More than 300 Latinas converged at California’s Capitol to advocate for improving college pathways, removing barriers to good health for children, improving the quality of health for women, and increasing internet access for all communities. The 16th annual Latina Action Day was marked by the commitment, knowledge, and ambition of high school and college students, and professionals of all ages, who visited over 120 legislative and agency offices to make their voices heard.
Latina issues are Californian issues. Many Latina Action Day speakers and guests of honor reminded of this important concept. With approximately half of all babies in California being born to Latina mothers, advocacy for our community is as important now as ever.
Among the many issues addressed by this group of ewomen, participants in HOPE’s Leadership Institute are speaking with legislators directly about four specific bills: HOPE supports AB 1825 (De La Torre), which would require insurance companies to the provide maternity services. A bill to limit electrolyte replacement drinks from being sold at schools, SB1255 (Padilla), is also being strongly supported. SB 974 (Steinberg) is a promising bill that would create a fiscal incentive for California’s businesses to enter into partnerships with middle and high school students to increase career pathways, and which HOPE is maintaining a “watch” position on. Lastly, SB 381 (Wright) prohibits schools from adopting A-G requirements unless the district also requires career and technical education (CTE) courses — HOPE does not support this bill.
Powerful and personal stories were shared throughout the day. Here, Hilda Morales describes her experience of attending a community community college to prepare her for a successful transfer to UC Berkley.
Check out all of these stories on HOPE’s YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/hopeactvotevideopetition.
Using our voices, knowledge, and technology, the women of Latina Action Day made their important stories known in Sacramento, and will no doubt continue working year-round to improve the status of Latinas and all Californians.
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