John,
Kamala Harris is set to make history as the first Black woman vice president -- which means her Senate seat will soon be open.
Without Kamala Harris, there are no Black women in the Senate at all.
That's why we're calling on Governor Gavin Newsom to appoint a Black woman to fill that seat. And like the California Legislative Black Caucus, we're pushing for the appointment of either Rep. Karen Bass or Rep. Barbara Lee as candidates for the position.
It's on us to make sure the Senate does its job of properly representing the people -- that's why we're asking you to join us in calling on Governor Newsom to appoint a Black woman to fill this Senate seat. Sign the petition >>
Appointing a Black woman to this seat is nonnegotiable -- this
must be done. Our government is about representation of the people, and as we saw in this election, Black people, and more specifically Black women, are constantly showing up for democracy.
If there is not a single Black woman in the Senate, then the Senate is simply not a proper representation of the people.
The California Legislative Black Caucus has already reached out to Governor Newsom's office to discuss this appointment,
but he has yet to meet with them or comment on what his plans are in terms of the seat. We're going to make it clear to Governor Newsom that appointing a Black woman to this seat is nonnegotiable.
Tell Governor Newsom to appoint a Black woman to replace Kamala Harris. The more people that sign, the louder our collective voice.
Rep. Bass has been Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus since 2018 and co-authored the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2020 earlier this year. During her time in the California state Senate and as a House member, Rep. Lee has been a constant advocate for Black people and women.
All in all, these Black women are overwhelmingly qualified, and most importantly, they're dedicated in the fight for Black liberation. Their leadership and ability to form coalitions and act on pressing issues is proven in their records --
without this type of leadership in the Senate from Black women, how are Black people supposed to feel counted and represented?
Like we saw in the recent election, the Democratic party has become reliant on Black people, particularly Black women. If it weren't for Black voters and organizers across the country, we would have seen a very different electoral outcome. If Governor Newsom is serious about his role in the Democratic party, he will deliver to his base and answer our call to appoint a Black woman to the Senate.
Let's make one thing clear to Governor Newsom: This is not a one-way street. We showed up, and now, it's his turn to do the same.
Sign the petition: Tell Governor Newsom he must appoint Rep. Karen Bass or Rep. Barbara Lee to fill the California Senate seat.
John, together, we'll get the Senate seat that rightfully belongs to a Black woman.
In love and solidarity,
Patrisse Cullors
Co-founder and Executive Director
Black Lives Matter Global Network
Melina Abdullah
Co-founder
Black Lives Matter Los Angeles
