Dear John,

As we welcome summer, I’m reminded that June is a month of celebration, reflection, and commitment—to education, economic equity, homeownership, and the power of community. Whether we’re helping families save for college, honoring Flag Day, or supporting local food justice, we’re building a California rooted in opportunity and inclusion.

✊🏽 Honoring Juneteenth: A Legacy of Freedom and Action

June 19 – Juneteenth National Independence Day
On Juneteenth, we commemorate the date in 1865 when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to enforce the emancipation of enslaved people. Juneteenth marks the true beginning of freedom for all Black Americans and remains a powerful reminder of our ongoing responsibility to confront injustice wherever it exists.
Juneteenth is more than history—it’s a call to remember, reflect, and recommit to building a future rooted in equity and dignity.

To continue honoring this day, consider:
📚 Explore the history of Juneteenth from the National Museum of African American History & Culture
✊🏾 Support Black-led organizations through Color Of Change or Equal Justice Initiative

As we honor the past, let’s keep fighting for the future—one where freedom, justice, and opportunity belong to everyone.

📣🐻 Team Update from CADEM Convention!

I had an incredible time at the California Democratic Party Convention—connecting with thousands of delegates, activists, and party leaders from across our great state.

It was an honor to take the main stage on the morning of May 31st and speak about the future we’re building together—one rooted in economic opportunity, equity, and a commitment to every Californian. You can watch the entire speech at the link below.

From early-morning meetups to late-night karaoke, our team showed up with energy and heart.

Thank you to everyone who visited our booth, joined a pop-up meet & greet, or helped spread the word. The road to 2026 starts now—and I’m excited to keep moving forward with all of you. 💙

🩺 CalOptima Health: Care That Moves Orange County

CalOptima Health serves over 932,000 low-income children, adults, seniors, and people with disabilities in Orange County through Medi-Cal, OneCare, and PACE. Their whole-person care model keeps communities healthy and independent—offering over 6,500 van rides each month to their Garden Grove site.

As Chair of CHFFA, I’m proud to support providers like CalOptima that are advancing health equity and access for all Californians.

💰 Planning for Tomorrow

Celebrating 529 College Savings Day
On National 529 College Savings Day, I joined forces with our beloved Diploma Dog to raise awareness about ScholarShare 529, California’s official college savings plan. Whether you’re saving a little each month or setting up an account for the first time, ScholarShare gives families the tools to invest in their children’s dreams—debt-free. The future of our most vital resource, our youth, deserves nothing less.

🎓🐾 Learn more and open an account at ScholarShare529.com »

🌿 Growing Green Futures

Crop Swap LA: Urban Farming with Purpose
In South LA, what began in Jamiah Hargins’ backyard is now a globally recognized food justice movement. Crop Swap LA is transforming vacant yards into microfarms that feed 40 families per week, create green jobs, and recycle thousands of gallons of water. With 20 employees and 10 thriving gardens, they’re proving that sustainable solutions start locally—and grow globally.
🌱 Support their mission or donate today at CropSwapLA.org »

🏠 Opening Doors to Homeownership

VCCDC’s Homeownership Conference Returns – June 28
Since 2001, the Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) has helped thousands of low- to moderate-income families achieve the dream of homeownership. Now, after five years, they’re returning in person for the 13th Annual Ventura County Homeownership Conference—a day filled with resources, expert advice, and inspiration for future homeowners.

📅 Friday, June 28, 2025
🕙 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 2231 Sturgis Road, Oxnard, CA
🎉 Free admission, free lunch, and family-friendly giveaways!

Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to take the next step, this event is designed to empower and inform.
🏡 Register and learn more at VCCDC.org »

🛠️ Building Futures in Carson

Celebrating the Grand Opening of the Carpenters Training Center
Congratulations to the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters on the grand opening of the Local 323 & Carson Carpenters Training Center! This state-of-the-art facility is a major investment in workforce development, creating pathways to high-quality, union careers in the skilled trades.

Centers like this strengthen our economy, support local communities, and ensure California continues to lead in infrastructure, housing, and clean energy projects. Thank you to the Carpenters for championing the next generation of builders and tradespeople!

You can learn more about the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters and enrolling in their apprenticeship program through their website.

💙 Help Us Finish Strong Before June 30th

The June 30th  fundraising deadline is a critical milestone for our campaign. Your support helps us meet our goals, stay competitive, and continue fighting for a California that puts people over politics.

If you believe in responsible leadership, economic opportunity, and a brighter future for all Californians—now is the time to make your voice heard.

👉 Contribute today and help us build momentum before the deadline.

💬 Closing Thoughts

From planting seeds of sustainability to strengthening financial futures, June reminds us that real, lasting change begins in our communities—in every act of service, every voice raised for justice, and every bold idea turned into action.

In a time when headlines can feel heavy and the path ahead uncertain, I continue to find strength in the people of California. You show up—for your neighbors, for your families, and for the future we all share. It’s your resilience, compassion, and courage that keep our state moving forward.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Your voice matters. Your advocacy matters. And your hope is not just powerful—it’s necessary. Together, let’s keep building a California that reflects our highest ideals: equity, opportunity, and dignity for all.

In Peace & Partnership,

Fiona Ma, CPA
California State Treasurer
🔗 Visit my official website »