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Assemblymember Weber Assumes Leadership of Legislative Black Caucus

Assemblymember Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D. (D-San Diego) assumed the chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) today. The CLBC, which addresses policy and budgetary issues affecting black Californians, consists of ten African American members of the Legislature, including two Senators and eight Assemblymembers.

 “I am extraordinarily grateful to my CLBC colleagues for their trust and support as we launch into a new and challenging legislative session,” Weber said. “Now more than ever, the CLBC has a vital role in ensuring that the needs of the African American community are addressed by lawmakers.  Aside from tackling the persistent challenges of poverty, educational inequity, over-incarceration and underemployment, we are faced with leadership in Washington that fosters a climate of hatred and violence against minorities, women and immigrants. This caucus will join in solidarity with our colleagues in the Latino, API, LGBT and Women’s caucuses against this destructive trend.”

Weber, who was elected by her CLBC colleagues last fall, served as vice chair for the past two years and succeeds Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena) in the role of caucus leader. She is joined on the CLBC leadership team by Senator Steven Bradford as vice chair, Assemblymember Kamlager - Dove as secretary, and Assemblymember Jim Cooper as treasurer.

The CLBC was successful on a number of its policy priorities during the 2017-2018 Legislative Session, including leave for parenting students, prohibiting unnecessary prosecution of children under 12 and securing $300 million to assist underachieving students.In addition to coordinating legislative efforts affecting the African American community, the CLBC makes recommendations to the Governor on the annual budget proposal, sponsors forums and raises scholarship funds.

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