As you get ready for your weekend I wanted to send you a quick message of strength and solidarity. I am encouraged as I join the rallies to end police violence and recognize that Black Lives Matter—and see the numbers, the diversity, and the youth. It's up to you—and each of us—to keep this going until the change we need is secure.
There is a charter amendment in the works in San Francisco
now
to remove the minimum staffing levels for the police force—this has been suggested many times before—but now could become real. In Los Angeles $250M was taken from the police budget and redirected to other community needs. This is not nearly enough, but a start. With your action we can make this real. Join a rally, write a letter, talk to a neighbor, and wear your mask.
Along with hope, I also want to recognize how hard it is, and the sacrifices that will be made along the way. Sean Monterrosa was killed in San Leandro during an action against police violence—a victim of police shooting. Sean, a fellow caregiver and educator, worked at the Boys and Girls Club in San Francisco. A rally was held for him today. Bring his name to Candlestick Park tomorrow.
As further encouragement that your organizing and advocacy makes a difference, see the press release on the $1Million in funds allocated to Family Child Care—thanks to the hard work of Family Child Care advocates—and community leaders who listen. See the press release, Saturday rally, and next Wednesday's CPAC General Meeting announcement below.