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By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

As time passes, the details of our great African American historical figures begin to feel more like legends than concrete facts. At the beginning of this Women’s History Month in 2024, and as March marks the 201st year since Harriet Tubman was presumably born, California Black Media (CBM) honors this monumental figure by sharing 10 little-known facts about her life.

1. Harriet was not her birth name.

Historical accounts suggest that Tubman was born between 1820 and 1821 into slavery in Eastern Maryland.

The then-named “Araminta Ross” was the daughter of Ben Ross, a skilled woodsman, and Harriet ‘Rit’ Green. Tubman worked from the age of six, as a maidservant and later in the fields, enduring inhumane treatment, and brutal conditions.

Tubman adopted her mother’s name after escaping slavery, and her surname came from her first marriage in 1844, to a free Black man John Tubman. This blended marriage was complicated by her slave status, passed on by her mother, but was not uncommon.

2. She was the first woman to lead an armed assault in the Civil War.

Recognizing the significance of a Union victory for the abolition of slavery, Tubman contributed to the war effort as scout, a nurse, a cook, and a spy to Federal troops.

In June 1863, Tubman worked alongside Colonel James Montgomery to assault plantations along the Combahee River. Using intelligence from escaped slaves, she guided Union riverboats through Confederate torpedo traps. At least 750 slaves were freed in the mission. Unfortunately, despite Tubman’s years of service, she never received a regular salary and was denied veteran’s compensation for 34 years.

3. She helped find a cure for dysentery.

During her time as a nurse during the Civil War, Tubman was credited for providing a treatment for dysentery. Many people in the hospital where she worked were suffering from the disease. Tubman used her knowledge of plant roots to put together a herbal remedy that alleviated the patient’s symptoms and facilitated their recovery from the disease.

4. She refused anesthesia when undergoing brain surgery in 1898

Tubman lived much of her life experiencing severe migraines and seizures due to an injury inflicted on her by her slave owners. By the late 1890s, the pain in her head had affected her ability to sleep. Fortunately, she found a doctor in Boston willing to operate on her brain. Instead of receiving anesthesia while the doctor cut open her skull and performed the surgery, she chose to bite on a bullet — something she had seen soldiers do during the Civil War when they suffered pain on the battlefield.

5. She had a beautiful singing voice

Tubman reportedly had a beautiful singing voice and would sing two songs – “Go Down Moses” and “Bound for the Promised Land” – as signals while leading escape missions. Tubman would change the tempo of the songs to let escaping slaves know if it was safe to come out of hiding.

6. Two years after escaping captivity, Tubman came back for her husband, but he refused to leave. 

When Harriet escaped slavery in 1850, she left her husband behind in Maryland. Two years later, she returned hoping to bring her husband north with her. However, she soon discovered that he had married another woman and had no desire to leave. Instead, she found a group of slaves who wanted to escape and brought them up to Philadelphia.

7. Her second husband was 22 years younger than Tubman when they wed in 1869.

Tubman’s second husband was Nelson Davis, a veteran of the Civil War. At the time of their marriage, Tubman was 59 years old, while Davis was just 37. In 1874, the pair adopted a baby girl named Gertie. They shared a life together for 20 years before Davis passed away.

8. She was an active proponent of women’s suffrage.

Tubman worked alongside women suffragettes such as Susan B Anthony and Emily Howland. She travelled to New York, Boston and Washington speaking about her actions during the Civil War and her role as an Underground Railroad conductor. Her speeches were seen as validations of the struggle for women’s rights.

9. Harriet Tubman has two National Park sites dedicated to her memory.

The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park in Dorchester County, Maryland, interprets Tubman’s early life and features a visitor center with thorough and informative exhibits, the site of the plantation where Tubman was enslaved as a girl, and the general store where she suffered her traumatic head injury. The Harriet Tubman National Historical Park in Auburn, New York, tells the story of her later life and includes the house she owned. Visitors can also see Tubman’s grave at a nearby cemetery that is unaffiliated with the historical park.

10. She converted the home she owned into an assisted living facility.

Tubman was very passionate about the lives of senior citizens. She founded ‘The Tubman Home for Aged and Indigent Negroes’ in 1908 with help from the A.M.E. Zion Church. The facility was located in Auburn, New York, and was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1974.

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

The process the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) promised to initiate to pass a package of reparations bills began Feb. 26, on the Assembly floor at the State Capitol with the passage of Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 135.

Authored by Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa), ACR 135 — or the “Human rights violations and crimes against humanity on African slaves and their descendants” — recognizes the “harms and atrocities committed by representatives of the State of California who promoted, facilitated, enforced and permitted the institution of chattel slavery,” according to the language of the resolution.

The measure was unanimously approved with a 57-0 vote on the Assembly floor.

“ACR 135 is not only a resolution to affirm the (California Reparations Task Force) report,” Weber. Said during her presentation on the Assembly floor.  “It is also meant to educate ourselves on California’s history. Ida B. Wells wrote, ‘The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them.’ The reparations task force turned the light on truth, and this is laid out in ACR 135.”

The nine-member reparations task force submitted a comprehensive 1,075-page report to the Legislature on June 28, 2023. The report contains the panel’s findings from a two-year study that involved investigations of harms, testimonies from community members, and up to 115 recommendations for compensation for eligible Black Californians.

On January 31, the CLBC announced the introduction of the 2024 Reparations Priority Bill Package, which includes 14 pieces of legislation that represents the first step in a multi-year effort to implement the legislative recommendations in the report.

ACR 15 was among the list of considerations.

Regarding the passage of significant legislation related to reparations for Black Californians, Weber is following in her mother’s footsteps.

Her mother, California Secretary of State Shirley Weber, authored AB 3121, the California Task Force to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans, as an Assemblymember representing the 79^th District. This legislation was the first-in-the-nation bill created at the state level to study and recommend redress for past injustices against the descendants of African people enslaved in the United States.

During the announcement of the rollout of the bills on Feb. 21, CLBC Chair, Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City), said the package was part of “30 reparations bills” the Black lawmakers are developing. A bill requesting a formal apology from the Governor and the Legislature for California’s historical injustices against African Americans is next in line, Wilson said.

The passage of ACR 135 will officially open discussions about reparations, Wilson said.

“This year’s legislative package tackles a wide range of issues from criminal justice reforms to property rights to education, civil rights, and food justice,” Wilson stated. “The Caucus is looking to make strides in the second half of this legislative session as we build towards righting the wrongs of California’s past in future sessions.”

Before the vote, members from the CLBC spoke about the significance of the report, educating their colleagues about the issues that affected the Black community after slavery, and the task ahead to get the reparations bills to the Governor’s desk.

The members of the CLBC that spoke on the floor were Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D- Ladera Heights), Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Alameda), Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena), Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson), Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D-Riverside), Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D- Los Angeles), Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood), and Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento).

Other members of the Assembly body shared their sentiments about ACR 135 as well.

Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-Highland), the first Native American elected to the California Legislature, expressed his support for the bill.

“The consequences of those 246 years of slavery and a 100 of segregation still plague African Americans today, and indeed plagues all Americans today,” said Ramos. “It is a history of trauma that still needs to come to light to make sure we can overcome and start the healing process – not only in our nation but here also in the state of California. During those times of slavery, bondage and oppression, many African Americans fled that type of treatment to find solitude with Native American tribes.”

Assemblymember Bill Essayli (R-Corona) condemned the state’s dark past.

“I rise in commendation of racial discrimination and the despicable indefensible treatment of Black Californians in our state’s early years,” Essayli said. “But I also rise as a proud Californian and believe that despite the bleak history of our early days our state has often been at the forefront of the fight for racial equality.”

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Time for Change Foundation’s (TFCF) 22nd Anniversary Awards Gala will honor outstanding individuals and organizations that go above and beyond for our communities and continue to make a difference in the lives of others.

Bobby Wagner, a football player of the NFL, will be honored with the Philanthropist of the Year Award for his outstanding dedication as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and investor. Born in Los Angeles and raised in Ontario, CA, Bobby Wagner was drafted 47th overall in the 2012 NFL draft by the Seattle Seahawks. Quickly excelling on the field, Bobby won a Super Bowl in 2013, and throughout his career, has earned nine Pro-Bowl selections, six First-Team All-Pros, four- Second Team All-Pros, a 2010 NFL All-Decade Team, the Seattle Seahawks Walter Payton Man of the Year Nominee (2x) and the Art Rooney Sportsmanship award. He currently leads all active players in total tackles.

Bobby’s passion to promote stroke education and assist stroke patients has led to a partnership with the American Heart & Stroke Association, as well as the creation of the Phenia Mae Fund in partnership with Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, Cedar Sinai, and Kaiser Permanente. Additionally, Bobby has worked closely with several organizations, such as the Boys and Girls Club of King County, Time for Change Foundation and HBCUs, to advocate for health and wellness, education, and child development.

“We appreciate the heart behind Bobby’s giving which is why we chose to honor him at this year’s gala,” said Vanessa Perez, Executive Director, “his support to his local community is helping single mothers provide a stable home for their children, that’s priceless!”

Other Award Honorees include:

Dawn Downs at Symbiosis with the Businesswoman of the Year Award, Laurena Bolden at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians with the Community Champion Award, Dr. Rita (Faridah) Ali from We 2 Matter with the Humanitarian Award, Rev. George Lamb at F.A.C.C.T with the Lifetime Achievement Award, Kellie Todd Griffin at CA Black Women’s Collective with the Michelle Obama Courage Award, Pastor Craig Hadley from Paradox Church with the Nancy Varner Angel Award, and Rialto ROTC with the Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award.

Time for Change Foundation’s 22nd Anniversary Awards Gala will be held on Friday, April 19th, 2024, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Ontario, California at 6:00 p.m. PST. To support the work of Time for Change Foundation, you can become a sponsor, purchase an ad in the event program book, or purchase a Gala ticket.

To register for the event or to become a sponsor and increase your business’s visibility in the community, please visit our website at www.TimeForChangeFoundation.org, or contact Florence White at (909) 886-2994 or by email at fwhite@timeforchangefoundation.org.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The City of San Bernardino has announced that Andrea E. Russell has joined its leadership team as its new Human Resources and Risk Management Director.

“Andrea Russell has demonstrated her diverse and distinguished human resources experience in her time with the city,” said City Manager Charles Montoya. “Her background in recruitment will play an important role as San Bernardino continues to strategically hire additional staff.”

Russell joined San Bernardino in June 2023 as a Supervising Human Resources Analyst and has been serving as the Interim Human Resources and Risk Management Director since January. Prior to joining the city, Russell was a Human Resources Advisor to multiple public sector agencies in the areas of recruitment and candidate selection, applicant tracking systems administration, and employee classification and compensation.

“I am honored to serve the City of San Bernardino as Director of Human Resources and Risk Management,” said Russell. “This is an exciting time for the city, and I look forward to contributing to its success.”

Prior to consulting, Russell spent over 20 years in human resources for local government agencies, including with the County of San Bernardino and cities of Covina, Riverside, and Henderson (Nevada). While at the County, she led their classification and compensation process; overhauled the recruitment processes from requisition to hire; implemented innovative off-site hiring events; and worked with union representatives.

Russell holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Nevada State University, and a master’s degree in human resources management from Capella University.

The Human Resources and Risk Management Director is responsible for the planning, organization, direction, implementation of San Bernardino’s City-wide human resources and risk management programs. This includes recruitment, employment, classification, compensation, employee relations, training and development, performance evaluation, benefits, and workers’ compensation for the City’s 879 employees.

Russell replaces Suzie Soren, who was promoted to Deputy City Manager in January.

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

On February 21, the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) held a press conference at the State Capitol organized to introduce a package of reparations legislation the lawmakers call “a starting point” to atone for the state’s legacy of discrimination.

All 12 members of the CLBC were present to explain their efforts to rectify the damages caused by the systemic discrimination against Black Californians detailed in the 1,100-page report by the first-in-the-nation California reparations task force.

The nine-member panel submitted the recommendations on June 28, 2023.

CLBC chairperson Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) said it may take three to seven years to pass legislation aimed at implementing the task force recommendations.

The package the CLBC members presented consists of 14 legislative proposals, each designed to address different aspects of systemic racism and inequality.

One proposal by Assemblymember Cory Jackson (D-Riverside), ACA 7, seeks to amend the voter-passed initiative, Prop 209, that prohibits considering race, color, sex, or nationality in public employment, education, and contracting decisions. This amendment would allow the governor to approve exceptions to the law to address poverty and improve educational outcomes for African Americans and other marginalized groups.

Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood) discussed legislation aimed at compensating families whose properties were seized through eminent domain as a result of racism and discrimination.

The package of bills includes a measure proposed by Assemblymember Reggie Jones Sawyer (D-Los Angeles), Assembly Bill (AB) 3089 to formally acknowledge California’s history of slavery and discrimination, requiring lawmakers to issue a formal apology.

Additionally, a proposed constitutional amendment, ACA 8, sponsored by CBLC chair, Lori Wilson aims to ban involuntary servitude, particularly within the state’s prison system.

Reparations advocates and social justice groups from statewide organizations shared their support and criticism of the 14-bill reparations package with California Black Media (CBM).

A Coalition for a Just and Equitable California (CJEC) stated that the CLBC’s package does not address direct-cash payment, which, for that group’s leadership, is a non-negotiable component of any proposed compensation package.

“Our coalition’s unwavering commitment has been to pursue lineage-based reparations, encompassing direct monetary payments/compensation, state recognition of descendants as a protected class, and the establishment of the California American Freedman Affairs Agency through Senate Bill (SB) 490,” CJEC member Chris Lodgson outlined in a statement.

Lodgson continued, “We believe these vital components are imperative and a necessary first step toward true Reparations. As we’ve communicated to elected officials directly for some time, we believe any Reparations package must be targeted explicitly and exclusively to California’s 2 million Black American descendants of person enslaved in the U.S. (American Freedmen).”

Media present at the news briefing persistently questioned Wilson and other CLBC members about direct payments.

Wilson mentioned that the budget deficit California is currently facing has become consideration in discussions about compensation. A Legislative Analyst’s Office report released  Feb. 20, estimates that the state’s budget shortfall could expand to $73 billion by May.

“In regard to direct-cash payments to individuals we will continue to have that discussion as we navigate the next few years,” Wilson said. “As noted, we’re halfway through a legislative session. We have about three months of the legislative process in each house (Senate and Assembly) to work through these existing bills. In the next session, we have two years, and during that two-year session, we will consider of the fall concluding additional payments whether they are direct-cash payments or direct payments to communities,” Wilson said.

The Alliance for Reparations, Reconciliation, and Truth (ARRT), a collaboration of California’s leading Black power-building and justice groups, supports seven of CLBC’s 14 reparations bills with proposals that include the restoration of property, establishing the property tax assistance for Descendants of enslaved persons program, a formal apology for human rights violations and crimes against humanity, amending the California Constitution to prohibit involuntary servitude for incarcerated persons, and prohibiting discrimination based on natural and protective hairstyles.

“The California Legislative Black Caucus reparations package marks a historic and meaningful moment in time. ARRT encourages lawmakers to pursue an even more expansive and definitive action to fulfill the reparations principles as recognized by the United Nations,” stated James Woodson, AART co-founder and Executive Director of the California Black Power Network. “Reparative justice must be impactful, transformative, and enduring, thus paving the way toward atoning for the wrongdoings deeply imprinted in the state’s history and healing this democracy.”

ARRT is a collaboration between the Black Equity Collective, the California Black Power Network, Catalyst California, Equal Justice Society, and Live Free USA, Live Free California.

Former members of the California reparations task force have partnered   with AART: Loyola-Marymount clinical psychologist professor Dr. Cheryl Grills, Oakland-based civil rights attorney Lisa Holder, Chair of the Department of Geography at the University of California Berkeley professor Dr. Jovan Scott Lewis, and Oakland-based attorney Donald Tamaki.

“We absolutely are (in support of direct-cash payments),” Woodson told California Black Media. “I think we got to have it all. There were multiple harms that were caused and one of them was financial and that needs to be compensated for cash payments. And there are also systemic harms that were created. We need to change laws. We need to change how rules work because a lot of it flows out of anti-Black racism. We have to have everything because if you leave anything out it’s not for reparations.”

Sources shared with CBM that there will be a series of listening sessions with the CLBC to help educate Californians about the reparation bills and the workings of the legislative process.

The members of the CLBC are Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City); Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood); Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa); Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Ladera Heights); Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Alameda); Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena); Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson); Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D-Riverside); Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D- Los Angeles); Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood); Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento); and Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles).

SACRAMENTO, CA – Pasadena native, and longstanding California Supreme Court Justice, the Honorable Leondra R. Kruger was recognized by Assemblymember Chris Holden and the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) as the 41st Assembly District’s Unsung Hero for her outstanding achievement and positive impact on the community.  An Unsung Hero is defined as a person who makes a substantive yet unrecognized contribution — a person whose bravery is unknown or unacknowledged.

“Justice Kruger is a true trailblazer and someone that future generations can look to as an example of hard work, discipline and all-around excellence,” said Assemblymember Chris Holden.

The California Legislative Black Caucus established the Black History Month Unsung Hero Award to recognize individuals who have contributed selflessly to their respective districts. Justice Leondra R. Kruger received her bachelor’s degree with high honors from Harvard College and received her J.D. from Yale Law School. She then went on to serve as a law clerk to Judge David S. Tatel of the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, and to Justice John Paul Stevens of the United States Supreme Court. In November of 2014, she was appointed to the California State Supreme Court, confirmed by the Commission on Judicial Appointments on December 22, 2014, and sworn in by the Governor on January 5, 2015.

“By enduring all that it takes to become the second African American woman and third youngest person ever to be appointed to the California Supreme Court, she is paving the way for upcoming young and diverse leaders and showing them that they are capable of more than they ever imagined,” said Holden.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Bass Public Affairs (BPA) and The King for America Foundation hosted the first in a series of events focused on celebrating the long-shared history of collaboration between the African-American and Jewish American communities. Under the banner of the Yahweh Project BPA hopes to remind Black and Jewish communities of the historic achievements that resulted from their unified efforts.

The Black History Month luncheon, held at the National Press Club in Washington, DC, featured a discussion led by Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Thomas, senior pastor at Forestville New Redeemer Church in Forestville, Maryland. Dr. Thomas cautioned against Black Americans being misled by antisemitic misinformation from the past and present. “We have a number of groups pouring into our black churches to educate pastors in a way that is anti-Israel,” said Dr. Thomas. “We don’t need indoctrination, we need education.”

The Yahweh Project serves as a resource not only for pastors but also for educators, students, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Black and Jewish collaboration. In light of the increasing prevalence of antisemitism in the United States, dialogue centered on democracy and intentional efforts to foster unity on college campuses, in the media and in popular culture are imperative.

“After the horrific attacks of October 7th, we were deeply troubled by the antisemitic rhetoric emanating from some corners of the black community,” said Dee Dee Bass Wilbon, a partner at Bass Public Affairs. “Our mission is simple. We want to remind America that after Reconstruction, during the turn of the 20th Century, and amid some of the darkest days of the Civil Rights Movement, Jewish Americans marched, bled and died for the cause of justice on behalf of African Americans.”

“We are grateful to advance the goals of the Yahweh Project with initial support from the Ken and Frayda Levy Foundation and additional support from Cliff and Laurel Asness,” said Dr. Alveda King, founder of King for America.

Upcoming events include roundtable discussions at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, ecumenical forums with faith leaders, and a media campaign featuring ads in Black press outlets. For more information, visit BassPublicAffairs.com/theyahwehproject.

By Tanu Henry and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media 

On February 14 last week, Valentine’s Day, the Los Angeles City Council honored California’s first Black Secretary of State, Dr. Shirley N. Weber, with a heartfelt gesture of appreciation.

As part of its Black History Month celebration, the 15-member council declared February 14 “Shirley Weber Day” in Los Angeles.

“We celebrate the homecoming of an undeniable force who emerged from the streets of South L.A. to the epitome, showing strength and grit,” said Councilmember Curren Price, who represents the city’s 9th District where Weber grew up.

Price introduced the resolution to honor Weber earlier this month, which acknowledged the Secretary of State for her “lifelong commitment to service within the realm of civil rights, voting rights, public safety, protections for those with disabilities, food insecurity and legislation on education.”

Councilmember Heather Hutt, who represents the 10th District, called Weber “an extraordinary woman who has made history and she really continues to inspire us all.”

Latricia T. Mitchell, NAACP Los Angeles President, congratulated Weber and praised the city council for its decision.

“Her unwavering dedication to the California dream, where hope, opportunity, justice, and fairness thrive, serves as an inspiration to all,” wrote Mitchell in a statement. “With unwavering integrity, she consistently prioritizes the needs of the public over any political agenda, fulfilling her responsibilities with utmost commitment.”

Weber, born in Hope, Ark, in 1948, moved with her family to Los Angeles as a young girl. She grew up in the Pueblo Del Rio housing projects and earned her undergraduate, master’s and PhD from UCLA.

Weber, a former Assemblymember who represented the 79th District in San Diego, thanked the councilmembers, recognized how growing up in L.A. contributed to her success, urged the audience to help build communities where young people can be motivated, feel supported and thrive.

Weber also remembered her parents.

“My only regret in life is that my parents are not here to see what they did, what they made, and see the contributions they made not just to my life, but to the life of California,” she said. “I always pay tribute to them.”

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

The California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) and the California Black Chamber of Commerce (CALBCC)  celebrated Black-owned businesses from across the state at its 2024 Legislative Business Brunch, held at the Citizen Hotel in Sacramento on February 12.

The event, part of the CLBC’s Black History Month celebrations, honored the business owners for their outstanding achievements, impact on communities, enduring legacy, and high level of professionalism.

Jay King, CALBCC President and CEO, and CLBC Chair, Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City), and CLBC Vice Chair, Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood), hosted the event.

“I thank each and every one of you for being here for this grand occasion organized to celebrate and honor Black business owners from around the state of California for their hard work, dedication, perseverance, and tenacity,” King said. “These are but a few of the attributes that must be on display at all times for Black business to survive.”

This year’s Black History Month business awardees are: Flawless Cutz and Stylez (Bakersfield); Imperial Electric Service (Fresno); OC Podiatry (Orange); Seashells Realty Group (San Jose); SER Transportation Services (Sacramento);Chez Soul (Fairfield); Beauchamp Distributing Company (Compton); BLK Girl Greenhouse (Oakland); South LA Café (Los Angeles); D.R. Roberts Event Management (Oakland); Sal’s Gumbo Shack (Long Beach); Leading Edge Learning Center (Moreno Valley); Woody’s Bar-B-Que (Los Angeles); Urban Roots Brewery and Smokehouses (Sacramento); Detour Hair Studios and Earle’s Restaurant (Inglewood); and Spacebar Café  (La Mesa).

All of the awards were presented by King and members of the CLBC.

“As we gather here today, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to fostering an environment where Black businesses can thrive and continue to be meaningful to the economic landscape of California,” said Wilson, the chairperson of CLBC. “We continue to look forward to continuing our collaboration with the California Black Chamber of Commerce and stakeholders dedicated to empowering and uplifting Black-owned businesses.”

One of the oldest Black businesses in the state, Woods-Valentine Mortuary of Pasadena, received a special recognition for its longevity and contributions to its community. The mortuary was established by James and Annie Mae Woods in 1928 in the area now known as Old Pasadena.

Fred Valentine and his brothers were employed by the mortuary. Then, in 1958, Valentine and his wife, Arzella J. Valentine, purchased the business and renamed it Woods-Valentine.

Mr. Valentine passed away at the age of 98 in 2017. Their daughters Janyce Valentine and Gail Valentine-Taylor now operate the business with their 97-year-old mother, who was present at the brunch.

“I’ve known this family for about 40 years. I am so proud of this family,” said Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena), who represents Assembly District (AD) 41 where the Woods-Valentine business is located.

Holden presented the award to the Valentine family.

While growing up, Holden said he learned about the 96-year-old mortuary business through one of the most effective forms of advertising in the Black community: church hand-held cooling fans.

Holden reflected on how the fans, for decades, were an important medium for information and advertising in Black communities across the United States for businesses like insurance companies, funeral homes, law firms, car dealerships and more.

State Controller Malia M. Cohen was the keynote speaker, and she was presented with the CLBC’s Chair Award. Tara Lynn Gray, the Director of California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA), also delivered remarks.

Toks Omishakin, California Secretary of Transportation, was a guest.

King urged the business owners to continue to be exemplars and beacons of hope for other Black entrepreneurs and companies in the state.

“The business owners you see here have survived many obstacles and barriers, have been denied access to capital and other necessary resources to succeed, and have been told ‘no,’” King said. “But we say today, ‘thank you’ and ‘we appreciate you,’ with the hopes that they must carry the message: don’t quit and keep pushing.”

By Joe W. Bowers Jr.  | California Black Media

The ballot for the 2024 California presidential primary election, set for March 5 — commonly called “Super Tuesday in political media speak — features leading presidential candidates President Joe Biden (D) and former President Donald Trump (R). Black candidates for President include President R. Boddie (D), Eban Cambridge (D), Jasmine Sherman (Peace and Freedom), and Cornel West (Peace and Freedom).

Across California, voters will also be choosing candidates for one US Senate seat, 52 congressional seats, 80 State Assembly seats, and 20 State Senate seats. Additionally, there’s a statewide ballot measure, Proposition 1, which if passed, would allow the state to borrow $6.4 billion for mental health treatment beds and revamp the law that funds mental health services through a tax on millionaires.

Voters will discover that Black candidates are overrepresented on their ballots for State and Federal office. Although African Americans comprise 6.5% of California’s population, Black candidates are contesting for 11.5% of California’s US House seats, 23.8% of State Assembly seats and 30% of State Senate seats.

According to California Black Media (CBM), 53 Black candidates are participating in 32 of the 154 statewide elections. That’s about 21% of the races.

In eleven of these races, multiple Black candidates are competing. The party affiliations of these candidates include 42 Democrats, 7 Republicans, one Green Party, three Peace and Freedom Party and one from the American Independent Party. Among these candidates, 27 women are running for office – one for President, one for US Senate, 4 for Congress, 15 for State Assembly and 7 for State Senate. There are 27 men on the ballot – 3 for President, 8 for Congress, 9 for state Assembly and 7 for state Senate.

There is one Black candidate, Congressmember Barbara Lee (D-CA-12), running for the US Senate seat (both full and partial term) to succeed U.S. Sen. Laphonza Butler. If elected, Lee would be the third Black female U.S. Senator in state history. Despite lagging in both fundraising and the polls, she has consistently performed well in debates. Lee, has said throughout her political career that “representation matters.” If neither Lee nor Congressmember Katie Porter (D-CA-47), the leading female candidates, finishes in the top two for the general election, California would be without a female contending to be senator the first time in more than 30 years.

In the upcoming Congressional elections, 12 Black candidates are vying for 6 seats.

For Congressional District (CD) 6 (Elk Grove), Craig J. DeLuz (R), a member of the Robla School Board, is in the running along with 5 other candidates, including the current Congressmember, Ami Bera (D).

Kevin Lincoln (R), the Mayor of Stockton, is contesting for CD 9 (Stockton) against three other candidates, including the incumbent Congressmember, Josh Harder (D).

In CD 12 (Oakland), nine candidates are competing to succeed Lee. Among them, three are Black: Lateefah Simon (D), a nonprofit Foundation President; Andre Todd (D), a retired Navy officer and businessman; and Eric Wilson (D), an employee of a nonprofit organization.

Julie Lythcott-Haims (D), a Palo Alto councilmember, educator, lawyer, and parent, is among the 11 candidates running for CD 16 (Atherton) to replace the retiring Anna Eshoo (D).

Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D), one of the three incumbent Black Congressmembers from California, is seeking re-election in CD 37 (Los Angeles). John Thompson Parker (Peace and Freedom) is the other Black candidate in this race, which has a total of four contenders.

In CD 47 (Los Angeles), four out of five candidates are Black. The incumbent representative is Maxine Waters (D). The other Black candidates are Gregory Edward Jackson Cheadle (D), a program evaluator; Chris B. Wiggins (D), a state caucus chair; and Steve Williams (R), a small business owner.

Out of 40 State Senate seats, 20 are up for election this year. Five of these seats are being sought by 14 Black candidates.

In Senate District (SD) 3 (Napa), five candidates are competing for an open seat as the incumbent, Bill Dodd (D), is term-limited in 2024. The Black candidates in this race are Jackie Elward (D), a councilmember, educator, and mother, and Jimih Jones (R), an automotive parts advisor.

SD 7 (Oakland) has six candidates running to succeed Nancy Skinner (D), who is termed out at the end of 2024. The Black candidates are Jovanka Beckles (D), an AC Transit Director, and Sandre R Swanson (D), a youth foundation president and former Assemblymember.

Jason O’Brien (D), a police detective and businessman, is among four candidates vying for an open seat in SD 29 (San Bernadino).

Eight candidates are on the ballot for SD 35 (Inglewood) to replace the term-limited Sen. Steven Bradford (D). The six Black candidates are Michelle Chambers (D), a community justice advocate; Lamar Lyons (D), a financial consultant; Alex Monteiro (D), a Councilmember and nonprofit director; Laura Richardson (D), a former Congressmember, businesswoman, and housing advocate; and Jennifer Trichelle-Marie Williams (D), an accountant and small businessowner.

Dr. Akilah Weber (D), an Assemblymember and medical doctor is a candidate for the open SD 39 (San Diego) seat being vacated by Sen. Toni Atkins, former Senate President pro Tempore. She is running against one other candidate.

Out of 80 Assembly seats on the ballot, 24 Black candidates are contesting for 19 seats.

In Assembly District (AD) 6 (Sacramento), 10 candidates are on the ballot to succeed Kevin McCarty (D), who is running for Mayor of Sacramento. Among them, Emmanual Amanfor (D), a Sacramento Housing Commissioner, is the sole Black candidate.

Porsche Middleton (D) is contesting for AD 7 (Citrus Heights) against two others, including incumbent Josh Hoover (R).

In AD 11 (Suisun City), incumbent Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D) is seeking re-election. She faces three opponents, one of whom is Black: Wanda Wallis, a real estate agent.

Rhodesia Ransom (D), a businessowner and mother, is running for AD 13 (Stockton) against two other candidates.

Monica E. Wilson (D), an Antioch City Councilmember, is contesting for AD 15 (Concord) against three opponents.

Incumbent Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D) is seeking re-election for AD 18 (Oakland). Among her three opponents, one is Black: Andre Sandford, a housing program manager.

Waymond Fermon (D), a peace officer and Indio councilmember, is running for the open seat in AD 36 (Antelope Valley) against six other candidates.

Phlunté Riddle (D), a public safety commissioner, is on the ballot for AD 41 (Pasadena). The incumbent, Chris Holden (D), who is term-limited, is running for the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. Three other candidates are also on the ballot.

Carmenita Helligar (D) is one of eight candidates for AD 44 (Burbank), as incumbent Laura Friedman is running for the U.S. House.

Jamie Swain (D), a truck driver, is running for AD 47 (High Desert) against two opponents, including incumbent Greg Wallis (R).

In AD 50 (San Bernardino), DeJonae Marie Shaw, a licensed vocational nurse, is running against two other candidates. The incumbent, Eloise Reyes (D), is running for State Senate.

Shannel Pittman (Green Party), a national diversity chair, is running for AD 52 (San Gabriel Valley) against nine other candidates. The incumbent, Wendy Carrillo (D), is running for Los Angeles City Council.

Isaac G. Bryan (D), the incumbent Assemblymember for AD 55 (Ladera Heights), has one opponent.

In AD 57 (Los Angeles), five candidates are running to replace Reggie Jones-Sawyer, who is term-limited and running for Los Angeles City Council. The three Black candidates are Greg Akili, an educator and nonprofit director; Sade Elhawary, an education and community organizer; and Tara Perry, a reparations advocate.

Corey A Jackson (D), the incumbent Assemblymember for AD 60 (Riverside), is running for re-election against two opponents, one of whom is Black: Ron Edwards (R), a small business owner.

Tina Simone McKinnor (D), the incumbent Assemblymember for AD 61 (Inglewood), is running for re-election against one opponent.

Mike Gipson (D), the incumbent Assemblymember for AD 65 (Compton), is running for re-election.

Dom Jones (D), a businesswoman and TV personality, is running for AD-72 (Huntington Beach) against incumbent Diane Dixon (R).

LaShae Sharp-Collins (D), a county education professional, is running for AD 79 (La Mesa). The incumbent, Akilah Weber, is running for State Senate. Two other candidates are also on the ballot.

All active registered voters in California will receive a vote-by-mail ballot. Mailing of ballots began Feb. 5 and drop-off locations opened on Feb. 6. The last day to register to vote is Feb. 20. Vote centers for early in-person voting open on Feb. 24. Vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received by March 12.

In California, the order of races on ballots goes from local to federal, and the state’s primaries have a top-two system, meaning the top two vote getters in a given race advance to the general election, regardless of political party.