John — as we recognize and celebrate Black History Month, I want to reflect on what it means here in California.
Black Californians have long been at the forefront of movements for justice, dignity, and collective care — often without recognition, yet always with courage. Their leadership shaped our labor movement, our fight for civil rights, and our vision for what a more just future can look like.
Here is a list of my favorite reads by Black female authors who have informed my own personal politics and worldview:
- Angela Davis: Are Prisons Obsolete
- Tricia Hersey: Rest Is Resistance
- Yaa Gyasi: Homegoing
- Toni Morrison: Beloved
- Eve Ewing: Original Sins: The (Mis)education of Black and Native Children and the Construction of American Racism
But, honoring this history can’t be limited to one month. It asks us to keep learning, listening, and showing up year-round to understand the lived experiences of Black individuals and support the work being done by people in Congress today by advocating for reparations to the descendents of enslaved people and prison abolition advocates.
In solidarity,
Angela for Congress
