Enough is Enough. Safeguarding California's Communities.

At the RALLY FOR JUSTICE FOR KEITH PORTER AND RENEE GOOD in Sacramento, we added our voices and strength to the nationwide movement demanding an immediate end to ICE operations in the United States. But, only days later, the nation was rocked by ANOTHER public execution of an American citizen by ICE agents. Video evidence proves Alex Pretti was acting within his constitutional rights and according to Minnesota open carry law, yet ICE agents shot him TEN TIMES!  In SACRAMENTO we are mobilizing a coalition of experts and legislators to fight back against the egregious and murderous overreach of this federal administration.

This year, I am authoring Senate Bill 938- The Community Trust Act to prevent former Department of Homeland Security agents from working in state and local law enforcement. The dehumanizing tactics of these immigration agents do not align with California and the community trust we are building with state and local law enforcement agencies. If enacted, SB 938 can help ensure that those responsible for our safety are committed to treating every neighbor across California’s diverse communities with dignity and respect.

In these dark times, COMMEMORATIONS of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. took on a more somber feeling in SD 20. Yet, we took to heart his call to be a “glittering daybreak of freedom and justice,” by not only remembering his teachings, but by also committing to practicing them with sustained action. This year I joined the Boys and Girls Club of San Fernando Valley for their MLK Breakfast and Day of Service, and the Burbank Human Relations Council “I Have a Dream” Breakfast, which included recognition of the writing, poetry, and art of youth leaders. 

Looking for immigration resources? LA County’s Office of Immigrant Affairs hosts monthly meetings on immigration policy updates, Orientations for New Asylees, and Know Your Rights! Check their calendar for February webinars HERE.

Need assistance accessing fresh and free produce? Each week, Zawadi Cultural Collective brings their food distribution to Winnetka. District Rep. Teodora recently had the opportunity to VISIT the location and show us the amazing work they do in our community every Saturday!

SAVE THE DATE for Pupusas & Taxes on April 11! I’m partnering with Golden State Opportunity, New Economics for Women, and Magnolia Science Academy in Reseda once again, to bring IRS-certified tax preparers directly to my constituents. Find out if you qualify for additional state tax credits and enjoy delicious pupusas, all for free! Plus, learn about constituent services offered by my District Office. RSVP link coming soon!

* Appointments required. Eligibility requirements include individuals with income under $67,000 and basic returns only (W-2). Food and tax services not paid for at taxpayers’ expense

Before the land now known as the San Fernando Valley existed, it was a sea with volcanos spewing lava to the west and surrounded by colliding tectonic plates. The mountains began their rise about 4 million years ago and earthquakes continue to raise them today. During the 1994 earthquake alone, the northern San Fernando Valley is estimated to have been lifted a foot! 

Thank you for reading the Senate District 20 Newsletter
 

May you and your families be well,

Senator Caroline Menjivar, MSW