

“This federal allocation is a game-changer for our community,” said Kailin Scott Peoples, CEO/Executive Director of NHSIE. “It will allow us to significantly expand our efforts to continue services while pursuing new innovative approaches to provide safe, stable housing for those who need it most. We’re deeply grateful for this investment, which recognizes that affordable housing is fundamental to the health and prosperity of our entire society. With these funds, we can build more than just homes – we’re building hope, opportunity, and a stronger future for countless families.”

The NeighborWorks America funding supports the following programs for low-to-moderate-income families and small businesses: affordable housing developments, down payment assistance programs, neighborhood revitalization projects, community wealth-building initiatives, environmental sustainability programs and services for small businesses.

By Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

On Sept. 29, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill authored by Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa) that ensures babies in neonatal intensive care units receive donor breast milk vital for their health.

Under new guidelines set by Assembly Bill (AB) 3059, medical facilities will provide families donor milk for their babies regardless of restrictions their medical insurance might have.

Weber said that the bill represents the final step in expanding access to donor milk for all families, making a difference in health outcomes for newborns and their families.  AB 3059 defines donor milk as “essential” under commercial insurance coverage – a designation that Medi-Cal requires as well for payment.

“Addressing disparities in health care starts with ensuring access to essential nutrition,” said Weber. “With the mortality rate for Black infants being three times higher than that of white infants, it’s crucial we address health care inequities beginning at birth.”

Dr. Michael V. Drake, president of the University of California, thanked Weber and Newsom for their leadership.

“Creating greater access to donor milk is vital for the health and well-being of newborns and their families,” said Drake.

Drake said that the University of California looks forward to supporting vulnerable families and their babies.

According to UC data, breast milk reduces some health risks in infants such as necrotizing enterocolitis, a life-threatening bowel disease that occurs 60% more frequently among Black and Latino children.

AB 3059 lifts a restriction that required hospitals to have a license to give donor milk to patients. The new law only requires that the milk be obtained from accredited sources such as the University of California Health Milk Bank.

By Lou K. Coleman | WSS News Contributor

Jesus said to them, don’t you understand this parable? The deception of distractions? [Mark 4:1–8; Mark 4: 13-17; Mark 4:21–25; Mark 4:26–32]. All that you are seeing and are hearings are distractions from the real reality. Look carefully how you walk, not as unwise but as wise [Ephesians 5:15-16].

Remember what the Weeping  Prophet Jeremiah said in the Old Testament [Jeremiah 9:6]… “You live in the midst of deception.” So  be like, Nehemiah and see through their ploy [Nehemiah 6:3]. Let no one deceive you [Matthew 24:4] because distraction from reality will lead you to Hell.

Understand how the devil wages war. First, he will turn your attention from God through distractions, and second, he will make you doubt through deception. Know that distractions and subtleties are one of the major tools that Satan uses to get as many souls that he can. Satan is a master deceiver. He deceived one third of the angels to follow him. He deceived Eve. He deceived Judas and many others. I tell you, we must choose to focus on following the Lord, no matter the distraction.

If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear [Mark 4:23].

We have a supernatural enemy whose aim is to use distractions and deceptiveness to make us blind, stupid, and miserable — forever. The Bible calls him “the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world . . . the accuser” [Revelation 12:9–10], “the ruler of this world” [John 12:31], and “the god of this age” [2 Corinthians 4:4]. He is our “adversary who prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” [1 Peter 5:8] and yet, in the most appalling and unwitting bondage, the whole world willingly “follows the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience” [Ephesians 2:2]. At his most successful, his subjects march obliviously to destruction and take as many with them as they can. Distractions – deceiving, divisive, and deadly!

I admonish you, do not believe everything you see or hear. While we ought not be cynical, we ought to be sober and seek to verify what we see and hear with God’s revealed truth. Do not be deceived.

Life moves very fast. We have only a short time before it’s over. Let us not get caught in the distractions.  Be alert and discerning because the Time is Near!

God looks down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there are any who understand, who seek God. Every one of them has turned aside [Psalms 53: 2-3].

Jesus Weep!

Distractions  – Deceiving, Divisive,  and Deadly.

By Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

Participation in dual enrollment high school and community college programs has increased among students in California. However, the percentage of Black and Latino high school students enrolled in dual enrollment programs has decreased in recent years, according to a study conducted by researchers at the University of California Davis.

California policymakers and educators are integrating dual enrollment as a key mechanism for improving educational attainment, ensuring students have equal access to postsecondary opportunities. State legislators increased funding to expand dual enrollment programs under Assembly Bill 288 authored by Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena), a law that helps facilitate collaboration between high schools and community colleges. California made an annual investment of $200 million for high school students. The state also allocated $10 million for the STEM Pathways Grant program that supports creating 6-year programs for students to graduate with a high school diploma and an associate degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics within 2 years of graduating high school.

Despite California’s investment over the years, the study revealed that the number of Black and Latino high school students enrolled in community college courses has declined since 2020. The enrollment gap between Asian-Pacific Islander students, who have the highest participation rate, and Black students doubled from 7 % in 2019 to 14.5% in 2022.

“For students whose life circumstances, such as economic hardship, may inhibit educational pursuits, opportunities to enroll in community college while in high school may be less accessible,” researchers stated.

Participation rates in dual enrollment programs are lower among socioeconomically disadvantaged students, English learners, youth in foster care, and students with disabilities compared to their counterparts. The research study attributed the steady decline in enrollment rates to the COVID-19 pandemic.

By Joe W. Bowers Jr.  | California Black Media

In 2024, the 12-member California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), introduced nearly 600 bills aimed at improving the lives of all Californians, many with a particular focus on addressing inequities faced by Black citizens. Of these bills, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed 230 into law and vetoed 50. The remaining bills either failed to pass out of committee, were rejected in one of the chambers, or were withdrawn by their authors for possible re-introduction later.

CLBC’s legislative victories reflect their commitment to creating a more equitable California for Black residents across areas like education, healthcare, housing, and criminal justice reform. The following are some of the key bills taking effect on Jan. 1, 2025.

Education Reform for Black Students

Senate Bill (SB) -1348 by CLBC vice-chair Sen. Steven Bradford (D- Inglewood) designates California Black-Serving Institutions (BSIs), a groundbreaking effort to provide additional resources and support to higher education institutions that primarily serve Black students. This bill will help ensure that Black students have access to culturally relevant and equitable educational opportunities.

Assembly Bill (AB)-51 by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Oakland) makes sure that Black families from low-income communities have access to critical early childhood education.

AB-1113 by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D–Sacramento) expands the California Longitudinal Pupil Achievement Data System (CALPADS) to include data on expanded learning opportunity programs. This bill improves the state’s ability to track student outcomes and offer targeted support to underrepresented students, including Black students, addressing systemic inequities in the education system.

Health and Human Services: Improving Health Outcomes for Black Californians

AB-2319 by CLBC chair Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D– Suisun City) mandates implicit bias training for healthcare providers, addressing disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes, especially affecting Black women.

AB-3059 by Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D–La Mesa) requires commercial health plans to cover medically necessary pasteurized donor human milk for infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). This bill also simplifies the process for hospitals to distribute donor milk by removing the need for a tissue bank license, ensuring that families, particularly in Black communities where infant mortality rates are disproportionately high, have access to life-saving nutrition for their newborn.

Tackling the Job Security

Job security is a critical issue for Black Californians, and the CLBC introduced several bills addressing these challenges. SB-1089 by Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D–Los Angeles) requires grocery stores and pharmacies to provide advance notice to workers and the community before closures, addressing the issue of food deserts and limited access to essential services in vulnerable communities.

AB-647 by Assemblymember Chris Holden (D–Pasadena) strengthens grocery worker protections by preventing mass layoffs and ensuring that trained and skilled grocery store and pharmacy workers are rehired. This bill supports job security for workers in essential sectors and helps maintain consistency in food safety and pharmaceutical access in their communities.

Environmental Justice for Black Neighborhoods

Bonta’s AB-2851 mandates air quality monitoring near metal shredding facilities, protecting the health of Black communities often located near industrial areas from harmful pollutants.

Bradford’s SB-1130 prevents low-income Black families from being left out of the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program, which helps subsidize electricity costs. It would also require the state’s three largest investor-owned utilities to report on enrollment of customers in the FERA program.

Criminal Justice and Civil Rights Advocacy

Criminal justice reform remains a top priority for the CLBC given the overrepresentation of Black individuals in California’s criminal justice system. AB-1986 by Assemblymember Issac Bryan (D–Ladera Heights) bans certain books in state prisons, addressing concerns over materials that perpetuate racial stereotypes and divisive ideologies.

AB-3089 by Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D–South Los Angeles) issues a formal apology for California’s role in chattel slavery, calls for systemic reforms and reparative justice for Black Californians.  This bill was a key component of the CLBC’s reparations package.

AB-2975 by Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D–Compton) known as the Secure Hospitals for All Act, focuses on increasing hospital safety by requiring the installation of weapon detection systems at key entrances, such as those for Labor and Delivery and Emergency Departments. The bill aims to reduce workplace violence in hospitals, which disproportionately affects healthcare workers, including many from Black communities

AB-672 by Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D – Moreno Valley) would ensure that Black Californians and other underrepresented communities are able to alert authorities in a timely way regarding alleged violations of civil rights. This bill enhances the state’s civil rights enforcement capability and provides service and support to affected constituents.

Economic Justice and Worker Rights

Economic justice is still a pressing issue especially as Black Californians continue to face higher unemployment rates and economic disparities. Bradford’s SB-1177 ensures that minority-owned businesses, including Black-owned businesses, are prioritized for public utility contracts, helping to create more economic opportunities for Black entrepreneurs.

AB-1 by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) strengthens collective bargaining rights for workers in the California Legislature, protects Black employees, and ensures they are given equal opportunities to advocate for fair treatment and wages.

A Continued Fight for Equity

The 230 CLBC bills signed into law represent tangible progress in education, healthcare, housing, environmental justice, and criminal justice reform.

As the CLBC looks ahead to the next legislative session, Black Californians can expect continued advocacy on the issues that matter most to their communities, with a clear focus on equity, social justice, and economic empowerment.

By Angela M. Coggs

On September 29, 2024, the eyes of San Bernardino were focused on State Farm Stadium, in Glendale, Arizona, where their hometown hero, Jayden Daniels, took the field as the starting quarterback for the Washington Commanders. In just his third NFL game as a rookie, Daniels faced off against the Arizona Cardinals, but it wasn’t just any ordinary game—it was a day of pride and celebration for his family, friends, and fans from his hometown.

A Rising Star

Jayden Daniels, a standout from Cajon High School in San Bernardino, has been a source of inspiration for the local community since his high school days. His athleticism, leadership, and work ethic on the field at Cajon earned him a scholarship to Arizona State University (ASU) and played three seasons, where he became one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in college football. He later transferred to Louisiana State University (LSU) where he exploded in front of the world and won the Heisman in 2023. After a successful collegiate career, Daniels was drafted by the Washington Commanders in the 2024 NFL Draft, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the talented signal-caller.

His meteoric rise to the professional stage has been a point of pride for the San Bernardino community. From youth football leagues to high school glory, Daniels’ journey embodies the dreams of countless young athletes in the region. His hard work, dedication, and perseverance have transformed him into a role model, not just for aspiring football players, but for anyone striving to achieve their goals against the odds.

A Day of Unity and Celebration

When Daniels was named the starter for the Washington Commanders only after his first two NFL games, the San Bernardino community rallied to support their hometown hero against the Arizona Cardinals, it was only a one-hour flight or four-hour drive.  Approximately 100 family members, friends, former coaches, former teachers, current school board member, former principal, and local fans organized trips to attend the game, while many attended on their own to witness Daniels’ first game near his hometown of San Bernardino, California, as a rookie starter. For those who couldn’t make the trip to Arizona, local bars, restaurants, and even parks hosted watch parties, creating a sense of collective pride.

At State Farm Stadium, a strong contingent of supporters from San Bernardino could be seen wearing Commanders jerseys emblazoned with Daniels’ name and number five. Their presence was felt in the stands as they cheered every snap, throw, and scramble by their hometown quarterback.

“It’s surreal to see someone from our town on this stage,” said Coach Nick Rodgers, who coached Daniels at Cajon High School. “He’s always had that ‘it’ factor, and to see him living his dream is an incredible moment for all of us who’ve been a part of his journey.”

A Promising Start to an NFL Career

In just his third NFL game, Daniels has shown promise as a rookie quarterback. His dual-threat ability, honed during his college years, has been a key feature of his early NFL career. Although the Washington Commanders entered the game with a 2-1 record, Daniels had already impressed with his ability to extend plays with his legs and make accurate downfield throws.

Against the Arizona Cardinals, Daniels demonstrated poise under pressure, connecting with his receivers for crucial gains and keeping the defense on its heels with his mobility. Though he is still adjusting to the speed of the professional game, his potential is clear, and many believe he could be a key piece of the Commanders’ future success. The Commanders beat the Cardinals 42-14. At one point Daniels waited for a couple of blockers and then weaved forward for a 9- yard touchdown run, flipped the ball behind his back before doing a little dance and flashing his bright smile. Washington Redskins legendary quarterback Doug Williams  was on the sidelines and the camera caught a glimpse of him providing some encouraging words and inspiration to the young quarterback.

A Symbol of Hope

For the San Bernardino community, Jayden Daniels represents more than just athletic success—he symbolizes hope. In a city that has faced its share of challenges, Daniels’ story of resilience and achievement serves as a reminder that with dedication and support, dreams can become reality.

Community members, whether they knew him personally or followed his career from afar, are inspired by his journey. Daniels’ rise to the NFL shows that despite the obstacles young people may face, hard work and determination can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.

Looking Forward

As Jayden Daniels continues his rookie season, the support from San Bernardino will undoubtedly grow stronger. His journey has only just begun, but his impact on the field and within his community is already profound. Every throw, every touchdown, and every win are celebrated not just in Washington, D.C., but by a community thousands of miles away that continues to root for one of its own.

For San Bernardino, September 29, 2024, will be remembered as a day when their hero took to the field and brought them along on his journey to NFL stardom.

The Washington Commanders are currently 4-1 in the NFC and Daniels has been breaking records after every game. This is the first team since 1970 to score 150 plus points in their first five games while starting a rookie quarterback.

“It feels good that we’re able to execute the gameplan, but we’ve still got room to grow,” Daniels said.

By Angela M. Coggs

On September 7, 2024, the San Bernardino Riverside Area Alumnae Chapter (SBRAAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., hosted a heartwarming and inspiring prayer breakfast that brought together members and community leaders under the theme, “Coming Together in Love to Reach, Restore, and Impact Our Communities.” Held at the Sterling Natural Resource Center in San Bernardino, this spiritually uplifting event centered on fostering love and unity to make a positive difference in the local community.

Dr. Stephanie Davis-Carruth, SBRAAC 1st Vice President, who served as the Mistress of Ceremonies, opened the event by welcoming everyone with grace and setting the tone for a morning filled with reflection and inspiration. An engaging Ice Breaker activity presented by SFeledier “Let” Thrower followed, bringing attendees together in a lighthearted but meaningful way, helping to establish a sense of unity among participants.

The event was enriched by two moving musical performance by soloist Corinthian Buffington and Yolanda Dancy, whose powerful voice captivated the audience. Both songs created a contemplative atmosphere, enhancing the sense of spiritual community in the room.

The keynote address, delivered by Pastor Samuel J. Casey, was the true highlight of the morning. Pastor Casey, Senior Pastor of New Life Christian Church in Fontana, California, and the executive director of Congregations Organized for Prophetic Engagement (C.O.P.E.), offered a stirring and motivational message. His words energized the entire room, reminding everyone of the power of love, faith, and action in making lasting impacts in their communities. Pastor Casey emphasized the importance of community solidarity, calling for each individual to be a force for restoration and positive change in their neighborhoods.

Dr. Shene’ Bowie-Hussey, SBRAAC’s chapter president, further highlighted the chapter’s mission to reach out to underserved communities and restore hope where it is needed most. She applauded the efforts of the sorority members and encouraged continued engagement in social action initiatives.

A well-organized Social Action Presentation followed, focusing on the vital issue of voter registration. The presentation outlined the critical importance of being informed and engaged in the electoral process at the local, state, and national levels. With upcoming elections on the horizon, the presentation aimed to mobilize attendees to not only register themselves but also encourage others in their communities to exercise their right to vote.

The event was funded in part by a grant from BEI, showcasing the chapter’s commitment to fostering partnerships that support their community outreach goals.

SBRAAC’s September Prayer Breakfast left attendees feeling empowered, united, and ready to take actionable steps toward improving their communities. Through heartfelt speeches, uplifting music, and vital social action education, the event truly embodied its theme, bringing Sorors and guest together in love to reach, restore, and impact the world around them.

By Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

The California Community Colleges’ ICanGoToCollege.com campaign has launched the second season of its EDUCATE. ELEVATE. podcast series, which focuses on promoting Black student enrollment and retention. Season 1 had over 60,000 listeners, and the new season aims to build on this success by featuring inspiring student stories and expert advice.

The first episode of the new season brings together former foster youth Kevion Louis-Hernandez, Mt. San Antonio College alum; and Junely Merwin, a NextUp Project Expert, with host Danny Morrison. The conversation explores the challenges foster youth face and highlights the transformative impact of community college programs like NextUp, which help students overcome obstacles to reach their higher education and career goals.

“This season continues our commitment to addressing barriers faced by Black students and increasing equitable access to higher education,” said Paige Marlatt Dorr, Director of Communications and Marketing for California Community Colleges.

EDUCATE. ELEVATE. is part of a broader initiative to reverse the significant enrollment declines experienced by Black students during the pandemic. Black student enrollment dropped by 25% system-wide between 2019 and 2022, but outreach efforts and support services have helped increase enrollment by nearly 15% over the last two years, bringing the total to almost 114,000 Black students in the 2023-24 academic year.

The podcast series features candid discussions on overcoming systemic barriers, educational resources, and strategies for student success. Season 2 offers a new visual style and will release episodes every two to three weeks through May 2025.

To listen to the podcast and learn more, visit the Black Student Success page at ICanGoToCollege.com.

By Antonio? ?Ray? ?Harvey? ?|? ?California? ?Black? ?Media?

As Native Americans celebrated 100 years of citizenship and the right to vote at the State Capitol, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a proclamation declaring Native American Day and signed several bills aimed at pushing tribal priorities forward.

The package of bills, which includes policies to enhance laws for vulnerable Native American youth and increase access to social supports, was signed on Sept. 27, while hundreds of people attended the event commemorating the 57th annual California Native American Day.

“I’m proud of the progress California has made to reckon with the dark chapters of our past, and we’re committed to continuing this important work to promote equity, inclusion, and accountability for Native peoples,” Newsom stated. “As we celebrate the many tribal communities in California today, we recommit to working with tribal partners to better address their unique needs and strengthen California for all.”

Newsom signed seven tribal-related bills introduced by Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino), including Assembly Bill (AB) 2695, which helps California track trends in domestic violence and collect accurate information concerning violence in tribal lands.

AB 2695 will require the California Department of Justice (DOJ) to align its records and data with the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) to assist law enforcement agencies and other entities with identifying where incidents related to Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) are taking place.

In addition, the bill requires law enforcement to document whether domestic violence incidents took place in Indian Country.

Ramos is the first Native American elected to the California legislature and the chair of the California Legislative Native American Caucus (CLNAC).

“This measure will help California deal with the lack of clear data about MMIP and where domestic violence occurs,” stated Ramos, a member of the Serrano-Cahuilla tribe.  “That information will better inform us about how to deal with this issue as California ranks fifth in the nation in MMIP unresolved cases.”

According to Ramos’ office, “the National Institute of Justice 2016 report discovered that 84% of American Indian/Alaska Native women (1.5 million people) experience violence in their lifetimes, 67% feared for their own safety, and 41% had been physically harmed from physical violence by intimate partners, stalked, and sexually assaulted.

Underreporting, racial misclassification, bias, and lack of resources to follow through and properly close cases are also obstacles when working on MMIP cases. The DOJ will now have the assets to address those issues.

“For the first time in California, law enforcement agencies will be required to collect data on crimes occurring on Indian lands and report that information to my office,” Attorney General Rob Bonta stated. “(AB 2695) will help all of us develop data-driven strategies to end the MMIP crisis in our state and improve justice for tribal citizens.”

As part of the CLNAC’s priority package, Newsom signed into law Assembly Bill 2795 authored by Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula (D-Fresno). Ramos is the co-author of the legislation.

AB 2795 lowers administrative barriers to CalWORKS and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) services at Indian health clinics in the state. Currently, the law authorizes California to fund clinics that provide substance abuse and mental health treatment services. Despite the law, reporting and reimbursement requirements have made the funds almost unreachable to these clinics.

“It is vital that we ensure members of tribal communities have equitable access to safety net programs when needed,” Arambula stated.

The day of the signing of the bills by CLNAC, Newsom proclaimed Native American Day, a decree that commemorates 100 years ago when Native Americans were conferred citizenship in the United States and the right to vote in California. Native Americans have dealt with generational hate and policies that resulted in the taking of their land and resources. Native American Day is a moment of reckoning, the proclamation declares.

“This important milestone is not without controversy – Congress’ act was in furtherance of assimilationist policy during a period marked by the forced removal of Native children from their families, the seizure and sale of Native lands, and prohibitions on languages Native people spoke since time immemorial,” the Newsom’s decree stated.

“This California Native American Day, I encourage all Californians to learn more about the ways California Native peoples throughout the state are cultivating a new generation of leaders and empowering their communities to build a sustainable future for all.”

Native American Day began in California in 1939, when Gov. Culbert Olson dedicated October 1 as “Indian Day.”

In 1968, California Tribal Leaders and Gov. Ronald Reagan rebranded the fourth Friday of September as “California Indian Day.” The celebration was renamed “Native American Day” in 2015 under the Jerry Brown Administration.

Facilitated by the Native American Heritage Commission and the California Tribal Chairperson Association, the 2024 version of the event attracted hundreds of people for a full day of activities. It was a great opportunity for all to celebrate the rich history, culture of California Tribes, and its first people.

To further the acknowledgment of California Native Americans, Newsom signed Ramos’ AB 1821, a bill that requires California public schools teach the history of the impact on California Native Americans during Spanish Mission and Gold Rush eras.

Tony Thurmond, State Superintendent of Public Instructions, co-sponsored AB 1821.

“This legislation will help ensure curriculum on California’s Spanish Mission and Gold Rush eras accurately captures the treatment and impact of Native Americans during these significant eras in state history,” Thurmond stated. “This initiative supports California’s diverse students to be seen, heard, and understood in their instructional materials, and to foster a deeper appreciation for our Native communities’ history and cultures.”

This resource is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library in partnership with the 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.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

Prop 4 proposes issuing $10 billion in bonds to fund state and local parks, environmental protection projects, water infrastructure projects, energy projects, and flood protection projects. Additionally, 40% of the bond revenue would be used to fund activities that benefit communities with lower incomes or that are affected by environmental changes or disasters.

$3.8 billion would help pay to improve drinking water systems and prepare for droughts and floods. Another $1.5 billion would go to programs focused on wildfire preparedness and $1.2 billion would go to programs combating the rise of the sea level. The remaining funds would be divided up.

Supporters of the proposition argue that the threat climate change brings to the state is an immediate one. Issues like wildfires, water pollution, and extreme heat call for funding to be directed towards countering the effects of climate change. Several environmental groups are backing the measure as well.

Supporters say urgency to push for the proposition increased even more when Gov. Gavin Newsom scaled back the “California Climate Commitment,” which originally was a $54.3 billion spending package. In the most recent budget, it was cut to $44.6 billion.

Katelyn Roedner Sutter, State Director of the California Environmental Defense Fund, is on record saying, “We need to be not only helping communities adapt to climate change right now, but we also need to be reducing our climate pollution. This is not a problem that can wait until it’s convenient to fund in the budget.”

Ariana Rickard, public policy and funding program manager for Sonoma Land Trust, added, “Every Californian has felt the impact of the climate crisis, whether it is wildfires, extreme heat, flooding, sea level rise. I feel like this will resonate with voters who want to protect themselves and their communities.”

The bond measure would also require the Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency to publish a list of programs and projects on the agency’s website for the public, increasing transparency and accountability with the public. The measure would require the report to list the project’s location, objective, status, anticipated outcomes, total cost, amount of bond funding, and any matching funds.

Opponents argue that using bonds to pay for what they call “unproven technologies” is not the most prudent way to approach the issues. They believe the state should pay for projects like this without taking on more debt.

Governments, corporations and municipalities issue bonds when they need capital. An investor who buys a government bond is lending the government money. If an investor buys a corporate bond, the investor is lending the corporation money. Like a loan, a bond pays interest periodically and repays the principal at a stated time, known as maturity. Taxpayers eventually are burdened with paying for the bonds the Government issues.

Howard Jarvis of the Taxpayers Association is on the record stating that “These bonds will be paid by people decades from now that didn’t even get to vote for their authorization.”

A “yes” vote supports the state issuing $10 billion in bonds to fund state and local parks, environmental protection projects, water infrastructure projects, energy projects, and flood protection projects.

A “no” vote opposes the state issuing $10 billion in bonds to fund state and local parks, environmental protection projects, water infrastructure projects, energy projects, and flood protection projects.