On Jan. 20, Sen. Lola Smallwood Cuevas (D-Inglewood), a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), hosted a “listening session” at Pasadena Church in Pasadena.
In The News
With President Donald Trump bound for Los Angeles today and once again threatening to withhold wildfire aid to California unless the state abides by his water policies, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed two bills Thursday to provide $2.5 billion in state funding for wildfire response and preparedness, writes CalMatters’ Sameea Kamal.
California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a pair of bills Thursday providing $2.5 billion in funding for Los Angeles wildfire recovery, just hours after the Legislature sent the legislation to his desk.
In the wake of the devastating disaster that has ravaged communities across Southern California, faith leaders, labor advocates, grassroots organizers, and impacted residents united, led by Senior Pastor and Head Coach Kerwin Manning and First African Methodist Episcopal Church of Pasadena, led by Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Larry E. Campbell.
Amid the damage and despair caused by firestorms in the Los Angeles area, the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) held its annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast in Sacramento on his birthday, Jan. 15.
Senator Lola Smallwood has released the following statement about Governor Newsom's proposed 2025-26 budget:
"The Governor's 2025-26 budget plan reflects a fiscally responsible approach while prioritizing vital initiatives that support working families and everyday Californians. As Chair of the Senate Labor, Public Employment and Retirement Committee, I commend the Governor's efforts to propose a budget that reflects a commitment to economic development and worker health and safety.
“Just turn around for a moment, Triston, and see all these faces. Look at these people who are here for you tonight.” When Second District Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell came up to the stage to officiate the oath of office for CCUSD School Board President Triston Ezidore, she had him look at the room, the very crowded room, full of people there to celebrate the occasion. He was moved.
As 2025 approaches, California is ushering in a wave of transformative laws aimed at enhancing the health, safety, and well-being of its residents. Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the practical nature of these reforms, which tackle key issues like retail crime, digital security, and worker rights across the state.