EAST BAY
U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Oakland, met with small business leaders last week to discuss the importance of economic growth not only for their own businesses but for the communities they serve, and how legislators can support them.
Lee also met with Black community leaders to discuss the disparities Black women and girls face in education, health care, labor and employment, housing and more and how coalitions can come together to address these inequities.
“As a former small business owner, I know that women, minority, and LGBT-owned businesses are critical assets to our economic growth and empowerment of our community,” Lee said at the small business roundtable.
“Therefore, we must continue fighting for resources and policies that strengthen small businesses, which are the backbone of our economy, particularly in areas like the Hegenberger and Fruitvale corridor, where many of our Black and Brown businesses exist.”
At the panel discussion titled “Together We Rise: Advocating for Black Women and Girls,” Lee commented on the advancements Black women and girls have made in recent decades but said more needs to be done.
“Today, Black women and girls are making history in politics, business, education and more. However, it remains critical that we still be aware and fight for what needs to be done to achieve true equity and justice. I am very proud to participate in this conversation with such an esteemed panel.”
Lee represents more than 750,000 people across Alameda County in the state’s Congressional 12th District, which includes sections of Berkeley, Albany, Oakland, Piedmont, Alameda, Emeryville and San Leandro.
— U.S. Rep. Lee’s office
RICHMOND
U.S. Rep. Garamendi honors 42 district women of the year
At his 11th annual Women of the Year event, U.S. Rep. John Garamendi, D-Richmond, on Oct. 23 honored 42 women from the state’s Congressional 8th District who are leaders and visionaries in their communities (see their photos and biographies online at bit.ly/3Uu3D3q). These honorees have all made significant contributions to society through public service, business, education and the local economy.
“Every year, I have the privilege of celebrating the remarkable achievements and contributions of outstanding women in California’s 8th District,” Garamendi said. “These leaders come from diverse backgrounds, and each has had a profound impact on their communities and those around them. It is a privilege to honor their efforts.
“Their commitment and passion for service merit this recognition, and through this award their contributions will be preserved and documented in the official Congressional Record in Washington, D.C.”
— U.S. Rep. Garamendi’s office
ALBANY
Transportation plan to guide infrastructure development
Officials with the city of Albany would like to thank everyone who joined them Oct. 24 for their Active Transportation Plan open house. This new plan will guide the development of infrastructure projects and programs to support safe and comfortable bicycling, walking and rolling in Albany. Tose who weren’t able to attend can visit bit.ly/AlbanyATP online to provide their input online and get more information.
— city of Albany
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