Here is a message from our friends at CAUSE:
In partnership with the City of Santa Maria, CAUSE is hosting an Environmental Justice Community Cafe to bring in a broad range of perspectives as Santa Maria enters the second phase of its General Plan initiative.
Our team believes you and your organization's input would be invaluable and hope you will consider joining us on February 16th from 5:30-7:00 through Zoom. (Click on this link to add this event to your calendar!) Beginning with a short presentation, our time will be structured with guiding questions to discuss EJ topics related to SB 1000 and identify areas we believe should be prioritized in the General Plan.
As you know, EJ includes a broad range of our daily lives. SB 1000, which was passed in 2016, mandates that cities integrate EJ goals into their General Plan using these 8 areas:
- Reduce the unique and compounded health risks in "Disadvantaged Communities."
- Reduce pollution exposure and improve air quality.
- Promote public facilities.
- Promote food access.
- Promote safe and sanitary homes.
- Promote physical activity.
- Promote “civil engagement” in the public decision-making process.
- Prioritize improvements and programs that address the needs of disadvantaged communities.
If you are interested in learning more, CEJA created this incredible toolkit about creating a strong EJ plan.
Please spread the word to your circles and invite anyone willing to share their input on this important aspect of the General Plan. If you have any questions about the event, please reach out to me.
Look forward to meeting with you soon!
Rebeca
Rebeca Garcia (she/her/ella)
Policy Advocate
(805) 825-6975
120 E. Jones St. Santa Maria, CA 93454
w: www.causenow.org e: [email protected]
Here is a message from CAUSE Action Fund:
Over the last several years it's been exciting to see new leadership stepping up to the plate and changing the political landscape. That’s why we’re already on the lookout for more emerging leaders in our communities to empower to run!
Our Justice Leadership Institute is a training program to develop the next generation of diverse progressive leaders in our region to run for elected office.
This year we'll be kicking off the program virtually, and offering spots to people from our five base cities Santa Maria, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Oxnard and Santa Paula, communities often passed over for political representation and investment and have too many homegrown leaders whose potential has been overlooked.
We’re looking for people rooted in the community who will work with grassroots movements towards a fair economy, an inclusive society, and a healthy environment. We need leaders who will be bold voices for justice in difficult times, hold the highest standards of integrity and accountability, and be effective in getting things done.
Participants in the Justice Leadership Institute will learn about how to run a campaign for public office, understand a wide range of policy issues, and navigate the world of politics to make an impact while staying grounded in their values.
We’re holding two open informational sessions at our offices in Oxnard and Santa Maria to learn more about the Justice Leadership Institute and how to apply:
Tuesday, February 23rd 5:30-7:00 on zoom
RSVP (email for link):
Ventura County: [email protected], 805-658-0810
Santa Barbara County: [email protected], 805-922-4447
We all know someone who we’ve always thought should run for office one day. It's time to ask them to think about it. Participants don’t have to be ready to run tomorrow. But if they’re interested in taking that step at some point, we want to support them with training and advice today.
Thank you!
Rebeca Garcia (she/her/ella)
Policy Advocate
(805) 825-6975
120 E. Jones St. Santa Maria, CA 93454
e: [email protected]